Applies To: Windows Server 2008 R2 Current Version: 4.0 An update package for BITS is now available for Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and for Microsoft Windows XP. This update is a required component for Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager 2007 and for Microsoft Security Essentials. BITS is also used in other Microsoft products, such as System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM), and third party products (see Additonal Resources).
BITS is a protocol that transfers files between a client and a server. BITS provides a simple way to reliably transfer files over HTTP or over HTTPS. BITS supports both downloads and uploads. Unlike other protocols that transfer files in the foreground, BITS transfers files in the background by default. Background transfers use only idle network bandwidth in order to preserve the user’s interactive experience with other network applications, such as Windows Internet Explorer. Foreground transfers are also supported. BITS has two role services:
tonysoper_MSFT edited Revision 3. Comment: added wikipedia article link for 3rd party dependencies