IP Helper (iphlpsvc) Service Defaults in Windows 8

Provides tunnel connectivity using IPv6 transition technologies (6to4, ISATAP, Port Proxy, and Teredo), and IP-HTTPS. If this service is stopped, the computer will not have the enhanced connectivity benefits that these technologies offer.

Default Settings

Startup type: Automatic
Display name:IP Helper
Service name:iphlpsvc
Service type:share
Error control:normal
Object:LocalSystem
Path:%SystemRoot%\System32\svchost.exe -k NetSvcs
File:%SystemRoot%\System32\iphlpsvc.dll
Registry key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\iphlpsvc
Privileges:
  • SeCreateGlobalPrivilege
  • SeImpersonatePrivilege
  • SeLoadDriverPrivilege
  • SeTcbPrivilege

Default Behavior

IP Helper is a Win32 service. In Windows 8 it is starting automatically during the operating system startup. Then the IP Helper service runs as LocalSystem in a process of svchost.exe, sharing it with other services. If IP Helper fails to start, the error details are added to Windows 8 error log. When the operating system startup is complete, the user is being notified that the iphlpsvc service hasn't been started.

Dependencies

IP Helper can't start, if any service from the list below is disabled or not available:

If IP Helper is disabled, the Network Connectivity Assistant service will not be started and initialized.

Restore Default Startup Configuration of IP Helper

Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which IP Helper depends are configured by default and function properly. See the list of dependencies above.

1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

2. Copy the commands below, paste them into the command window and press ENTER:

sc config iphlpsvc start= auto
sc start iphlpsvc

3. Close the command window and restart the computer.

The iphlpsvc service is using the iphlpsvc.dll file that is located in the C:\Windows\System32 directory. If the file is removed or corrupted, read this article to restore its original version from Windows 8 installation media.