BranchCache (PeerDistSvc) Service Defaults in Windows 8
This service caches network content from peers on the local subnet.
The BranchCache service does not exist in:
- Windows 8 Core
- Windows 8.1 Core
- Windows 8.1 Update 1 Core
Default Settings
| Startup type: | Manual |
| Display name: | BranchCache |
| Service name: | PeerDistSvc |
| Service type: | share |
| Error control: | normal |
| Object: | NT AUTHORITY\NetworkService |
| Path: | %SystemRoot%\System32\svchost.exe -k PeerDist |
| File: | %SystemRoot%\system32\peerdistsvc.dll |
| Registry key: | HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\PeerDistSvc |
| Privileges: |
|
Default Behavior
BranchCache is a Win32 service. In Windows 8 it will not be started until the user starts it. When the BranchCache service is started, it runs as NT AUTHORITY\NetworkService in a process of svchost.exe, sharing it with other services. If BranchCache 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 PeerDistSvc service hasn't been started.
Dependencies
BranchCache can't start, if the HTTP Service is disabled or not available.
Restore Default Startup Configuration of BranchCache
Before you begin doing this, make sure that all the services on which BranchCache 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 command below, paste it into the command window and press ENTER:
sc config PeerDistSvc start= demand
3. Close the command window and restart the computer.
The PeerDistSvc service is using the peerdistsvc.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.