Task Scheduler

Task Scheduler (formerly Scheduled Tasks) is a system utility that was initially introduced in Microsoft Plus! 95 as an OS enhancement called System Agent and then included in subsequent versions of Windows ever since. It allows users to run various automated tasks like launching programs or making a custom dialog box pop-up on the screen at pre-defined times or after certain set times. Originally introduced as a standalone application, it turned into a MMC snap-in in Windows 2000.

Before Task Scheduler, a similar application called "Command Scheduler" was already available as part of the Windows NT 3.1 Resource Kit, which also allows to run a task at a specific time. It also allows creating tasks for remote computers. Upon launch, it requires to start the Schedule service.

Many built-in background processes that run in Microsoft Windows have associated automated tasks that are enabled by default to ensure that the operating system runs properly.