The Windows Audio Endpoint Builder (AudioEndpointBuilder) service manages audio devices for the Windows Audio service. If this service is stopped, audio devices and effects do not function properly. The term endpoint device refers to a hardware device at one end of a data path that originates or terminates at an application program. Examples of audio endpoint devices are speakers, headphones, microphones, and CD players.

The audio system keeps track of endpoint devices and dynamic changes in the configuration of audio hardware that has jack-presence detection. The system enumerates an endpoint device that remains plugged in. When the user unplugs an endpoint device, the system ceases to enumerate it. This feature improves the reliability of the audio system, giving more predictable capture and playback experiences across different devices.

This service is installed by default in Windows 7, and its startup type is Automatic. The service is installed by default in Windows Server 2008 R2, and its startup type is Manual.

When the Windows Audio Endpoint Builder service is started in its default configuration, it logs on by using the Local System account.

The Windows Audio Endpoint Builder service is dependent upon the following system component:

• Plug and Play

The following system component is dependent upon the Windows Audio Endpoint Builder service:

• Windows Audio