What is "HomeGroup Provider" in my Windows 8 service list? And how is "HomeGroup Provider" service related to provsvc.dll?

"HomeGroup Provider" is a Windows 8 service that Performs networking tasks associated with configuration and maintenance of homegroups. If this service is stopped or disabled, your computer will be unable to detect other homegroups and your homegroup might not work properly. It is recommended that you keep this service running. "HomeGroup Provider" service is provided by provsvc.dll program file.

Detailed information on "HomeGroup Provider" service:

Service name: HomeGroupProvider
Display name: HomeGroup Provider
Execution command: C:\Windows\System32\svchost.exe -k LocalServiceNetworkRestricted
Dependencies: {netprofm, fdrespub, fdphost}

"HomeGroup Provider" service is provided by a program called: provsvc.dll:

Name: provsvc.dll
Location: C:\Windows\system32\provsvc.dll
Description: Windows HomeGroup
File version: 6.2.9200.16384 (win8_rtm.120725-1247)
Size: 394752 bytes
Modified: 7/26/2012 3:07:00 AM UTC

Disabling "HomeGroup Provider" service may cause issues when running Windows 8 system.

⇒"svchost.exe -k LocalServiceNetworkRestricted" Services on Windows 8

⇒⇒Windows 8 Services Tutorials