SQL Server Agent

SQL Server Agent is a component of Microsoft SQL Server which schedules jobs and handles other automated tasks. It runs as a Windows service so it can start automatically when the system boots or it can be started manually.
Typical system tasks performed include scheduling maintenance plans, handling SQL [Server Reporting Services|Reporting Services] subscriptions and performing log shipping sub-tasks. User tasks, such as scheduling some T-SQL or command line statement are also common.
SQLAgent has support for operators and alerts, so that administrators can be notified, e.g. by email.