Windows XP contains many built-in features to support computer networking, even without a service pack. However, several new networking features and enhancements are available in Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). This page describes Windows Firewall, IPv6 support and other interesting networking functionality in Windows XP SP2.
Windows Firewall is a free network firewall application for Windows XP, introduced in Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). Windows Firewall replaces the older Internet Connection Firewall and offers significant improvements over its predecessor.
IPv6 is the next-generation Internet Protocol that changes the way IP addresses and routing work. IPv6 coexists with and will someday replace the current IPv4 standard. In Windows XP SP2, support exists to allow IPv6 computers to work with the Windows Firewall and with Network Address Translation (NAT).
3. Wireless Provisioning Services (WPS)
WPS is a new feature in Windows XP SP2 designed to simplify the process of connecting to public Wi-Fi hotspots. Wireless Provisioning Services include support for the initial creation, payment, and renewal of subscriptions with commercial hotspot providers.
4. Windows Peer-to-Peer Networking
Windows XP Service Pack 2 also contains a new software component to suppport developing peer-to-peer applications. This component provides an Application Programming Interface (API) that allows engineers to develop P2P applications that communicate over TCP/IP between Windows computers.
5. New "Netstat" Option
In Windows XP, the "netstat" command line tool provides TCP/IP and Ethernet network information useful to a system administrator. In Windows XP SP2, a new "-b" command line option has been added to make it is easier to identify which pieces of software are using TCP and UDP ports.
