http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=842242

Microsoft's list

thats the link for the list of programs that xp sp2 will more then likely break.

roving cowboy

I wouldn't touch sp2 with a 10 foot pole, after what I've read about it.

That list is based on software that Windows Firewall will block... theoretically not a problem if you just disable Windows Firewall (I know mine is, because I'm running a reliable software firewall) lol.

Yeah I would not trust the xp firewall. Not only because it's made by microsoft, and because half of the functions don't work, but simply because it's built into the OS and the chances are big that "everyone" uses it. So there's bigger chances of exploits. For example, you open a virus, and it can easly disable the firewall then do whatever it has to do. But if you have a 3rd party firewall that is harder for a virus to do.

But I use win2k so I don't have to worry about XP issues. Win2k is still unsecure if left outside a router but internally it's safe as long as I don't open a virus on the network. And with a firewall installed my security is increased anyway. I have not had any problems with win2k. I had to clean install like 2 or 3 times that I remember and one of them was my fault... actually 2 of them was my fault. (fooling around with something and crashing it so it won't boot).

Haha. True. But I've read that the XP Firewall turns itself off if you install a Third-Party Firewall and it detects it. I've actually got the network install of it from Microsoft, and I'm going to be installing it to my local machine, so that I can see any wierd quirks and be prepared from those members of my family and friends that I KNOW will be calling. lol.