The Windows XP Security Guide v2.0 describes the features and recommended settings for Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2). The Guide includes thoroughly tested templates for security settings for Windows Firewall, which replaces Internet Connection Firewall (ICF). Information is provided about closing ports, Remote Procedure Call (RPC) communications, memory protection, e-mail handling, Web download controls, spyware controls, and much more.

Although the default installation of Windows XP is quite secure, it is important to bear in mind the trade-offs that exist between security, usability, and the functionality of the clients in your environment. A thorough understanding of these trade-offs places your organization in a position to strengthen the deployment of Windows XP to include a significantly higher level of security than provided by the default installation.

View: Update to the Windows XP Security Guide
News source: Microsoft