Introduction

Connectivity between Windows XP Professional computers and other networks (inclusive of the Internet and other computers) is provided in a variety of ways. Windows XP computers utilize a variety of tools, applications, and protocols for connecting to networks. This chapter reviews a wide variety of these components, and how to install, configure, or manage them:

• The TCP/IP protocol suite

• Dial-up networking

• Remote Desktop

• Remote Assistance

• Internet Information Services (IIS)

• Internet Connection Firewall/Windows Firewall

• Internet Explorer

Not only do we explore each of these components, but we look at their features and dependencies as they exist within the Windows XP Professional operating system.