Microsoft has released the latest and final service pack for the old and faithful Windows XP. The Service Pack 3 or SP3 is intended to be a collection of previously-released fixes and product enhancements, as well as a few new features that are unique to this release.<\/p>\n
When talking about “new” feature for SP3, do not expect a dramatic feature. That what Vista is here for. See the list and you will know.<\/p>\n
Network Access Protection compatibility. <\/strong>Announced years ago, this feature allows Windows XP machines to interact with the NAP feature in Windows Server 2008. This functionality is built into the RTM version of Windows Vista as well.<\/p>\n
Product Key-less install option. <\/strong>As with Windows Vista, new XP with SP3 installs can proceed without entering a product key during Setup.<\/p>\n
Kernel Mode Cryptographics Module. <\/strong>A new kernel module that “encapsulates several different cryptographic algorithms,” according to Microsoft.<\/p>\n
“Black hole” router detection algorithm. <\/strong>XP gains the ability to ignore network routers that incorrectly drop certain kinds of network packets. This, too, is a feature of Windows Vista.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n