Rumor: Windows XP SP3 Will Get More Vista Features

Published: October 10, 2007

by Alex Woodie

The hubbub about the Internet this week was that the third service pack for Microsoft Windows XP will contain more features backported from Windows Vista than previously disclosed by Microsoft.

It has been known for some time that Windows XP SP3, which was delayed a year ago, would contain some features that debuted in Windows Vista, namely support for Network Access Protection (NAP), the new security technique that will only allow fully patched and secured PCs from joining a Windows network.

But according to reports, an outfit by the name of NeoSmart Technologies posted to the Internet last weekend details of some additional Vista-like features that will be included in Windows XP SP3, such as new kernel-level encryption algorithms and a new activation model that doesn't require a product key.

If true, these changes would coincide with other efforts by Microsoft to extend the life of Windows XP. Last week, the software giant announced it has extended OEM sales of Windows XP by five months (and longer in developing countries). The company also unveiled a new licensing program aimed at making easier for users of pirated copies of Windows XP to get authentic copies through standard channels.

Microsoft's Windows Service Pack Road Map Web page still lists Windows XP SP3 arriving sometime in the first half of 2008.

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