Microsoft has made significant changes to its peer-to-peer (P2P) network services in the latest version of their operating system, Windows 11. In the latest Insider Preview Build 25951 version released to the Canary channel, Microsoft quietly removed some P2P network services, as reported by tech expert Xeno.
Windows 11 Removes P2P Network Services
According to Xeno's findings, Microsoft silently deleted several DLL files associated with P2P networking in Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 25951. The removed files include those used for distributed routing and P2P services. Notably, three specific services have disappeared:
- Peer Name Resolution Protocol
- Peer Networking Grouping
- Peer Networking Identity Manager
These services date back more than 20 years and have been a part of Windows for a long time. The Peer Name Resolution Protocol (PNRP), for instance, originated in the Windows XP era as a solution to certain DNS shortcomings. However, it's important to note that these changes observed in the Canary channel may not necessarily be included in the final official version of Windows 11.
Windows 11 and P2P Networking
Windows 11 has been gradually moving away from P2P networking, with users reporting a sudden loss of networked computers from Windows Explorer. This shift might be driven by Microsoft's focus on enhancing privacy and security. Direct communication between devices on the same network, which is a characteristic of P2P networking, can expose users to security risks. By reducing its reliance on P2P networking, Microsoft aims to offer a more secure and private operating system.
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Windows Update Delivery Optimization
One area where Windows 11 has made significant changes to its P2P network services is the Windows Update Delivery Optimization feature. This feature allows Windows devices to download updates and apps from other devices on the internet or the local network, reducing the strain on Microsoft's servers and potentially speeding up the update process. However, it also raises privacy and security concerns as it involves sharing files with other devices on the network.
To manage the Windows Update Delivery Optimization feature in Windows 11:
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- Select Delivery Optimization.
- Make sure "Allow downloads from other PCs" is turned off.
By turning off this feature, users can mitigate potential privacy and security risks associated with P2P networking in Windows 11.
Networking in Windows 11 Workgroups
Privacy and Security in Windows 11
Windows 11 introduces several new privacy and security features to protect user data and provide a safe computing experience. Some of these features include:
- Diagnostic Data Settings: Users can configure the diagnostic data settings to the lowest level for their edition of Windows, thereby minimizing the data shared with Microsoft.
- App Permissions: Windows 11 allows users to control which apps have access to their microphone, camera, and other sensitive data through the app permissions settings.
- Windows Update Settings: Users can choose how updates are delivered and control whether their device shares update files with other devices on the internet or the local network.
By leveraging these privacy and security features in Windows 11, users can protect their devices against potential privacy and security risks associated with P2P networking.
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Final Words
Microsoft Windows 11 is discreetly eliminating certain P2P network services to prioritize security and privacy. While P2P networking can be useful for tasks like file sharing and streaming, it also presents privacy and security risks. Windows 11's move away from P2P networking aims to safeguard user data and provide a secure computing experience. Additionally, users can enhance their privacy and security by implementing the recommended settings and features in Windows 11.
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