The impending release of Service Pack 2 for Windows XP has prompted Microsoft to reveal a list of programs that may experience problems with the massive update. Included on the rather extensive list are quite a few games, such as Warcraft III and Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic.

Microsoft stated that most of the problems are associated with the new built-in Windows firewall, where users must approve programs that attempt to make Internet connections. However, some programs use data pages that the firewall automatically blocks, as they are common attack routes for hackers. A work-around is built into the firewall software, as well as the ability for advanced users to simply turn it off.