So I finally took some time out this past weekend to have a hard look at the new version of Internet Connection Firewall that will come with Service Pack 2 for XP.
It's good. Actually, it's better than I dared hoped for.
My fears that it will be too complicated for the average home user are completely unfounded, if this beta version is a fair representation of what will be in the shipping service pack. I am able to run Everquest, Star Wars Galaxies, and other online games without all the configuration hassles that prompt users to disable similar firewalling products from other companies. It has just the right mix of features so it does an effective job without complicating the lives of the users.
Well done, Microsoft. Now ship it already!