Most of the functions of Windows XP SP3 are borrowed from Vista.

Windows XP SP3 Draws Most Features from Vista

Windows XP SP3 includes some patch software that can give Windows XP some of the characteristics of Windows Vista.

According to foreign media reports, researchers at NeoSmart said that contrary to popular belief, Windows XP SP3 will add some new features to the operating system, not just patch software. Most of these new features are borrowed from Windows Vista.

Windows XP SP3 draws on Vista's product activation model, which means that a product key will no longer be required during installation. This feature will be welcomed by enterprise IT managers who often need to install operating systems on hundreds or even thousands of PCs.

Vista's Network Access Protection module will also appear in XP SP3. Before being allowed access to a network, the system will perform a "health check" on a computer, which is one of the more popular features in Windows Vista.

The "Microsoft Kernel Mode Cryptography Module" will also be included in XP SP3, allowing users to access various encryption algorithms.

Microsoft plans to release Windows XP SP3 early next year.

Microsoft's attitude toward XP is very contradictory. The more it enhances XP, the fewer reasons users have to upgrade to Vista. Recent surveys show that 30% of businesses do not plan to upgrade their desktop systems to Windows Vista.