JSI Tip 6963. Windows XP SP1a makes the Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client optional?

The Simple Service Discovery Protocol (SSDP) Discovery service listens on port 1900 for NOTIFY directives that advertise the availability of UPnP-capable devices on the network. The Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client component starts the SSDP Discovery service to detect Internet gateway devices, like routers, ICS (Internet Connection Sharing) computers, and most wireless devices.

If you do not require this functionality, you can remove the Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client from your computer, reducing the risk of Internet attacks to port 1900.

To remove the Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client:

1. Control Panel / Add or Remove Programs / Add/Remove Windows Components.

2. Select Networking Services in the Components list and press Details.

3. Clear the check mark for Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client.

4. Press OK.

5. Press Next.

6. Press Finish.

7. Restart your computer.

NOTE: If you need the Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client functionality, be sure to block port 1900 in your firewall.

NOTE: See the following Microsoft Knowledge Base articles:

Capabilities of the Internet Gateway Device Discovery and Control Client and of Universal Plug and Play.

Unchecked Buffer in Universal Plug and Play Can Lead to System Compromise for Windows XP.