Why do I need UPnP, Peer-to-Peer support, Simple TCP/IP and RIP in Windows XP Pro SP1?

[Rick]

Just running a minimalist home network, a Win 95 PC + a Win XP Pro SP1 PC +
router with dialup connection (through the backup port).

I do not have UPnP enabled nor Peer-to-Peer support installed, but I can
still share folders/files between the PCs and connect to the Internet
through the router configuration tool (browser pointing to its address).
I understand that UPnP detects devices automatically on a network.
When I enable my Win XP Pro with UPnP, all it does is detecting the router
and show an extra icon in the Network Connection when getting connected to
the Internet. This is nice because I have an extra notification I am
connected to the Internet. But not other settings can be achived through
this icon, not even disconnecting from the Internet. I still have to point
to the router address through the web browser to disconnect.
Does anyone know what other settings can be done through this icon or
generally what other settings through UPnP? How can one control a device
through UPnP?

Second thing is the Peer-to-Peer support that can be installed through
Add/Remove Windows Components. What extra advantages does it bring? Does it
have any connection with File and Print Shareing?

What about Simple TCP/IP Services and RIP Listener. Even though I do not
have Simple TCP/IP Services installed, I do have QoD appearing in my Network
Properties.

Rick

 

[Alex Nichol]

I do not have UPnP enabled nor Peer-to-Peer support installed, but I can
still share folders/files between the PCs and connect to the Internet
through the router configuration tool (browser pointing to its address).
I understand that UPnP detects devices automatically on a network.
When I enable my Win XP Pro with UPnP, all it does is detecting the router
and show an extra icon in the Network Connection when getting connected to
the Internet.

The only benefit UPnP would provide is automatic 'NAT' (Network Address
translation for your internet connections, and then only if the router
hardware supports it