Microsoft have let a few details on forthcoming Windows Longhorn networking details slip at a recent hour-long Web chat. In true Microsoft fashion, nothing is at all set in stone, and is very likely subject to change. Some highlights are:
-Delivery of a new, integrated IPv4/IPv6 stack optimized for low-speed wireless and multigigabit networks.
-Built-in support for streaming audio/video for entertainment and real-time communications tasks.
-Support for 802.11i wireless networking and 802.1x enterprise wireless scripting support. Microsoft also will deliver more troubleshooting tools for wireless users.
The Longhorn client is due out in 2006; the server variant is slated for 2007. That is, if Microsoft stays on target for delivery of this new operating system.