What is "Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" in my Windows XP service list? And how is "Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service related to ipnathlp.dll?

"Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" is a Windows XP service that "Provides network address translation, addressing, name resolution and/or intrusion prevention services for a home or small office network." "Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service is provided by ipnathlp.dll DLL file.

Detailed information on "Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service:

Service name: SharedAccess
Display name: Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
Execution command: C:\Windows\System32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs
Start type: Manual
Service status: Stopped
Dependencies:
   Base Filtering Engine
   Network Connection
   Remote Access Connection Manager
   Windows Management Instrumentation

"Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service is provided by a DLL file called: ipnathlp.dll:

Name: ipnathlp.dll
Location: C:\Windows\System32\ipnathlp.dll
Description: Microsoft NAT Helper Components
File version: 6.1.7601.17514
Size: 293 KB (300,544 bytes)
Modified: Monday, July 13, 2009, 9:15:33 PM

Disabling "Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)" service should not cause any issues when running Windows XP system.

⇒"svchost.exe -k netsvcs" Services on Windows XP

⇒⇒Windows XP Services Tutorials