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

"Windows Firewall" is a Windows XP service that "Windows Firewall helps protect your computer by preventing unauthorized users from gaining access to your computer through the Internet or a network." "Windows Firewall" service is provided by ipnathlp.dll DLL file.

Detailed information on "Windows Firewall" service:

Service name: MpsSvc
Display name: Windows Firewall
Execution command: C:\WINDOWS\system32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs
Start type: Automatic
Service status: Started
Dependencies:
   Base Filtering Engine
   Windows Firewall Authorization Driver

"Windows Firewall" service is provided by a DLL file called: wevtsvc.dll:

Name: ipnathlp.dll
Location: C:\Windows\System32\ipnathlp.dll
Description: Microsoft NAT Helper Components
File version: 5.1.2600.5512
Size: 323 KB (331,264 bytes)
Modified: Monday, April 14, 2008, 4:41:56 AM

Disabling "Windows Firewall" service may cause issues when running Windows XP system.

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

⇒⇒Windows XP Services Tutorials