Wireless Zero Configuration
Description
The Wireless Zero Configuration (also known as the Windows Auto Configuration or WZC) is a tool inherent in the Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Server 2003 Operating Systems that dynamically selects a wireless network to connect to based on a user's preferences and various default settings1. This can be used instead of, or in the absence of, a wireless network utility from the manufacturer of a computer's wireless networking device.
Problems with WZC
Due to the way that WZC is written, there are several problems that may push some users to abandon it in favor of another wireless configuration utility2.
1. Since WZC uses the SSID of a given network to determine whether or not to connect, it will not distinguish between two different networks, and may connect to a network other than the one that the user intended.
2. Even if a user signifies one of two networks with the same SSID as a preferred network, the WZC may connect to the other network if the preferred network does not have SSID broadcasting enabled.
3. If you do not use 802.1X encryption on your network, the WZC may interrupt wireless service in an attempt to authenticate security.
Sources
1Windows XP Wireless Auto Configuration: The Cable Guy, November 2002
2Confronting WZC Troubleshooting - Wi-Fi Planet Forums