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4/8/2010

Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a distributed, open networking architecture that enhances peer-to-peer network connectivity for personal computers, wireless devices, and other intelligent appliances. UPnP uses existing standard protocols, such as TCP/IP, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), and Extensible Markup Language (XML) to seamlessly connect networked devices and to manage data transfer among connected devices.

Note   For information about differences between the UPnP implementation available for Windows Mobile devices and that available for Windows Embedded CE devices, see UPnP in Windows Mobile Devices.

UPnP provides an architectural framework for creating self-configuring, self-describing devices and services. Networks managed by UPnP require no setup by users or network administrators because UPnP supports automatic discovery.

UPnP enables a device to dynamically join a network, obtain an IP address, and convey its capabilities on request. Control points can use the UPnP application programming interface (API) to learn about the presence and capabilities of devices that are registered on the network. A device can leave a network smoothly and automatically when it is no longer in use.

UPnP uses no device drivers. It is media-independent and can be used on any operating system (OS). UPnP offers programmatic control to applications. UPnP enables developers to write their own user interfaces for devices, forgoing the vendor-provided interface.

Security Note:
Because a UPnP service can potentially be remotely activated without authentication, it presents an area of vulnerability for a networked system. When UPnP services are deployed in a controlled environment, such as a home or business intranet where all the users are trusted, the risk of malicious attack is lessened.

In This Section

Supported UPnP Functionality

Provides an overview of the UPnP implementation.

UPnP Concepts

Provides an overview of the UPnP architecture and Device Control Protocols (DCPs) support included out-of-the-box. Includes a description of each architectural element, which includes addressing, discovery, description, control, eventing, and presentation. Also introduces the supported DCPs.

Using the UPnP Control Point API

Provides detailed information about the UPnP Control Point API and explains how to locate and control devices on a UPnP network.

Using the UPnP Device Host API

Lists the tasks a UPnP device host can perform and provides instructions that explain how to implement and register a hosted device.

Using the UPnP AV Framework

Explains how to use the UPnP AV Framework to implement target devices that use and conform to the UPnP AV DCP.

Related Sections

Universal Plug and Play (UPnP)

Provides a high-level UPnP overview and links to all UPnP documentation topics.

UPnP Security

Provides information about how to use UPnP in secure environments.

UPnP Registry Settings

Lists the registry settings that store configuration information for UPnP device-hosting services.

UPnP Reference

Contains reference information about the various included UPnP APIs.
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