Windows 32bit Family XP RTM - 5.1.2600
XP SP1a - 1106
XP SP2 - 2180
Server 2003 RTM - 5.2.3790
Server 2003 SP1 - 1830
Server 2003 SP2 - 3959
Vista RTM - 6000.16386
Server 2008 Beta 3 - 6001.16510
Windows 64bit Family XP 64bit RTM - 5.2.3790.1830
XP 64bit SP2 - 3959
Server 2003 64bit RTM - 5.2.3790.1830
Server 2003 64bit SP2 - 3959
Vista 64bit RTM - 6000.16386
Server 2008 64bit Beta 3 - 6001.16510
Over the months since Vista's release, there has been no doubt about the reduced level of network performance experienced compared to Windows XP. However, some users over at the 2CPU forums have discovered an unexplained connection with audio playback resulting in a cap at approximately 5%-10% of total network throughput. Whenever any audio is being sent to a sound card (even, several users report, while paused), network performance is instantly reduced. As soon as the audio is stopped, the throughput begins to climb to its expected speed. It's a tough one for users — what do you pick, sound or speed? So much for multi-tasking.