SocketTools uses the Windows CryptoAPI and Schannel security provider to provide support for Transport Security Layer (TLS), which is used with secure connections. The latest version of TLS that is available on the Windows XP platform is TLS 1.0 and cannot be used to establish secure connections.
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Important: This article provides information for a version of Windows which is no longer supported by SocketTools. The minimum required version is Windows 7 SP1 or Windows Server 2008 R2.
Microsoft had previously released an update for Windows Embedded POSReady 2009 which could be installed on Windows XP, adding support for TLS 1.2. However, it required making a permanent change to the operating system and most importantly, it did not include updated cipher suites.
Although the system could support the TLS 1.2 protocol with this update, Windows XP would still attempt to use outdated encryption algorithms which are no longer considered secure, causing servers to reject the connection attempt.
SocketTools 10 no longer supports secure connections on Windows XP and Windows Vista. The oldest versions of Windows which provides support for TLS 1.2 and secure cipher suites are Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2.
We recommend upgrading to SocketTools 11 and Windows 10 or later as soon as possible. This ensures your applications continue using the strongest encryption available when establishing a secure connection.
If you are currently using an older version of SocketTools, upgrading to the current version will automatically select TLS 1.2 as the default version in both our client and server components.
Previous versions of SocketTools would attempt to negotiate earlier versions of TLS and did not provide a mechanism for excluding TLS 1.0, which can cause servers to refuse the connection. If your applications require secure connections, you should upgrade to the current version immediately.
You can download a free evaluation of SocketTools, and it can exist side-by-side with previous versions. We've made every effort to ensure the transition from previous versions is as simple as possible, and you can upgrade your development license at a reduced cost. If you have any technical support questions about upgrading your projects, please contact us and we can assist you.
See Also
SocketTools System Requirements
Invalid Digital Signatures on Windows XP
Windows and Supported TLS Versions
Support for TLS 1.0 and PCI Compliance