My PC runs XP with all the latest critical updates. I have it set to
notify me when Windows updates are available but to let me install them
manually.

I recently installed the 2007 version of TurboTax and as part of its
installation it installed "Microsoft .NET Framework version 2". The
next day, I got an automatic alert from Microsoft that a security update
for Microsoft .NET Framework version 2 was available for download.

I actually appreciate that convenience and added safety of that alert,
but what concerns me is that obviously Microsoft was made aware of what
is installed on my PC and that a connection was therefore made in the
background between my PC and Microsoft without my being alerted that it
was taking place. My PC is on a wireless home network behind a router
and I also use Zone Alarm's firewall for added protection. I realize
that certain background connections are allowed but is there a way to be
alerted when they actually happen so I get a feel for what is actually
happening!?

I also wonder how often these connections happen and what effect they
might have in slowing down my PC?

Thanks.

Jeff