I decided to uninstall version 273 and re-install it with Defense + disabled. All I want is an in/out FW I can see and control. After the un-install and reboot, XP reported that the Windows FW was off, but the Security Center reported that CFP was “on”. I turned Windows FW on, and Security Center reported two firewalls running.
I turned Windows FW off, and Security Center reported CFP was on. I installed CFP v. 273, this time with Defense + off and rebooted. XP now reported CFP was installed and CFP put up the basic configuration window. I selected the network name, clicked Apply and CFP put the config window up again. I filled it in again, this time it did not return. This suggests the FW thinks its “installed twice” somewhere.
Looking at the configuration details, I saw my network listed twice. I deleted one of them and everything looks OK.
Looks like a few bugs there. CFP needs to be a good player and get the system reset cleanly back to Windows FW when it is uninstalled.