[NaughtyMan]

What is the purpose of Microsoft Office programs trying to access the internet?

I am running Windows XP SP3 and would like to run MS Office 2007 or 2010 and would like to deny access to any Microsoft Office program from wanting to access the internet without having to install a third-party firewall.

Is there a way to permanently and safely deny MS Office programs access to the internet without disconnecting my internet connection?

[Freebooter]

You cannot deny network access to any microsoft office programs with Windows XP Firewall it does not stop output connection Windows Firewall in Windows XP only stops incoming connections. Windows XP Firewall blocks unsolicited connections to your computer.

[[Rn] 7s^2]

What is the purpose of Microsoft Office programs trying to access the internet?

To check for bug fixes and updates. Send reports about performance etc...