Seven months after releasing the final version of Windows Live OneCare 1.5, Microsoft is today offering a Windows Live OneCare 2.0 beta for public testing. The existing Windows Live OnceCare 1.5 release includes sections for Protection Plus (which handles threats and malware), Performance Plus, and Backup and Restore. The new release adds home networking tools to the mix.

Realizing that most home networks have an average of 2.5 computers, a typical OneCare license allows installation on three separate PCs. OneCare 2.0 adds the ability to monitor the security of two additional PCs from one network hub. In addition, OneCare 2.0 helps set up printer sharing among the connected OneCare protected PCs. Also new is network layer protection in the Windows Firewall, sensing settings appropriate for the home environment and then changing those settings when you take your laptop out to a public network. OneCare 2.0 includes a network wizard to help you set up and maintain security on a wireless home network. If your router is one supported by OneCare, you can enable encryption on any of your connected PCs through OneCare.