This is proven effective in windows 2000. I have not tried it in xp but since the operating systems are very similar it may be workable.
I have been searching for a couple of months for a fix. The issue was in joining a server on Nova World and the lobby locking up. I finally found an answer that worked great for me. It goes as follows:
Go to Control Panel - Sound - Audio - Advanced - Performance - then turn Hardware Acceleration down all the way to the left.
Find the df2.exe in your install directory. Right click, --> Properties and in the Compatability tab check "run this program in campatability mode for windows XP service pack 2".
Logged
...........sundown you better take care, if I find you been creeping 'round my back stairs. ~ Gordon Lightfoot