Network Programming Question (beginner)

I'm not sure whether this question is as simle to anwer as it is to ask, but what is the best (most robust, most secure, quickest to code or learn, etc.) programming language to use when developing TCP/IP applications (client/server arch.) for Windows XP or 2000 platforms?

At this point, I really don't care about specific functionality, but rather what programming language or package provides the best access to the heart of Win. network programming.

Also, any of you folk out there have any good reference material(s), whether books, wwws, or other for Windows Network Programming?

Thanks in advance for your help!

--AFPJR

From what you say only WinSocks would spring to mind as to the best protocol to use. Its the fastest and most powerful available and it gives you the most control over what you want it to do, the only problem being that its not the easiest to program. I'm just finding out how hard just now :)

For me the biggest helps have been looking through the source code of FileZilla, CodeGuru and Codeproject. Also an amazing help has been.

http://www.cisco.com/univercd/cc/td/...k/sklibfun.htm

Which is basically a huge FAQ for sockets coding. Hope it helps a little :)