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February 25, 2005 10:21 AM PST
Ready or not, Windows XP update is coming
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Microsoft extends block to SP2 auto update
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In response to requests from businesses, Microsoft last year released a tool that allowed companies to continue using the automatic update feature but temporarily block the security-oriented update from downloading.
However, the grace period comes to an end on April 12. Microsoft has posted a warning on its Web site, alerting people about the impending deadline.
"Time is running out!" Microsoft said. "Please note that the mechanism to temporarily disable delivery of Windows XP SP2 is only available for a period of 240 days (eight months) from Aug. 16, 2004. At the end of this period (after April 12, 2005), Windows XP SP2 will be delivered to all Windows XP and Windows XP Service Pack 1 systems."
Microsoft first released the SP2-blocking tool in August, saying it would allow customers to put off the upgrade for 120 days. In September, Microsoft said it would double the length of time, to 240 days, to give businesses more time to test the software.
In a statement, Microsoft said it is sticking to that schedule.
"SP2 is an important, free security update for Windows XP customers that is already delivering value to over 180 million customers worldwide," said Jon Murchinson, a Microsoft product manager.
The move affects only those who use Windows' automatic update to connect directly to Microsoft servers. Some businesses have reconfigured the automatic update feature to connect to their own corporate update servers. Those companies can continue to push out updates to their own schedule.
While recognizing the need for customers to test software, Microsoft has been urging businesses to move to SP2 for its enhanced security benefits, particularly for portable machines that frequently travel in and out of a corporate firewall.
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than forcing updates on consumers. The public deserves better.
Use a Mac - they work, they're fun and most importantly,
they're secure.
The link to the registry file is here:
ftp://brainscott.com/Microsoft/SP2Block/XPSP2Block.reg
native Safari
This is why security sucks on OS's and Software. We just stand back and defend insecurity on all fronts. You want better software then demand it. This is probably the silliest argument I have heard, but let me give you my opinion.
Windows is insecure and bloated. They aren't going to fix that with patches or service packs. They also use unfair and often illegal tactics to fend off competetion.
Linux has too many cheifs, is way too bloated with extra features, and requires users to know a lot more than the average user is willing to learn.
Apple tries to keep to tight a reign on it's platform. It's prices maybe justified, but they are still way too high. OS X has it's problems as well don't think it doesn't.
computer. Go with FireFox and Thunderbird. Then don't turn on
Automatic Uopdates - that's just asking for trouble. Instead,
review each new update, reject IE and OE updates and any others
that are suspicious, and then let the rest install. I don't know if
they all work, but they don't seem to impact how my PC's run (so
far, anyhow). But then, my PC;s are rarely used on the internet.
- Working with your software supplier
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by
February 27, 2005 7:57 AM PST
- All of this sounds like having to work in spite of, rather than
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See all 29 Comments >>with your supplier.
There's a better way