When Microsoft updated Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2) in August 2004, for the first time Windows included a firewall that was switched on by default.
Microsoft on Tuesday showed off a forthcoming update to Windows designed to make the operating system more secure and proposed a caller ID-like system for e-mail that could help curtail the growing spam problem.
Microsoft issued four security bulletins overnight, related to its Windows operating system and SQL Server database software.
Digital music and DVD movie add-on packs for Windows XP could stir controversy around its decision not to fully support the MP3 file format.
Web services are a dominant theme for the next version of Windows Media Player, making its first preview appearance next month.
Two new Microsoft Internet Explorer threats haven't been patched and since one of them is addressed in Windows XP Service Pack 2, users may have to wait until the release of that Service Pack.
Microsoft's new firewall offering, included in Windows XP Service Pack 2, has a long way to go to match established products from Zone Labs and other players. Additional reading: XP SP2: The good, bad and ugly
The software giant has issued a flurry of medium-level security threats that Windows administrators need to be aware of. Additional reading: The beginning of the end for Microsoft?
Nearly all versions of Internet Explorer need to be updated to fix critical flaws released in Security Bulletin MS03-048. Plus, there's bulletin MS03-049, which reveals a new flaw in the Workstation service of two versions of Windows.
In a single day, Microsoft recently released seven Security Bulletins--five of which were labelled Critical.
While XP SP2 is a huge step forward for Microsoft, there are important caveats. For example, don't expect the new Windows Firewall to prevent keystroke-logging Trojans from stealing your credit card info.
Microsoft has changed the look and feel of its venerable browser while adding some much-needed security features.
Windows Live OneCare is the first of many managed online security services to debut this year. We recommend waiting, then comparing the offerings from Symantec, McAfee, and other established security vendors before deciding on a managed online security service.
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