Tags: sp2, windows xp

News (137)

• Has Microsoft gone soft on piracy?

• Malicious 'Error 404' message exploits Windows XP SP2

  Security researchers are claiming that a vulnerability in Microsoft's Windows XP SP2 can allow hackers to run an executable file on a user's computer.

• Microsoft delays SP2 auto update

  Microsoft is delaying distribution of Windows XP Service Pack 2 via its Automatic Update service by at least nine days in order to give corporate customers more time to temporarily block automatic downloading of SP2 by their employees.

• Report: Major Windows security update foiled

  A Russian security company claims it found a way to beat a security measure in Microsoft's Windows XP Service Pack 2, a major update aimed at securing customers' PCs.

• Windows XP SP2 flaw complex but dangerous

  Security experts have identified a modified exploit that can target computers running Windows XP SP2.

Blogs (1)

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  Microsoft OneCare only cares about one...

  I found out last week that although Windows Vista will have a snazzy new firewall, by default it will be set to block only incoming traffic -- unless you decide to pay Microsoft an extra US$50 a year...

Features and Case Studies (65)

• Why SP2 might crash Windows XP

  Installing Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 on a PC with a "Prescott" CPU and certain chip sets can cause it to fail to reboot completely. The problem can be solved with a workaround or a BIOS update.

• Has Microsoft gone soft on piracy?

• SP2 vs. the plug-ins

  With the introduction of Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, sites and software that depend on ActiveX may falter under Microsoft's new security regime.

• SP2's new firewall: Not good enough

  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

• How SP2 affects Tablet PCs

  When Windows XP SP2 is installed on a Tablet PC, this is essentially an OS upgrade to TPC Edition 2005. But beware -- it might cause some problems.

Videos (2)

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  AusCERT: Microsoft's top security man avoids talk of XP SP3

  George Stathakopoulos, general manager of product security at Microsoft, tells us how Windows XP SP2 came about and why the company is not yet ready to talk about XP SP3. He also explains that UAC in Windows Vista is designed to be part of a 'defence in depth' strategy and not a standalone security solution.

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  Windows Vista Business

  Windows Vista Business is essentially warmed-over Windows XP. If you're currently happy with Windows XP SP2, we see no compelling reason to upgrade. On the other hand, if you need a new computer right now, Windows Vista is stable enough for everyday use.

Reviews (77)

• Windows XP SP2: almost here

  Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) promises serious security fixes, and it's almost here. But you may not want to jump on it too fast. We'll tell you why.

• Microsoft Windows XP SP2

  We recommend installing Windows XP SP2 but only after Microsoft has had a few weeks to work out the kinks.

• Internet Explorer 6 (with Windows XP SP2)

  Venerable Internet Explorer is showing its age among the hot, young field of browsers led by Mozilla's Firefox.

• Windows XP SP2 more secure? Not so fast

  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 improves Windows XP SP2 security

  Windows XP Service Pack 2 introduces significant changes to the Internet Connection Firewall and to handling buffer overruns. See how these changes could improve the default XP security configuration.

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