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Vista SP1 Set for Release in Early 2008, Microsoft Says Microsoft has confirmed that the first service pack for Windows Vista is entering beta next month and will ship during the first quarter of 2008. Sep 3, 2007 States, U.S. clash over Microsoft antitrust ruling Legal filings in the antitrust case against Microsoft show that plaintiffs in the dispute disagree over whether the company should be released from rules put in place by a 2002 consent decree. Aug 30, 2007 Vista Left Off Core IT Roster For Olympics The organizers of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing have decided to run Windows XP on all PCs doing vital processing, relegating Windows Vista to systems in Internet lounges for the athletes. Aug 13, 2007 Aussies rage against the Microsoft machine over Vista security feature Fuming over Microsoft's refusal to allow the company to load unsigned drivers into Vista, Australian security company Linchpin Labs suggested Tuesday that Microsoft get its own security house in order before lobbing accusations of threatening behavior at other vendors' products. Aug 7, 2007 Russian malware storm brewing? A Russian server hosting more than 400 different bits of malware could be about to launch a large-scale attack through sites hosted in Italy, according to Trend Micro security researchers. Aug 2, 2007 Microsoft: Leaked Vista hot fixes all around! A series of Vista hot-fix packs from Microsoft that leaked to the Web will be released to all users, according to a company spokeswoman. But no release date has been announced. Jul 31, 2007 Most important news about Windows '7': 32-bit to live on The promise of an easy transition between 32-bit and 64-bit editions of Windows is easing the minds of many users, but PC vendors and the major software houses may see things differently. Jul 23, 2007 Microsoft sees stronger XP sales in FY08 -- yes, XP Microsoft has revised its forecast for sales of Windows XP during fiscal year 2008, indicating stronger sales of the OS than it had earlier projected. Jul 20, 2007 Microsoft: 'Whoa now' on Vista SP1 Backing off a claim that appeared to have been made in last month's agreement update with antitrust regulators, Microsoft on Thursday said that the beta of Windows Vista Service Pack 1 is not imminent. Jul 20, 2007 Browser blame game: IE manager points to Firefox, Mozilla exec points back Executives at Microsoft Corp. and Mozilla Corp. continue to bicker over who's to blame for a number of zero-day vulnerabilities in Windows. Jul 19, 2007 Mozilla patches Firefox, slams door on IE zero-day bug Mozilla Corp. has rolled out a security update for its Firefox browser that fixes nine flaws, including one -- also found in Internet Explorer -- that could be used by attackers to execute malicious code. Jul 18, 2007 Xbox 360 exec leaves Microsoft Less than two weeks after Microsoft announced a $1 billion charge to extend the warranty of failing Xbox 360 consoles, the executive who headed the company's video game business has resigned to take a job at Electronic Arts. Jul 18, 2007 The Technology Plan Here's the lay of the land at Auto Warehousing Co. and the plan for how the transition from Microsoft to Apple will happen. Jul 16, 2007 While the Code Is Cooking While AWC IT staffers rewrite the company's main VIPS software application in Java, Parallels Desktop will enable AWC to boot Apple's OS X operating system on Intel Macs and run Windows apps like they were native to the Mac. Jul 16, 2007 Browser blame game continues over Windows zero-day flaw The debate over who is at fault for a Windows zero-day vulnerability continues, with Microsoft saying it's not responsible for the issue and Mozilla making plans to patch Firefox -- even though it accepts no blame for the flaw, either. Jul 12, 2007 Adobe fixes critical Flash bugs Adobe Systems Inc. has released fixes for three critical vulnerabilities in Flash Player that could let hackers infect Windows, Mac OS X and Linux systems. Jul 11, 2007 Microsoft promises partners a 'feeding frenzy' on new software next February At Microsoft's annual conference for business partners, company executives said new versions of Windows Server, SQL Server and Visual Studio will be launched simultaneously next February. Jul 10, 2007 Corporate users dump Microsoft's Software Assurance A growing number of enterprises are rethinking the need for Microsoft's Software Assurance program because the time between software updates makes the program less economically inviting, according to a Forrester analyst. Jul 9, 2007 Studying maggots a better job than being a Microsoft security grunt? Popular Science has released its list of the worst science jobs for 2007, and "Microsoft security grunt" is among the jobs listed. Jun 26, 2007 Antitrust judge favors Microsoft search agreement A U.S. judge said today she favors an agreement on desktop search between Microsoft and antitrust plaintiffs. Jun 26, 2007 Symantec takes heat over Chinese compensation offer Symantec is taking heat in the mainstream Chinese media over its compensation offer for a destructive software update. Jun 26, 2007 How Code, Market Share Affect OS Security Letters: Going deeper on the question of security and operating systems. Jun 25, 2007 Microsoft kills third-party Windows client project A Windows version that independent developers called "Longhorn Reloaded" is now officially dead. Jun 22, 2007 Microsoft better at patching XP than Vista? Data released Thursday by a security executive at Microsoft appears to show that six months after Vista's release, the company has more vulns sitting open than it did at this point in XP's history. Jeff Jones' report was an effort to show how Microsoft's software development methodology, called the Security Development Lifecycle (SDL), is yielding dividends. Jun 22, 2007 Second security rival knocks Microsoft's antispyware Defender A Microsoft security rival, PC Tools, posted test results today indicating Windows Defender, Microsoft's antispyware software, blocked only a portion of the malware thrown at it. Feb 21, 2007 Firefox loses browser share, Safari gains Although the Firefox Web browser gave up some market share last month, according to Net Applications, the opposite was true for Apple's Safari. It continued to gain ground, as did Mac OS X. Feb 21, 2007 Virtual realities: all the world on a Mac Virtualization on the Mac is a fairly new phenomenon, and getting here took some doing. Columnist Richard Hoffman explains. Feb 20, 2007 Mac virtualization: VMware and Parallels side by side Parallels has the edge, our reviewer says, for reasons other than because VMware's Fusion is still in beta. Feb 20, 2007 Apple market share to slip as Vista temporarily rules, analyst says A surge in sales of Windows-based PCs and laptops, prompted by the release of Vista, could push down Apple's market share in the first quarter of the year, according to a Piper Jaffray analyst. Feb 16, 2007 Ballmer hints at tougher Vista antipiracy crackdown Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer said the company hopes to squeeze more revenue from countries where software piracy is rampant by dialing up antipiracy technology in Vista. Feb 16, 2007 Ballmer dampens Vista sales forecast Microsoft Corp. CEO Steve Ballmer said Thursday that sales forecasts for the company's new Vista operating system may be "overly aggressive." Feb 16, 2007 Microsoft: Don't ask about Vista follow-up, we don't tell Despite comments last week that the successor to Vista would be out in 2009, Microsoft officials are saying little about what's to come. Feb 14, 2007 Microsoft settles embarrassing antitrust suit in Iowa Microsoft has agreed to settle a class-action antitrust lawsuit in Iowa that has brought numerous internal documents and e-mail messages into the public view. Feb 14, 2007 Microsoft fixes 20 flaws, patches entire security line-up Microsoft today released a dozen security updates to fix a score of vulnerabilities in various products, including a "critical" patch for its own security software. Feb 13, 2007 Microsoft touts support for Windows Mobile 6.0 Microsoft is touting wide acceptance of Windows Mobile 6.0 by device makers. Feb 12, 2007 IBM unveils Open Client apps that run across multiple OSes In a move that it sees as one way to boost the use of Linux on the desktop, IBM is unveiling an open-standards-based suite of applications that runs on the Windows, Linux or Macintosh operating systems. Feb 12, 2007 RSA: Microsoft says Vista follow-up likely in 2009 Details are scarce at this point, but the next client operating system will have a "fundamental piece of enabling technology," such as a hypervisor or new type of interface, a Microsoft executive said this week. Feb 9, 2007 Microsoft makes a U-turn, keeps Hotmail name Hotmail lives, at least in terms of what Microsoft will call its Web-based e-mail service. The company had planned to change the service's name to Windows Live Mail but changed its mind this week. Feb 9, 2007 Microsoft to patch 12 flaws in Windows, Office, OneCare next week Microsoft plans to release a dozen security updates next week to patch critical vulnerabilities in Windows, Office, Visual Studio and in its antivirus software. Feb 8, 2007 Microsoft's Open XML under scrutiny on its way to ISO approval Nineteen nations, including some that have already adopted the OpenDocument Format standard, have submitted comments and objections to the International Organization for Standardization regarding Microsoft's Open XML. Feb 7, 2007 Microsoft talks up security at DC Vista launch Talking up the new release at a launch event Tuesday, a Microsoft VP said that during Vista's development, "Every single time we had a trade-off between application compatibility or security, we went with security." Jan 30, 2007 Gates says Vista key to multimedia computing era Like Windows 95 more than a decade ago, Windows Vista will usher in a new era of computing, Bill Gates said at a New York launch event for his company's long-awaited operating system. Jan 30, 2007 In Seattle, midnight Vista launch is more subdued than past Windows releases Microsoft launched the consumer version of its long-awaited operating system last night. And a crowd outside the Bellevue, Wash., Best Buy store, just a few miles from Microsoft's main campus, was more interested in meeting Seattle Seahawks star running back Shaun Alexander than buying the new software. Jan 30, 2007 Users Not Rushing on Vista, Office 2007 With the general launch of Windows Vista and Office 2007 finally on tap, an informal poll of 40 IT managers showed that most don't expect to install either product on more than a few test PCs this year. Jan 29, 2007 3,000 pieces of evidence on Iowa antitrust case posted online More than 3,000 pieces of evidence in the antitrust lawsuit between Iowa consumers and Microsoft Corp. were posted to a public Web site late Thursday. Jan 19, 2007 HP tops Dell as PC sales continue to slow in Q4 For the second time in a row, Hewlett-Packard beat Dell for the title of world's largest PC vendor, even though the global market fell short of predicted growth, IDC said. Jan 18, 2007 With discounts, buying options, Microsoft makes push to entice Vista customers Microsoft Corp. unveiled more discounts and upgrade options for Windows Vista aimed at jump-starting sales of the operating system. Jan 18, 2007 Symantec readies Vista versions of Norton software Symantec said today that three products in its Norton line of security and utility software will have Windows Vista versions ready by the public launch of Vista at the end of this month. Jan 17, 2007 Toshiba plans HD-DVD-R laptop for Vista launch Toshiba will put on sale in late February the first laptop PC in the world with support for the write-once HD-DVD-R optical disc format. Jan 16, 2007 Microsoft Excels With Four Business Models Opinion: Mark Willoughby says Microsoft has joined an elite club of companies that can make money in four different business models. The company recently added Web services and personal music to its portfolio. Jan 15, 2007 NSA Helped Microsoft Set Security for Vista Microsoft and the National Security Agency confirmed that the NSA helped the company configure Windows Vista so it meets the Pentagon’s security requirements. Jan 15, 2007 Longhorn Server Revealed: Group Policy Enhancements Network location awareness is perhaps the broadest improvement; columnist Jonathan Hassell explains more. Jan 12, 2007 U.K. schools advised to hold off on Vista, Office 2007 A report released this week highlights concerns over file-format compatibility and other issues. Jan 12, 2007 SGI to offer Windows on clusters Silicon Graphics Inc. plans to offer Windows Compute Cluster software on its Altix XE high-performance computing systems beginning in March. Jan 11, 2007 Microsoft tech evangelist who called developers 'pawns' apologizes Former Microsoft tech evangelist James Plamondon has apologized for once describing developers as pawns and saying that wooing them was akin to a "one-night stand." Jan 10, 2007 Microsoft's relationship with developers seen as key to success Although a one-time Microsoft evangelist called software developers "pawns" in 1996, the company's relationship with those same developers is seen a key to its success. Jan 9, 2007 Iowa antitrust case: Microsoft exec called software developers 'pawns' James Plamondon, a technical evangelist at Microsoft for eight years, once described software developers as pawns and equated working with them to going out on a first date, according to testimony in an antitrust case in Iowa against the software company. Jan 8, 2007 CES: Gates expands Microsoft's digital home plan Bill Gates kicked off the Consumer Electronics Show yesterday by unveiling products Microsoft hopes will encourage more widespread adoption of the digital home. Jan 8, 2007 'Merry Christmas to our heroes' e-mail installs malicious code iDefense warned that a version of this popular PowerPoint file silently installs a backdoor Trojan that gives attackers unauthorized access to infected systems. Dec 24, 2006 Microsoft releases new Longhorn build The company posted the release, which is the December Community Technology Preview of the server OS, on its Microsoft Connect site. Dec 21, 2006 Five tips for backups using Windows' own tools One tip: Every time you shut down your system, Windows makes a backup of certain Registry and driver settings. If things go awry and you can't start Windows, you can restore your machine to its previous state by pressing just before Windows starts. Dec 21, 2006 Q&A: Fathi explains draft API release for PatchGuard Ben Fathi, Microsoft's vice president for the Windows core operating system, talked today about the draft APIs for PatchGuard that were announced today as well as the company's reasons for releasing them. Dec 19, 2006 Microsoft releases first draft of PatchGuard APIs Microsoft today released draft APIs aimed at giving security vendors a way to work around a kernel patch protection technology in Vista called PatchGuard. Dec 19, 2006 The Ultimate Gift Editorial: When Jim Allchin wrote three years ago that he’d buy a Mac if he didn’t work for Microsoft, he was exhibiting a passion and a resolve that the critical Windows development effort code-named Longhorn needed if it was ever to become Vista. Dec 18, 2006 Google releases customized version of IE 7 Google has released a customized version of IE 7 that replaces Windows Live Search with Google as the default search engine. Dec 15, 2006 Gartner: Vista to be last major Windows release The era of monolithic deployments of software releases is nearing an end, and Microsoft will participate in the trend toward more flexible updates, the research firm said. Dec 14, 2006 Microsoft expands benefits for security partners Members of Microsoft's Security Software Advisor program as well as other companies steering customers to the Forefront security software line will have extra financial incentives to do so, the company has announced. Dec 14, 2006 Microsoft patches IE, Windows Media Player flaws Microsoft Corp. has patched critical flaws in Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player and Visual Basic with its last "Patch Tuesday" release of 2006. Dec 12, 2006 Microsoft's Allchin on Mac praise: I was ranting to change Vista process Windows development chief James Allchin says he was only trying to spur development on Windows Vista when he wrote three years ago in an e-mail to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and co-founder Bill Gates that he'd buy a Mac if he didn't work at Microsoft. Dec 12, 2006 Windows development chief: 'I would buy a Mac if I didn't work for Microsoft' Windows development chief James Allchin wrote in a 2004 e-mail to Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and company co-founder Bill Gates that his company had "lost sight" of customer needs and said he would buy a Mac if he worked elsewhere. Dec 11, 2006 Hackers work around Vista's activation feature Hackers have come up with a way to get around one of Microsoft's antipiracy mechanisms for Vista. Dec 8, 2006 Microsoft readies Windows, Visual Studio security fixes Microsoft will release six security updates for Windows and Visual Studio next week. Dec 7, 2006 Living with (or without) Internet Explorer 7.0 Early adopters are discovering that IE7 has compatibility problems with many Web sites and Web applications. Here's how to use IE6 as a backup or to uninstall IE7 completely. Dec 7, 2006 2006: The year in security Much of the trouble centered on phishing, a type of attack where fake Web pages are constructed to harvest log-in details, credit card numbers or other personal information. And, oh yes, spam is back. Dec 7, 2006 New Via chip sets gain Vista certification The result is trouble-free installation of the Windows Vista Ultimate, Enterprise, Business, Home Premium and Home Basic editions, Via said in a statement. Dec 7, 2006 Judge: Microsoft tech docs back on track A U.S. judge praises a new timeframe for Microsoft to fix its technical documentation required in its antitrust settlement. Dec 6, 2006 Windows Vista and Longhorn Server: How they work better together They're like brother and sister, thanks to shared code and a joint development process. Here's what it means to you. Dec 6, 2006 Vista security still no match for social engineering Windows Vista is still prone to attack by three notorious pieces of malware -- mainly because the threats in question rely on social engineering to launch their invasions. Dec 5, 2006 Users Likely to Drag Feet on Vista Rollouts Some early adopters plan to move all of their users to Windows Vista next year. But most companies are expected to stick to their routines of lengthy testing and staggered PC replacements. Dec 4, 2006 Readers riled at Microsoft Vista antipiracy features Computerworld readers across the country have written in angered and frustrated by antipiracy features that are included in the new Vista operating system. Dec 1, 2006 Hello, Vista, have some malware Security researchers at Sophos have identified three viruses already in circulation that can potentially affect computers running Vista -- a less-than-auspicious discovery for the operating system's official launch. Nov 30, 2006 Vista launch sparks competition between PC vendors PC vendors are beefing up their IT service offerings to try to capitalize on Microsoft's launch of Windows Vista Enterprise. Nov 30, 2006 Ice back home doesn't slow Microsoft Vista launch in N.Y. Although an unusual ice storm shut down Seattle -- and left Microsoft's headquarters largely deserted -- the planned launched of Windows Vista and Office 2007 for business customers will take place in New York as planned. Nov 29, 2006 The Devil's Guide to Windows Vista Security Want to live dangerously? Vista includes a lot of features to protect users from themselves, which can be annoying. So if you think you and your network are ready for Vista without the locks, Jonathan Hassell explains how to fly with all the safeties off. Nov 29, 2006 Microsoft releases Systems Management Server 2003 R2 beta Microsoft has released a beta of its software tool to help companies manage their Windows environments, System Management Server 2003 R2. The final version is due out in May. Feb 21, 2006 Microsoft links Office with ERP, CRM software Microsoft has unveiled a line of programs designed to help users trigger workflows or access data in their AX 3.0 ERP and CRM 3.0 systems via desktop-based applications. Feb 21, 2006 Microsoft faces another antitrust suit A California computer services and hardware retailer last week filed a federal civil suit accusing Microsoft Corp. of continuing to violate antitrust laws. Feb 20, 2006 Microsoft eyes six versions of Windows Vista Microsoft over the weekend posted information about Windows Vista indicating that there will be half a dozen versions of the operating system; it later removed the information from the Web, calling the announcement premature. Feb 20, 2006 Vista's encryption could vex investigators DRM-related encryption features in Microsoft Corp.'s upcoming OS release, Windows Vista, could pose tricky challenges for criminal investigators, a Cambridge University professor told British lawmakers earlier this week. Feb 17, 2006 Hackers follow Microsoft patches with malware Hackers have posted attack code that takes advantage of two recently patched Windows Media Player bugs and could allow them to take over a Windows PC that doesn't have the latest security updates. Feb 17, 2006 Microsoft patch fails to install for some users Microsoft found an installation problem with one of its security patches released yesterday that requires some users to take additional steps to install it. Feb 15, 2006 Microsoft issues seven security patches The updates are considered less serious than January's fixes, although two are rated critical. Feb 14, 2006 F-Secure covers Windows Mobile 5.0 F-Secure Corp.'s antivirus product will support Windows Mobile 5.0, it announced Monday, citing the odds the PDA and smart phone OS from Microsoft Corp. will come under increasing attacks from viruses. Feb 13, 2006 Drag-and-drop flaw in IE reported Security analysts and vendors are reporting a flaw in the Internet Explorer browser that could allow malicious code to run and allow a hacker to take over a user's computer. Feb 13, 2006 Microsoft contest hints Vista will ship on Dec. 1 But company will only say that it will ship before year's end, most likely in time for the holiday season. Feb 9, 2006 Windows Media laptop sales spike as prices drop Windows Vista is expected to have some of the premium functionality now found in Windows Media Center Edition built into some of its more standard editions. Feb 9, 2006 Coming next to the Mac: Linux and Windows? Although Apple isnÂ’t pushing the idea, a number of Linux and Windows backers are trying to figure out how to get their favorite operating systems to run on AppleÂ’s new Intel-based Mac hardware. Feb 9, 2006 Microsoft plans to release seven patches Tuesday Microsoft on Tuesday plans to release seven patches for several of its software products, including at least two critical updates for known vulnerabilities. Feb 9, 2006 Microsoft reports two bugs; a third is identified Three vulnerabilities have been identified in some versions of Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser and its HTML Help Workshop program. Feb 8, 2006 Novell tweaks Linux for better graphics, video performance Novell has released updates to the XGL graphics subsystem underlying Linux with an eye toward improving how the operating system handles graphics and video. Feb 7, 2006 Microsoft OneCare coming in June Microsoft Corp.'s Windows OneCare Live PC maintenance service, which has been available for free in beta since November, will be released in June, the company said Tuesday. Feb 7, 2006 Researchers: Popular apps have mismanaged security Big-name companies like America Online Inc. and Adobe Systems Inc. could do a better job of writing secure software, according to a recent report by two Princeton researchers. Feb 6, 2006 Damage forecast low for file-trashing virus A virus scheduled to delete a range of files today on infected Windows-based computers is not likely to result in widespread damage, security experts said. Feb 3, 2006 VMware releases free beta of virtualization software VMware Inc. today released a free beta version of its VMware Server software as part of its effort to fend off upstart rivals touting better technology. Feb 3, 2006 Firefox browser use slips in January Research firm NetApplications.com found that 85.31% of Internet users fired up Internet Explorer last month, up slightly from the number of Web surfers who did so in December. Feb 2, 2006 Using remote storage to extend available storage space Tutorial: Odds are that your file servers are filled with ancient files that nobody uses anymore, but that the lawyers say you have to keep. Windows ServerÂ’s remote storage feature allows you to move such files to tape while still allowing them to be available to users. This article will show you how itÂ’s done. Feb 1, 2006 Senegal goes open-source to cut software costs The state IT agency now buys PCs from local distributors for about $1,500, including Windows XP and Microsoft Office, and an official said switching to open source could cut the price of new machines to $1,000. Feb 1, 2006 Brief: Microsoft releases Service Pack 2 for ISA Server 2004 Microsoft has released Service Pack 2 for ISA Server 2004, an application-layer firewall, VPN and Web cache solution. Feb 1, 2006 Microsoft releases beta 2 preview of IE 7 to developers Microsoft has released a preview version of its second beta of Internet Explorer 7, which is due out in final form by year's end. Jan 31, 2006 Sun unwraps grid-ready Ultra workstations Sun Microsystems has announced a new family of workstations: the Ultra 20, Ultra 40 and Ultra 45. The Ultra 40 and Ultra 45 come bundled with Sun's grid software, while all three systems ship with some of its developer tools. Jan 30, 2006 Planning scenarios for Vista Three Avanade consultants outline issues that companies currently using Windows NT, Windows 2000 and XP will face as they decide whether or not to move to the next-generation OS. Jan 30, 2006 Microsoft adds new features to Windows Live Bloggers say Microsoft plans to unveil an update to Windows XP that will allow "gadget" mini-applications to be dragged and dropped between live.com and the Windows desktop. Jan 27, 2006 MicrosoftÂ’s Allchin talks up Vista's GUI, security features Jim Allchin, president of MicrosoftÂ’s platform products and services division, talked at length yesterday about Windows Vista , which is due out by the end of the year. “We are pushing ahead as fast as we can for all audiences, whether for the business user, the child or the digital music enthusiast,” he said. Jan 27, 2006 EU says Microsoft offer may be insufficient An EU spokesman said Microsoft's offer to license some of its Windows source code might not be enough to avoid fines for noncompliance with its antitrust ruling. Jan 26, 2006 Beta 2 of Windows Vista due in April, blogger writes Microsoft originally planned to release Beta 2 of Windows Vista before the end of 2005, but Microsoft Corporate Vice President Amitabh Srivastava announced in November that it was pushing that test release back to early 2006. Jan 26, 2006 Microsoft has record Q2, misses revenue estimates Microsoft attributed the solid growth to its core Server and Tools business and to its Windows OS, which continued to do well in a strong PC market. Jan 26, 2006 Update: Microsoft to license code to avoid EU fines Microsoft has agreed to license the source code for communications protocols in its Windows server software to avoid being fined $2.43 million a day by the European Commission, the company's top lawyer said. Jan 25, 2006 Microsoft readies two-way firewall for Vista Microsoft is readying a new, highly configurable firewall for its upcoming Windows Vista operating system that is designed to give administrators much greater control over which applications are allowed to run on the systems they manage. Jan 25, 2006 Latest Explorer and Firefox details leak onto Net The latest beta of Internet Explorer 7 leaked onto the Internet last week and was apparently downloaded by tens of thousands of users. Jan 24, 2006 Microsoft offers Web, content design tool betas Microsoft has released public beta versions of two Web and content design tools: Expression Graphic Designer, a painting and illustration tool, and Expression Interactive Designer, a tool for designers and developers who build 3-D animation and graphics. Jan 24, 2006 Microsoft slow to comply with antitrust guidelines, U.S. says The Department of Justice and state prosecutors accused Microsoft of falling behind on compliance with stipulations of the antitrust agreement. Jan 24, 2006 Microsoft Earns Patching Praise From IT Execs Microsoft draws plenty of criticism over security flaws in its products. But when it comes to dealing with vulnerabilities, other top IT vendors are lagging behind Microsoft, according to users and analysts. Jan 23, 2006 Displaying data with Monad Microsoft lead programmer Andy Oakley explains how MSH, the next-generation Windows Command Shell designed for Vista, can format data returned from a shell command. Excerpted from the O'Reilly Media Inc. book Monad. Jan 20, 2006 Learning Monad, Part 3: Souped-up pipeline Microsoft lead programmer Andy Oakley explains how MSH Windows Command Shell's new pipline can pass not only data, but strongly typed objects -- with both information and its structure. Excerpted from the O'Reilly Media Inc. book Monad. Jan 19, 2006 Learning Monad, Part 2: Delve into the registry Microsoft lead programmer Andy Oakley explains the MSH Windows Command Shell, including cmdlets and passing strongly typed data. Part 2: accessing the registry like a file system. Excerpted from the O'Reilly Media Inc. book Monad. Jan 18, 2006 Microsoft releases programming tool betas Microsoft has released updated beta versions of its programming tools for building Web services and workflow-enabled applications on Windows, Windows Communication Foundation and Windows Workflow Foundation. Jan 18, 2006 Analyst: No effect from tardy XP service pack Microsoft's plan to release a third service pack for Windows XP later than expected should not have much effect on Vista sales, an IDC analyst says. Jan 18, 2006 Hands On: Learning Monad, the scripting language for Windows Vista Microsoft lead programmer Andy Oakley offers a detailed look at the next-generation MSH Windows Command Shell, including cmdlets, registry access and passing strongly typed data. Excerpted from the O'Reilly Media Inc. book Monad. Jan 17, 2006 Corel debuts revamped WordPerfect Office software Corel launched a new version of its budget WordPerfect Office software package, saying it's a cheaper alternative to Microsoft's Office software. Jan 17, 2006 Microsoft issues WMF patch for Vista OS build Microsoft Corp. has issued a fix for how the upcoming Windows Vista operating system deals with graphics in the WMF (Windows Metafile) format. Jan 16, 2006 Microsoft: WMF flaw not an intentional back door Microsoft has published a note explaining how the WMF security issue was introduced and disputing allegations that it was included by design. Jan 16, 2006 Internet Explorer 7 to have history flush feature Microsoft's upcoming Internet Explorer 7 browser will have a thorough flush feature that clears its history and all associated files from a user's computer. Jan 16, 2006 Brief: Microsoft clarifies Windows XP support plans Microsoft said it will continue to provide mainstream support for all flavors of Windows XP for two years after the release of Windows Vista. Jan 13, 2006 Target to standardize retail stores on Windows, .Net Microsoft said Target Corp. is standardizing all in-store systems in 1,400 U.S. retail stores on Windows, .Net and SQL Server. Jan 11, 2006 Windows Media Center may go mainstream in Vista Windows XP Media Center Edition OS may not be the standard home entertainment hub that Microsoft Corp. hopes it will be, some analysts said that could change once the company releases the next consumer client version of the Windows OS later this year. Jan 10, 2006 Microsoft releases patches for two critical vulnerabilities Microsoft released patches for two critical vulnerabilities as part of its regularly scheduled security updates for this month. Jan 10, 2006 Microsoft Releases Fix for WMF Flaw Ahead of Schedule After initially saying it wouldn't release a patch for a flaw in its Windows Metafile software until Jan. 10, Microsoft issued the fix last Thursday -- acknowledging that the change in plans was partly driven by pressure from users who wanted to protect their systems from ongoing attempts to exploit the flaw. Jan 9, 2006 Using Netsh with Windows firewall This article examines how to configure and troubleshoot Windows Firewall using the Netsh command-line utility. The procedures covered apply to both the Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 operating system platforms. Jan 9, 2006 Two new WMF bugs found Two more WMF vulnerabilities have been found in the Windows operating system, but neither of them is considered as serious as the one patched by Microsoft last week. Jan 9, 2006 Q&A: Microsoft exec explains the early WMF patch release Debby Fry Wilson, director of the Microsoft Security Response Center, said a Windows Metafile patch was released yesterday because it was ready. And she weighed in on the security communityÂ’s response, saying "chatter" about security issues can sometimes leave customers confused. Jan 6, 2006 CES Q&A: Ballmer and Gates on Vista, Windows Live In an interview at the International Consumer Electronics Show, Steve Ballmer and Bill Gates explain Microsoft's emphasis on Internet services and how Windows Live and Vista fit into the digital lifestyle. Jan 5, 2006 WMF FAQ: What you need to know As Windows users look to fend off attacks related to the recently disclosed Windows Metafile (WMF) vulnerability, Computerworld Security channel editor Angela Gunn has put together an extensive FAQ on the flaw, how it works, what systems are affected and what you can do until MicrosoftÂ’s patch is released Jan. 10. Jan 5, 2006 A Sober Primer: The worm from A to Z With the Sober worm set to launch new attacks at midnight tonight, here's an A-to-Z guide to identifying the worm's many iterations for the past two years. Jan 5, 2006 CES: Gates takes wraps off Windows Vista At this week's Consumer Electronics Show, Bill Gates touted the upcoming Windows Vista operating system, which Microsoft hopes will put it at the center of the digitally connected home. Jan 5, 2006 CES: Palm's Windows-based Treo to be available Thursday First announced in September, the Treo 700w is the first version of the handset to run Microsoft Corp.'s Windows Mobile software. Jan 5, 2006 Bulletin: Microsoft to release WMF patch today Citing "strong consumer sentiment," Microsoft has decided to release a patch for the Windows WMF flaw at 5 p.m. Eastern time today -- five days earlier than it had planned. Jan 5, 2006 Implementing EFS in a Windows Server 2003 domain This article from Windowsecurity.com examines how to manage and use MicrosoftÂ’s Encrypting File System in a Windows 2000 or Server 2003 domain. Jan 4, 2006 Attempts to exploit WMF vulnerability by IM multiply Over 70 variations of instant messages attempting to exploit the WMF vulnerability in Windows have been identified by security researchers since Saturday. Jan 4, 2006 Pre-release Microsoft patch for WMF flaw leaked Microsoft today confirmed that a pre-release version of its security update for the recently disclosed WMF vulnerability was briefly posted on the Internet . Users appear divided on whether to install an already available third-party patch for the problem. Jan 4, 2006 Remote authentication: Different types and uses There comes a time when employees need to remotely log in to the corporate network. This is ideally done via secure means and this article will look at several options. Jan 4, 2006 Update: Microsoft patch for WMF flaw to be released Jan. 10 Security researchers are telling Windows users to install an unofficial patch without waiting for Microsoft to react to a new wave of attacks on a flaw in how the Windows OS handles malicious files in the Windows Metafile format. Jan 3, 2006 Microsoft says 'wait for us' as WMF threat climbs Microsoft urged Windows users to wait for its official security patch for a graphics file vulnerability, but some security researchers favor installation of an unofficial patch now. Jan 3, 2006 Reporter's Notebook: Operating Systems Predictions about Microsoft's upcoming releases and more from national correspondent Carol Sliwa. Jan 2, 2006 WMF flaw can't wait for Microsoft fix, researchers say Security researchers are telling Windows users to install an unofficial patch without waiting for Microsoft to react to a new wave of attacks on a flaw in how the Windows OS handles malicious files in the Windows Metafile format. Jan 2, 2006 Windows WMF flaw: How to protect against attacks Although Microsoft has not yet released a patch for the WMF vulnerability, there are ways to protect your system and network from a potential attack. Jan 2, 2006 10 Predictions for 2006 The IDG News Service offers its picks for the coming year's top IT stories. Jan 2, 2006 Risk of Windows WMF attacks jumps 'significantly,' security firm warns Attempts to exploit a flaw in Windows WMF files have grown significantly in the last two days, according to a New Year's Day alert issued by security firm iDefense. Jan 1, 2006 For Many Windows Users, Vista Plans Aren't a Priority Several IT managers said they don't plan to start upgrading their PCs to Windows Vista until 2007, 2008 or even 2009, backing up the findings of a Forrester Research survey indicating that most large companies will be content to continue using Windows XP immediately after Vista ships late next year. Dec 19, 2005 Microsoft to use Firefox RSS icon in IE 7 Microsoft has decided to use the the orange RSS icon used in Firefox in the next version of the Internet Explorer Web browser. Dec 19, 2005 On Dasher! New malware targets Microsoft users Just in time for the holidays, a worm called Dasher has hit the Internet. The malicious software, which primarily targets Windows 2000 systems, is one of three new attacks targeting Microsoft Corp.'s software that has emerged in the past 24 hours. Dec 15, 2005 Microsoft releases cumulative security update for IE Microsoft's security update for December patches vulnerabilities in its Internet Explorer browser -- including one critical flaw for which exploit code is already available. Dec 13, 2005 When to upgrade: Tips for taking best advantage of Microsoft's release cycle Two Avanade consultants outline ways to calculate when to adopt an operating system upgrade and when it's better to let new software pass you by. Dec 13, 2005 Microsoft, MCI join forces to offer PC-to-phone services Microsoft and MCI will jointly offer a VoIP service that allows users to make calls from a PC to a phone. The service will compete with rival Skype Technologies' SkypeOut service. Dec 13, 2005 Microsoft tightening security defaults in IE 7 Microsoft plans to introduce several changes in how Internet Explorer 7 classifies Web sites for security, a move aimed at reducing the likelihood that users will fall victim to malicious code. Dec 12, 2005 Microsoft December patch release to include one critical update Microsoft plans to release two software security fixes -- one of them rated critical -- as part of its monthly release of security updates due out on Tuesday. Dec 9, 2005 Microsoft releases Windows Server 2003 R2 Microsoft Corp. released to manufacturing a long-awaited interim update to the current version of Windows Server OS, Windows Server 2003 R2. Dec 6, 2005 Analysis: Sony rootkit problem raises questions for security vendors Sony's copy-protection software technology went undetected by several major security vendors, who said they are now improving their ability to detect rootkits. Dec 4, 2005 Security firms warn of new Microsoft threats Two security firms this morning issued separate warnings about new threats against Microsoft software, including a vulnerability in Microsoft's SQL Sever 2000 database. Dec 2, 2005 Windows and Active Directory auditing If you are like most administrators, you want to know who is logging on to which computer and accessing resources on your servers. For your Windows computers and Active Directory environment, you have options to help you determine what you want to know. Dec 2, 2005 Microsoft under pressure for timely Vista release As it works to release Windows Vista next year, Microsoft is under pressure from customers who pay for operating system updates but feel they don't receive regular releases, analysts said. Dec 1, 2005 Hackers publish two more Windows attacks Most security experts expect Microsoft to patch the recently-publicized Internet Explorer flaw before it releases its next security update on Dec. 13. Dec 1, 2005 Microsoft plans more Vista previews The company will unveil working versions of its next-generation Windows operating system to key customers about once a month, an executive said. Nov 30, 2005 Attackers targeting unpatched IE bug, Microsoft warns Microsoft issued a warning that attackers could exploit a critical unpatched bug in Internet Explorer, first reported in May, and take over a user's computer. Nov 30, 2005 Quest extends Windows-Linux integration The company is developing a line of tools that extend Windows features to the Unix and Linux platforms. Nov 29, 2005 Three critical flaws found in Java The flaws are patched in a new release and affect the Windows, Unix and Linux platforms. Nov 29, 2005 Second sample of Windows attack code posted Hackers have released software that takes advantage of a Windows image-rendering bug and can cause an unpatched Windows PC to crash. Nov 29, 2005 Dear Bill Gates: Fixes and Features for Vista Opinion: Columnist Alexander B. Scoble describes his four Windows pet peeves and what he'd like Microsoft to do about them in its Vista release. Nov 28, 2005 Software group seeks role in Microsoft case The Free Software Foundation Europe (FSFE) has asked to be allowed to make arguments against Microsoft Corp. in part of its appeal against last year's antitrust ruling against it by the European Union's competition authority, the European Commission, an FSFE attorney said yesterday. Nov 25, 2005 Korea to rule on Microsoft antitrust case next week South Korea's Fair Trade Commission said yesterday it will delay a ruling in its antitrust case against Microsoft until Nov 30 while its committees continue deliberating. Nov 24, 2005 Sidebar: Streaming Competition Vendors are forming alliances that leverage complementary aspects of their operating system and application streaming approaches. Nov 21, 2005 Microsoft Set to Ship Great Plains Successor Microsoft will start shipping the successor to its Great Plains ERP suite, Dynamics 9.0, on Dec. 19. The new software is the first product produced under the Project Green effort. Nov 21, 2005 Microsoft vs. Google Opinion: Michael Gartenberg sees Office Live and Windows Live as Microsoft's attempt to get in on the Web 2.0 buzz without giving up its traditional rich applications approach. Nov 21, 2005 Sidebar: On-Demand Software Streaming for Desktops The pros and cons of on-demand software streaming tools for desktops. Nov 21, 2005 Streaming the Desktop Application streaming can create a virtualized desktop that is centrally manageable, yet it offers the speed of local execution. Nov 21, 2005 Software writers spy open-source code in Sony BMG CDs Controversial copy-protection software used by Sony BMG on music CDs appears to have tapped an open-source project, raising questions about copyright issues, software experts said today. Nov 18, 2005 Buying a PC or laptop this year? Keep Windows Vista in mind While retailers expect this yearÂ’s holiday shopping season to be good for PC sales, buyers may want to think ahead as Microsoft Corp. prepares to launch a new version of Windows in 2006. Nov 18, 2005 Microsoft warns of denial-of-service vulnerability Microsoft today issued a rare out-of-cycle advisory warning users about a newly disclosed denial-of-service vulnerability in Microsoft Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 and in Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 1. Nov 17, 2005 Microsoft offers Beta 2 of Compute Cluster Server 2003 Microsoft continues to edge toward high-performance computing, and today released the second beta of Windows Compute Cluster Server 2003. Nov 15, 2005 Microsoft updates plans for 64-bit computing Microsoft announced updates to both its Windows Server 2003 and Virtual Server 2005, pledging to commit itself to 64-bit computing. Nov 15, 2005 Microsoft to deliver Dynamics GP 9.0 in December Microsoft Business Solutions said today that it will release a retooled set of ERP applications, now called Microsoft Dynamics GP 9.0, on Dec. 19. Nov 15, 2005 Gates outlines supercomputing vision Addressing the Supercomputing 2005 conference, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates today predicted supercomputing systems that will cost less than $10,000 and said his company wants to play a more prominent role in the field. Nov 15, 2005 Gartner: Proceed with caution on Vista upgrade Gartner advises customers that they likely won't complete a full migration to Windows Vista until 2008, even though the next version of Microsoft's Windows client operating system is scheduled to ship at the end of 2006. Nov 15, 2005 Microsoft launches ‘licensing adviserÂ’ for business customers Microsoft Corp. has unveiled an online software licensing adviser to help volume businesses customers quickly compare various forms of licenses, their rights and their costs. Nov 14, 2005 Microsoft asks U.S. to intervene in EC antitrust case Microsoft officials are asking other U.S. companies to contact the Justice Department and ask the agency to help the software company in its European Commission antitrust case. Nov 14, 2005 Microsoft settles with S. Korean company for $30M Microsoft settled an antitrust dispute with South Korea's Daum Communications Corp.and agreed to provide a financial package worth $30 million to the portal operator. Nov 11, 2005 Slipstreaming Windows service packs Performing a clean install of Windows is no big deal, but reinstalling a version of Windows without a service pack on top of a copy of Windows that does contain a service pack can cause major problems. One solution is to create a Windows installation CD that already contains the service pack. In this article, I will show you how to create such a CD. Nov 10, 2005 Analyst: 1 million Windows users switch to Mac As many as 1 million Windows users may have switched to Macs this year -- prompted at least in part by the popularity of the company'siPod music player. Nov 10, 2005 Sony copy protection software raises security, privacy concerns Sony BMG is using the same techniques as spyware and virus writers to try to protect unauthorized copying of its music CDs -- a move that has angered some privacy advocates. Nov 9, 2005 Gates memo puts online services at heart of Microsoft In an e-mail to his top lieutenants, Bill Gates backs a sweeping plan to reshape Microsoft's development efforts to adapt to the threats and opportunities presented by the rapid growth of Internet-based services. Nov 9, 2005 Microsoft patches Windows graphics problem Microsoft has patched three flaws in the way its operating system processes Windows Metafile graphics. Nov 8, 2005 Italian police asked to probe Sony copy protection code An Italian digital rights group wants police to launch a criminal probe against Sony BMG over its use of controversial copy-protection software. And one security vendor now considers the software spyware. Nov 8, 2005 Sony XCP patch might crash Windows A software patch released last week by Sony BMG Music Entertainment amid concerns about its XCP CD copy protection software could cause some computers to crash, according to one computer expert. Nov 7, 2005 Centeris lays out open-source plans Linux server management start-up Centeris detailed plans to make a component of its Likewise software available for download from SourceForge.net on Nov. 18. Nov 3, 2005 Microsoft patches break some Web sites Microsoft Corp. said that two previous security updates related to ActiveX controls in Internet Explorer may stop some Web sites from loading correctly. Nov 3, 2005 CrossOver Office aims to ease a switch to Linux CodeWeavers' new CrossOver Office 5.0, released earlier this week, is designed to help Windows users switch to Linux without having to leave behind all of their favorite applications. Oct 28, 2005 Microsoft could pull Windows from S. Korea Microsoft is warning that it may have to withdraw Windows from the South Korean market if regulators there order it to remove code or redesign Windows. Oct 28, 2005 Microsoft Q1 profits up on Windows sales Pushed by brisk sales of its Windows software, Microsoft Corp. today reported an increase in quarterly profit but said revenue for the current quarter is likely to fall below Wall Street expectations. Oct 27, 2005 Judge questions Microsoft project delays A federal judge today scolded Microsoft lawyers about delays in a project intended to help the company comply with its 2002 antitrust settlement. Oct 26, 2005 Migrating apps is challenge for Munich Linux project The German city of Munich faces a big challenge in migrating its business applications to Linux, according to a project manager. Officials hope to have 80% of their apps moved to Linux by 2008. Oct 25, 2005 Microsoft reportedly sets date to release Windows Vista to OEMs Microsoft plans to ship Windows Vista to PC manufacturers on July 25, 2006, so they can install it on hardware in time for next year's holiday shopping season. Oct 24, 2005 Microsoft backs off on music player proposal Microsoft changed its position that portable music manufacturers distribute its Media Player software exclusively, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Oct 21, 2005 Microsoft reports second patch problem A second problem has been detected in Microsoft's latest round of security patches. The latest issue involves a critical patch relating to Microsoft's DirectShow streaming media software that may leave some Windows 2000 users unprotected. Oct 21, 2005 Understanding Microsoft's desktop migration tools Two Avanade consultants outline some of the features available in deployment software such as the free Solution Accelerator for Business Desktop Deployment. Oct 18, 2005 Microsoft updates Windows Vista beta Microsoft has rolled out another version of the Windows Vista beta software to Community Technology Preview users. The beta shows how Microsoft plans to improve networking and PC manageability in the next major release of Windows. Oct 18, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft Fixes 14 Flaws, 4 'Critical' Microsoft's security updates for October included fixes for four critical flaws in Windows and Internet Explorer. Oct 17, 2005 Users Rush to Plug Microsoft's Holes Many IT managers moved quickly to install Microsoft's monthly batch of security fixes, spurred on by fears of another Zotob-like worm outbreak as well as the almost-immediate release of proof-of-concept code for exploiting one of the newly disclosed flaws. Oct 17, 2005 Microsoft patch problematic for some, security firm says The SANS Internet Storm Center said today that it has received reports of users running into problems with a recent Microsoft patch designed to close a critical hole in Windows 2000. Oct 14, 2005 Exploit already available for Windows vulnerability The availability of an exploit targeting a recently disclosed flaw in Windows 2000 is fueling fears of another Zotob-like outbreak. Oct 13, 2005 File system planning for Active Directory 101 How to verify your file system configuration and what to do if you need to convert the file system for the Active Directory installation. Oct 11, 2005 Update: Microsoft reports three 'critical' Windows security flaws Security researchers are warning of a possible worm outbreak that could exploit vulnerabilities detailed in the release today of nine Microsoft security patches. Oct 11, 2005 Microsoft adopts virtual licenses Microsoft announced changes to the way it licenses Windows Server, SQL Server and other products for use on systems running virtualization software. For example, it will let users license products based on the number of processors they use, not the number of CPUs on their boxes. Oct 10, 2005 New Firefox beta released The Mozilla Foundation on Friday released a second beta of the Firefox 1.5 Web browser. While offering no new features, the new version focuses on security issues and improved performance. Oct 10, 2005 Windows XP SP3 preview surfaces on Web Site creator said he put together the preview pack from software updates he received from an internal Microsoft source that are expected to be released in SP3. Oct 6, 2005 Microsoft to combine virus, spyware protection Microsoft plans to launch a combined antivirus and antispyware product and expects to have a beta version of the software available for businesses by year's end. Oct 6, 2005 Microsoft confirms plans for third XP service pack Microsoft today confirmed that there will be a third service pack for the current version of Windows XP, but it offered no details on what it will include and said it won't be out until after the next version of Windows. Oct 6, 2005 European Commission appoints monitor in Microsoft antitrust case Neil Barrett, a British academic specializing in computer science and cybercrime, has been tapped by the European Commission to oversee its antitrust ruling against Microsoft Corp. Oct 5, 2005 Microsoft Ready to Go Mobile Opinion: Michael Gartenberg sees Windows Mobile 5.0 making Microsoft a major player in mobility. Oct 3, 2005 Trojan horse uses unpatched MS Office hole Microsoft is investigating a Trojan horse program that targets a flaw in Microsoft Office. Oct 3, 2005 Microsoft, JBoss link up to help shared users Microsoft and JBoss plan to work together on technical integration issues to help their joint customers run JBoss middleware on Windows Server. Sep 27, 2005 Palm's Windows Treo to arrive in early 2006 Palm Inc. today unveiled an upcoming Treo smart phone that runs Microsoft's Windows Mobile 5.0 and will be available in the U.S. early next year. Sep 26, 2005 With Reorg, Microsoft Aims to Make Itself More Nimble The reorganization of Microsoft into three divisions is an attempt to streamline the company's operations and speed up decision-making -- improvements that analysts said are necessary to make Microsoft more responsive to the needs of users. Sep 26, 2005 Some Users Bemoan Exclusivity of Vista Enterprise Plan The software vendor plans to offer an enterprise edition of Windows Vista exclusively to users that sign up for its controversial Software Assurance program -- a move that would leave other customers without access to new data encryption and global deployment tools. Sep 26, 2005 Microsoft at 30 turns to services, not software Analysts say the packaged software model will become obsolete, giving way to subscription models for services that customers buy to run the software they need. Sep 23, 2005 Another view of Vista Features include more memory via USB key drives and a new color management system. Sep 22, 2005 Analysis: Firefox faces challenges as it matures As Firefox nears its first birthday, the Mozilla Foundation faces significant challenges in keeping its popular Web browser competitive against the revamped Internet Explorer Microsoft is already working on. Sep 20, 2005 Microsoft reorganizes; Allchin to retire in 2006 Microsoft today realigned its business into three divisions, each with its own president, and announced Jim Allchin's planned retirement at the end of 2006. Allchin is group vice president of platforms. Sep 20, 2005 Update: Microsoft reorganizes; Allchin to retire in 2006 Microsoft realigned its business into three divisions, each with its own president, and announced Jim Allchin's planned retirement at the end of 2006. Allchin is group vice president of platforms. Sep 20, 2005 Analysis: Microsoft reorganization needed to end internal 'turf wars' Microsoft Corp.'s decision to consolidate six divisions into three -- each of them run by presidents who report to CEO Steve Ballmer -- makes sense for the company, industry analysts said today. Sep 20, 2005 Microsoft Unveils Vista Workflow Developer Microsoft introduced Windows Workflow Foundation, a set of tools for Windows Vista that can be used to build workflow-enabled applications. Sep 19, 2005 Sidebar: OS Security Remains a Top Priority Q&A: In an interview at the Microsoft Professional Developers Conference, company executive Jim Allchin said that improvements in software quality are Sep 19, 2005 Microsoft touts Software Assurance plan enhancements Companies interested in deploying the new enterprise edition of Windows Vista will need a Software Assurance upgrade protection and maintenance plan in place with Microsoft. Sep 16, 2005 Q&A Part 2: Allchin says big dreams for SQL Server 2005 a humbling lesson Jim Allchin, group vice president of platforms at Microsoft, also talked about changes the company has made to its software development efforts and discussed how much of Microsoft's resources goes to bolstering software security. Sep 16, 2005 PDC: Microsoft outlines new Longhorn features Microsoft today made available two new preview releases of forthcoming technology, including the latest build of Longhorn. Sep 15, 2005 Q&A: Microsoft's Jim Allchin touts Vista, new developer technologies Jim Allchin, group vice president of platforms at Microsoft Corp., offered up his vision for RSS, workflow and other new technologies with Computerworld at this week's Microsoft Professional Developers Conference. Sep 15, 2005 Update: Enterprise Vista customers must use Software Assurance Companies that want the Enterprise Edition of Microsoft's upcoming Windows Vista will have to sign up for the company's controversial Software Assurance licensing program. Sep 15, 2005 PDC: Gates debuts new Vista, Office features Microsoft's Bill Gates showed off new user interface features of Office and Windows in his Professional Developers Conference keynote speech yesterday. Sep 14, 2005 A first look at Longhorn Vista Earlier this month, I got my copy of Longhorn Vista, Beta 1, the eventual successor to Windows XP. Although the new operating system has a few kinks that need to be worked out, it looks promising. In this article, I will share with you some of my first impressions. Sep 14, 2005 Microsoft Maps New Midsize Market Strategy Microsoft outlined a product road map for midsize companies that includes a new server software infrastructure package, due in the next two to three years, and a suite of role-based business applications that should start appearing later this year. Sep 12, 2005 Sun Unveils 64-Bit Galaxy Server Line Sun Microsystems brought out its long-awaited Galaxy servers that are based on AMD's Opteron processors and run Unix, Linux and Windows. Sep 12, 2005 Sidebar: Windows Flaw Due to Be Patched Microsoft's monthly release of security patches will include just one fix, for an unidentified flaw in Windows. But the company is giving the vulnerability a critical severity rating. Sep 12, 2005 Microsoft scraps September security update A quality issue has forced Microsoft to cancel its monthly security update scehduled for tomorrow. Sep 12, 2005 How to use Microsoft’s shared computer toolkit The Shared Computer Toolkit for Windows was designed to help administrators better manage and secure public computers, such as those in kiosks, libraries, Internet cafes and schools. But the toolkit is useful for any situation in which several people use the same computer. Sep 9, 2005 Windows Server 2003 adds storage management Microsoft's R2 upgrade for Server 2003 includes many new storage resource and SAN management features. Sep 9, 2005 Munich delays Linux rollout to extend tests The city of Munich now expects to migrate 14,000 PCs running the Windows operating system and Microsoft Office applications to Linux and OpenOffice.org by mid-2006. Sep 7, 2005 Linux 40% cheaper than Windows, claims IBM Meanwhile, Unilever scales back big Linux migration because cost benefits have declined. Sep 6, 2005 Windows vs. Linux Contrary to overhyped and dramatic misconceptions, the real battles take place in smaller venues, where Windows wins sometimes and Linux pulls off its share of victories with little fanfare. Sep 6, 2005 Easy fixes for common Windows XP problems This excerpt from Brian Culp's Spring Into Windows XP Service Pack 2 offers advice on diagnosing slow performance, solving program incompatibility problems and disabling pop-up balloons. Sep 1, 2005 Microsoft adds antiphishing tool to IE Microsoft is expected to release an add-in for its MSN Search Toolbar today designed to detect whether users are landing on phishing sites. Aug 31, 2005 Microsoft offers preview of next Windows Server release Microsoft yesterday released Windows Server 2003 Release Candidate Zero, offering an early look at technology that will be included in a future version by the end of the year, Aug 31, 2005 Secunia: Malware may hide behind long names in Windows registry An error in how the Windows Registry Editor Utility handles long string names could allow malware to lurk undetected on updated and patched Windows systems, according to IT security company Secunia. Aug 30, 2005 Microsoft releases Windows file system beta Microsoft has released a test version of its next-generation file system, WinFS, to Microsoft Developer Network subscribers. The software wasn't expected until sometime next year. Aug 29, 2005 Microsoft Puts Price on Virtual Server Upgrade Microsoft said it will release an R2 upgrade of its Virtual Server 2005 virtualization software by year's end, a shift from its earlier plan to offer the upgrade to users as a free service pack. Aug 29, 2005 Authorities make arrests linked to recent worm spate Police in Turkey and Morocco have arrested suspects involved in last week's spate of worms targeting Microsoft's Windows 2000 operating system. Aug 26, 2005 Microsoft to release antiphishing tool before IE 7 Microsoft plans to release an antiphishing tool before the release of the next version of its Web browser, Internet Explorer 7, as an add-on to the MSN Search Toolbar. Aug 26, 2005 Microsoft outlines changes in Virtual Server plans Microsoft disclosed plans to release a for-fee Aug 25, 2005 Zotob worm also targets Windows XP Some PCs running Windows XP Service Pack 1 are also vulnerable to the Zotob worm, Microsoft said. Aug 24, 2005 Windows XP also has plug-and-play vulnerability Some PCs running Windows XP Service Pack 1 are also vulnerable to the Zotob worm, Microsoft said. Aug 24, 2005 New Novell tools link Linux, Windows systems Novell this week plans to ship its ZENworks 7 Suite, which will include expanded Linux management capabilities and give IT staffers the ability to monitor and manage Windows PCs from Linux servers. Aug 22, 2005 Hackers Beating Efforts to Patch Software Flaws Last week's worm outbreak highlights the need for IT to implement measures to proactively deal with new software vulnerabilities instead of just depending on patches to fix them, security experts said. Aug 22, 2005 Sidebar: Patching Efforts Help Users Fend Off Worms Few of the Windows 2000 users polled by Computerworld reported any substantial impact on their systems from Zotob and the other worms released last week, thanks to vigilant patching efforts aided in some cases by the use of automated patching tools. Aug 22, 2005 Microsoft may drop proposed RSS name Microsoft backed away from using Aug 18, 2005 Worm wave highlights need for speedier defenses The speed at which malicious code-writers attacked recent vulnerabilities shows the urgency of re-thinking enterprise security strategies, analysts say. Now, taking time to test and analyze patches before deployment could leave companies vulnerable. Aug 18, 2005 IE flaw affects Office, Visual Studio users Security researchers have discovered an unpatched bug in Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser that could affect Office and Visual Studio users. Aug 18, 2005 Computer virus writers at war, security firm says Virus-writing gangs are turning out new worms that are beginning to attack each other, says software security company F-Secure. Aug 17, 2005 New worms hit U.S. media outlets, companies Several new computer worms targeting Microsoft's Windows 2000 operating system were blamed for causing computer system outages at some media outlets and companies in the U.S. yesterday. Aug 17, 2005 Virus writers moving faster with attacks As U.S. media companies and other corporations hit by computer viruses this week got back to normal, analysts warned the attacks showed hackers have gained an advantage in speed in the battle over network security. Aug 17, 2005 Exploits on the loose for latest Microsoft bugs Exploit code for a number of recently patched Windows and IE bugs is now circulating. Aug 15, 2005 Open-Source Virtualization Beckons Users at LinuxWorld A look at the upcoming version of the Xen open-source virtual machine software attracted a slew of Linux users at last week's LinuxWorld show. Aug 15, 2005 Update: New Internet worm affects Windows users An Internet worm called Zotob has been detected that can infect Microsoft's Windows systems faster than previous computer worms, according to antivirus software maker Trend Micro. Aug 15, 2005 Scottish police dump StarOffice for Windows A Scottish police unit is replacing Sun's StarOffice suite with Microsoft Office, a move officials say will improve integration and cut maintenance and administrative costs. Aug 12, 2005 Microsoft's 'HoneyMonkey' effort could presage URL filtering bid A Microsoft research project to unearth malicious Web sites could lead to URL filtering products from the company down the road. Aug 11, 2005 New Microsoft security system scours Web Microsoft has released details on a new security program that uses automated Aug 10, 2005 Microsoft to reissue Windows 2000 SP4 update Microsoft plans to re-release Update Rollup 1 for Windows 2000 Service Pack 4 due to user-reported problems. Aug 9, 2005 LinuxWorld SF: IBM realigns Linux sales effort Company exec says Linux deployments have transitioned from being a cost-effective replacement for existing systems to the Aug 9, 2005 Microsoft patches three 'critical' Windows flaws Microsoft Corp. warned Windows users today of three new Aug 9, 2005 Fujitsu Builds Tablet PC Support Into Notebook Fujitsu is announcing a faster model of its LifeBook PC and adding a new twist to the lightweight mobile system: the ability to convert it into a Tablet PC device that offers touch-screen and handwriting-recognition capabilities. Aug 8, 2005 Sidebar: Hackers Bypass Microsoft's Antipiracy Checks Microsoft said hackers were quickly able to find and exploit a flaw in a new tool that checks to see if copies of Windows are valid before allowing users to download software updates. Aug 8, 2005 Microsoft: No Monad scripting in first Windows Vista A day after reports that viruses had been written for an upcoming feature in Microsoft Corp.'s upcoming Windows Vista operating system, the company said it will not include the feature in the first release of the operating system next year. Aug 8, 2005 Microsoft to release six patches, some 'critical,' next week Microsoft plans to release six software patches next Tuesday for flaws in its Windows operating system, along with an updated version of its Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool and a nonsecurity update for the operating system. Aug 4, 2005 First Windows Vista viruses unleashed An Austrian hacker has written what are thought to be the first known viruses for Microsoft's upcoming Windows Vista operating system. The viruses take advantage of a new command shell, code-named Monad, included in the Windows Vista beta code. Aug 4, 2005 Microsoft to release six patches, some 'critical' Microsoft plans to release six software patches Tuesday for flaws in its Windows operating system, along with an updated version of its Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool and a nonsecurity update for the operating system. Aug 4, 2005 Hack cracks Microsoft antipiracy check Hackers have already found a way to bypass a process implemented just last week to ensure that users of Microsoft's update services have legitimate copies of Windows. Aug 1, 2005 Trademark Arrogance Editorial: Microsoft's maniacal protection of its own trademarks makes it doubly unacceptable for it to run roughshod over the trademarks of other companies. Aug 1, 2005 Microsoft Issues OS Betas, Details More Features for IT The software vendor released the first beta copies of Windows Vista to a limited number of developers and corporate users and detailed some IT-friendly tools that will be in the operating system, which was formerly code-named Longhorn. Aug 1, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft Plans Premium Editions of Windows, Office As part of Microsoft's effort to drive more revenue growth, the software vendor is developing plans to introduce premium versions of Windows and Office at both the client and server levels. Aug 1, 2005 Microsoft details features for IT after OS beta release Microsoft, which this week released the first beta copies of Windows Vista to a limited number of developers and corporate users, detailed some IT-friendly tools that will be in the operating system. Jul 29, 2005 Microsoft plans 'premium' editions of Windows, Office As part of its effort to drive more revenue growth, Microsoft is developing plans to introduce premium versions of Windows and Office at both the client and server levels. Jul 29, 2005 Security vendors holding off on 64-bit Windows Companies looking to become early adopters of Microsoft's Windows x64 Edition operating systems may have to wait until 2006 for their favorite antivirus software to work on their new desktops. Jul 27, 2005 Corvette relies on mesh network for LeMans win Motorola partnered with General Motors at the 24 Hours of LeMans endurance race last month to create a mesh network that was able to transmit maintenance data from a race car to the pit crew while the car was going 200 mph. Jul 27, 2005 Microsoft releases Windows Vista, IE 7 for XP betas Windows Vista beta code is being offered to about 10,000 technical beta participants, which include customers, partners, home users and subscribers of Microsoft Developer Network and TechNet. Jul 27, 2005 Microsoft could face trademark fight over Vista OS name John Wall, CEO of Vista Inc., said his company is Jul 26, 2005 Microsoft requires Windows piracy checks Microsoft today is launching a program requiring customers to validate that they are using legitimate copies of the Windows operating system before they can download Windows updates or new content. Jul 26, 2005 Study: Apple's OS making inroads with business Apple's Unix-based Mac OS X operating system is gaining ground in the business community, according to market research firm Jupitermedia. Jul 22, 2005 Update: Microsoft's Longhorn becomes Windows Vista Microsoft has announced the official name for its upcoming operating system, known until now as Longhorn. The OS, due out next year, will be called Windows Vista. Jul 22, 2005 Microsoft Q4 profit up While Microsoft today said its fourth-quarter profit rose on strong demand for laptops, PCs and servers, its revenue forecast for the current quarter fell below Wall Street analysts' estimates. Jul 21, 2005 ITunes worm is Windows spyware threat An initial signal indicating that Apple's success with iTunes may soon attract hackers has emerged, according to a security firm. Jul 20, 2005 Microsoft warns of remote access protocol flaw Microsoft is warning users that a flaw in the software used to remotely access computers running the Windows OS could leave them vulnerable to a denial-of-service attack. Jul 18, 2005 Trend Micro lowers forecast, blames software bug Trend Micro Inc. said that a bug in its own software that affected thousands of customers has cost the company $8 million, forcing it to lower its revenue and profit forecasts for the quarter running April to June. Jul 14, 2005 Microsoft patches IE, Word, Windows Microsoft today released three patches for critical security flaws in the Internet Explorer Web browser, Microsoft Word and a feature of the Windows operating system used by a variety of applications. Jul 12, 2005 Ballmer rallies partners, targets IBM, Novell Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer rallied attendees at the vendor's annual partner conference, encouraging them to take aim at legacy groupware and networking packages such as IBM's Lotus Notes and Novell NetWare. Jul 11, 2005 Microsoft's Server Promo Targets Midsize Companies Microsoft last week took aim at midsize companies with a Windows Server System promotion combining its operating system, mail server and system monitoring software. Jul 11, 2005 Microsoft looks to partners for Office push Microsoft is looking to promote customer upgrades and new sales of its Office suite and plans to boost the number of salespeople selling its productivity software. Jul 8, 2005 Microsoft targets midsize companies with server promotion Microsoft today is taking aim at midsize companies with a Windows Server System promotion that combines its operating system, mail server and system monitoring software. Jul 7, 2005 Microsoft readies critical Windows, Office updates Microsoft said today that it plans to release three software patches next Tuesday covering critical software flaws in its Windows operating system and Microsoft Office software suite. Jul 7, 2005 NAT Traversal (NAT-T) Security Issues In this article, we’ll look at how NAT-T (Network Address Translation-Traversal) works and the security issues involved. I'll also help you decide whether to take the risk, and show you how to restore XP’s ability to connect to servers behind a NAT if you choose to do so. Jul 6, 2005 Evaluating a new security policy There was a time when it wasn’t all that risky to try out new security settings on production servers, but operating systems have become much more complex since then. Today, even changing something as simple as the required password length can have side effects elsewhere in the system. In this article, I will explain how to evaluate a new security policy in a safe and responsible manner. Jul 6, 2005 Microsoft solidifies software launch plans for Nov. 7 Microsoft plans to launch Visual Studio 2005, SQL Server 2005 and BizTalk Server 2006 on Nov. 7 and today released new report packs for SQL Server and technology aimed at making its products more interoperable with other vendors' software. Jul 5, 2005 German teenager admits in court to creating Sasser worm Sven Jaschan, the 19-year-old German who last year admitted creating the Sasser worm, faces charges of computer sabotage, data manipulation and disruption of public systems. Jul 5, 2005 Fake Microsoft security alert includes Trojan patch A new wave of spam that appears to be a Microsoft security bulletin actually contains a link to malicious software that could give attackers complete access to an infected machine, according to security researchers. Jun 30, 2005 As support fades, Microsoft offers Win2000 update Microsoft has released a Jun 29, 2005 Norway throws weight behind open-source A leading government IT official in Norway is calling on all government institutions to have plans by the end of next year for the use of open-source software. Jun 29, 2005 Microsoft, Toshiba may tie Windows CE and HD-DVD Microsoft and Toshiba plan to explore ways of using Microsoft Windows CE technology in new high-definition optical disc players. Jun 27, 2005 Microsoft to extend RSS support for lists Microsoft plans to extend the RSS (Really Simple Syndication) standard to better support the publishing of ordered lists of information, a company spokesman said yesterday. Jun 24, 2005 Experts split on Port 445 security risk More than a week after Microsoft patched 10 security flaws in its software, security experts are divided on whether an attack that exploits one of those flaws may be coming. Jun 24, 2005 Microsoft expands indemnification program for partners Microsoft has expanded a program designed to help protect PC makers and other partners against intellectual property legal battles related to the use of its software. Jun 23, 2005 Microsoft offers Windows Server 2003 SP1 blocking tool Microsoft is offering a free tool kit that temporarily blocks the delivery of Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 to subscribers of Automatic Updates. Jun 22, 2005 Increased port 'sniffing' could herald attack, Gartner warns Increased Jun 22, 2005 Microsoft to sell Sybari antivirus software separately Microsoft plans to offer a host of Sybari products for Windows, including Antigen for Microsoft Exchange, Antigen for Microsoft SharePoint Portal Server and Windows SharePoint Services, Antigen for Instant Messaging and Antigen for SMTP Gateways. Jun 21, 2005 The ROI of open source Bernard Golden of open-source consultancy Navica says open-source software can provide ROI in projects other than Windows-to-Linux operating system swaps. Jun 20, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft Patches Critical Holes in IE, Windows In its monthly patch release, Microsoft issued three software fixes rated Jun 20, 2005 Microsoft Pushes Ahead on Virtualization, Clustering In an interview at Microsoft's TechEd 2005 conference, Bob Muglia, who heads the company's Windows Server division, disclosed further details about long-term plans to build virtualization capabilities into the operating system and offer a version of Windows for clustered systems. Jun 20, 2005 Judge may be removed in EU Microsoft case The top judge in the European Union's antitrust case against Microsoft Corp. may be transferred after referring to other judges' clerks in the case as Jun 20, 2005 Shark Tank: At least the security is good These community health care clinics have received new PCs for a special Jun 15, 2005 Microsoft offers three 'critical' patches in monthly security update As part of its monthly security update, Microsoft today released three critical security updates to fix flaws in the Windows operating system and the Internet Explorer Web browser. Jun 14, 2005 Microsoft security updates to cover Windows, Exchange Microsoft plans to release critical security updates as part of its monthly security release, scheduled for Tuesday. Jun 10, 2005 Microsoft to ship modified Windows XP next week Microsoft will begin distributing a version of its Windows XP operating system without its media player software to PC makers in Europe next week. Retail stores will get the modified operating system on July 1. Jun 8, 2005 Microsoft releases software update tools Microsoft today made available its much-delayed Windows Server Update Services patching tool and Microsoft Update software patching service; two other update tools are due out next month. Jun 6, 2005 Microsoft nears deal with EU watchdog Microsoft moved a step closer to ending a lengthy fight with the European Union's antitrust watchdog today, winning praise for proposals it has offered that comply with demands for server interoperability. Jun 6, 2005 It's official: Apple shifting to Intel chips Apple said it would move all of its flagship Macintosh computers to Intel processors by the end of 2007. Jun 6, 2005 Microsoft server software challenges Linux offerings Both operating systems are growing strong, but Linux is starting from a much smaller base, IDC report says. May 31, 2005 Linux Muscles Into Microsoft's Space Opinion: Douglas Schweitzer compares Linux and Windows for business and gives the open-source operating system the nod. May 30, 2005 Microsoft courts mainframe shops, pushes Windows use At its first Mainframe Migration Conference, Microsoft claimed that it's making progress in convincing mainframe users to switch to Windows servers. Analysts were skeptical, but some IT managers said such a move makes sense for them. May 30, 2005 Microsoft: New Netscape breaks IE Microsoft is advising users of Netscape 8 to either uninstall the software or edit their computer's registry files because of a bug in America Online Inc.'s new browser. May 27, 2005 EC gives Microsoft until June 1 to agree on sanctions Microsoft has until June 1 to reach an agreement with the European Commission on how it will meet antitrust sanctions imposed against it, or face a fine of $5 million per day. May 23, 2005 Tech vendors align against Microsoft in EU case A group of five large technology vendors known as the European Committee for Interoperable Systems will be allowed to take part in the antitrust fight between Microsoft Corp. and the European Commission. May 23, 2005 Netscape patches new browser Just hours after the newest version of Netscape was officially launched, a patch was released that fixes more than 40 security holes. May 20, 2005 Microsoft updates Web hosting tools Microsoft is offering new Web hosting tools for integrating Web blogging and site building applications with Windows-based Hosting Version 3.5. May 17, 2005 Microsoft Unveils Win Mobile 5.0 Microsoft's Bill Gates introduced Windows Mobile 5.0 and confirmed plans to ship a new Office version next year at the company's annual Mobile and Embedded Systems Developer Conference in Las Vegas. May 16, 2005 Gored by Longhorn Opinion: As the features in the next version of Windows come into focus, some vendors could be threatened by Longhorn's thundering hoofbeats, writes Robert L. Mitchell. May 16, 2005 Microsoft Exec Says No Big Licensing Changes on Horizon Four years to the month after Microsoft announced its controversial Licensing 6.0 program, the executive who now is in charge of the company's software pricing said there are no plans for a major revamp of its licensing policies. May 16, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft Simplifies Software Usage Rights Guide Microsoft is streamlining the product use rights document that it gives to customers from 107 pages to 44 as part of an ongoing effort to reduce the complexity of its software licensing policies. May 16, 2005 Microsoft Plans Lean Version of XP The software vendor confirmed that it's developing a stripped-down release of Windows XP for corporate and government users who are still running aging versions of the operating system and don't want to buy new hardware. May 16, 2005 Office to become front-end option for more app users Microsoft this week announced agreements with Interwoven and i2 Technologies that will let users access their applications from Office, furthering its efforts to entrench the software with corporate users. May 13, 2005 Microsoft readies PC security, tools bundle Microsoft is working on a new security product, dubbed Windows OneCare, that offers consumers virus and spyware protection, a new firewall and several tuneup tools for Windows PCs. May 13, 2005 New Microsoft Office release coming in 2006 Microsoft next year plans to release a new version of its Office suite, offering enhancements in areas such as workflow capabilities, rights management, advanced scheduling, document sharing and business intelligence. May 11, 2005 Microsoft releases patch to fix remote code-execution hole In its monthly update, Microsoft released a patch to repair an May 10, 2005 'Robin Hoods' who cost Microsoft millions go to jail Three Britons were jailed today for their role in a global gang of May 6, 2005 Microsoft recruits bloggers to preview Longhorn Microsoft Corp. is forming a team of bloggers who will get early access to prereleases of Longhorn and will be asked to review the operating system. May 4, 2005 SANS study: Hackers aren't just picking on Microsoft While hackers continued to poke holes in Microsoft's ubiquitous Windows operating system, they also began exploiting flaws in software from other companies, too, according to the nonprofit SANS Institute. May 2, 2005 Increasing security with limited user accounts and restricted groups In this article, we’ll talk about the differences between the built-in and default local account types, and the differences between local and domain user accounts. Then we’ll discuss how you can increase security by creating customized limited user accounts and using restricted groups. May 2, 2005 Microsoft organizes Longhorn for easier data access, searches Although Microsoft has been investing in search technology, its upcoming operating system, code-named Longhorn, will take a new tack when it comes to helping users locate desktop files. Apr 29, 2005 Users say move to 64-bit will be gradual Users expect to move server applications to 64-bit systems first but believe it will take years before 64-bit computing is pervasive at their companies. Apr 29, 2005 Microsoft details plan to put virtualization in OS At its WinHEC conference, Microsoft detailed a server virtualization road map that includes Apr 29, 2005 Microsoft looks to create more 'standard' users For security, Microsoft wants more business users to work under standard settings in Longhorn. Apr 28, 2005 Microsoft slams XP in call for Longhorn support In an effort to sell hardware makers on new technologies planned for Longhorn, Microsoft officials yesterday bad-mouthed its own work in Windows XP. Apr 27, 2005 Microsoft aims Longhorn's 'Metro' at Adobe The next version of Windows will include a new document format called Metro to print and share documents, a move that appears to rival Adobe Systems' PostScript and PDF technologies. Apr 26, 2005 Microsoft and SAP to link Office with ERP SAP AG and Microsoft Corp. plan to deliver a jointly developed product that links SAP's ERP software and Microsoft's Office products. Apr 26, 2005 WinHEC conference to spotlight 64-bit computing Microsoft is expected to ring in what it calls the third decade of Windows with the launch of 64-bit server and desktop versions of the operating system. Apr 25, 2005 Microsoft Aims to Boost Deployment, Availability Q&A: Jim Allchin, Microsoft's group vice president of platforms, detailed some of the IT-oriented features that will be in the Longhorn version of Windows and discussed some of the benefits that he expects users to get from 64-bit computing. Apr 25, 2005 Unisys Offers Long-Distance Fail-over Unisys debuted a long-distance data recovery system, the first offering in its Real-Time Infrastructure initiative, which is its answer to the on-demand and adaptive computing strategies already announced by other IT vendors. Apr 25, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft Drops System Center Integration Plan The software vendor said it no longer plans to combine its management tools into a single product offering called System Center. Instead, System Center will simply become the umbrella term for the company's line of management products. Apr 25, 2005 Users Are Left Unclear About Microsoft's Model Approach Microsoft executives said the company's Dynamic Systems Initiative strategy for managing Windows applications has begun coming to fruition. But several users said they're confused about the strategy and skeptical about the model-based management approach at its core. Apr 25, 2005 Merrill Lynch CIO survey sees IT spending stable in Q2 IT spending is likely to remain stable in the second quarter of the year, according to a new Merrill Lynch snapshot survey of 100 global CIOs. Apr 25, 2005 Microsoft to ship 32-bit version of Longhorn server Microsoft previously committed to shipping both 32-bit and x64 versions of the Longhorn client but had not shared a full list of hardware platforms it would support with the server version of the operating system. Apr 21, 2005 Q&A: Microsoft VP says customers disliked System Center vision Kirill Tatarinov, vice president of Microsoft's Windows and enterprise management division, said customer opposition prompted the company to scrap plans to integrate Systems Management Server and Microsoft Operations Manager into a product called System Center. Apr 20, 2005 Microsoft preparing Windows XP-based thin clients Microsoft is working on two thin-client versions of Windows XP that will cost less than XP Professional Edition but offer the same management features and broad array of hardware drivers. Apr 20, 2005 California cities, counties lose Microsoft suit A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by several California cities and counties accusing Microsoft of overcharging for its products, but will allow the plaintiffs to amend a part of their claims. Apr 19, 2005 Microsoft revises System Center plans Microsoft plans to officially announce its new System Center branding strategy at its fourth annual Microsoft Management Summit in Las Vegas this week. Apr 18, 2005 Q&A Part 2: Microsoft's Allchin dispels myths on 64-bit computing Microsoft's Jim Allchin, group vice president of platforms at the software vendor, wants to dispel the idea that 64-bit computing is helpful only for big database servers and CAD applications. Apr 18, 2005 SP2 Blocking Tool Expires on Windows XP Microsoft stopped supporting a tool that let Automatic Updates users skip downloading Service Pack 2 while getting other critical updates. SP2 will be automatically installed as part of the update program. Apr 18, 2005 Q&A: Microsoft's Jim Allchin talks up Longhorn With a preview release of the next major Windows release due out later this month, Jim Allchin, group vice president of platforms at Microsoft, talked about what the operating system will offer IT users. Apr 15, 2005 Sneak peek: Longhorn search capability previewed Microsoft Corp. offered an early peek at Longhorn's file navigation and search capabilities this week -- and fired a shot across the bow of emerging desktop search tool vendors. Apr 15, 2005 Second Windows Server 2003 R2 beta to start soon Microsoft plans to launch a larger test of its OS update later this month. Apr 13, 2005 Windows XP SP2 blocking tool expires today A tool that blocks the download of Service Pack 2 on Windows XP PCs will expire today, ending the last SP2 reprieve for Windows Automatic Updates users. Apr 12, 2005 Microsoft files eight lawsuits over counterfeiting Microsoft has filed eight lawsuits in the U.S. alleging copyright and trademark infringement against computer systems builders and resellers for allegedly distributing counterfeit software and software components. Apr 11, 2005 Microsoft's Problem: XP's Good Enough Opinion: Michael Gartenberg foresees a problem for Microsoft when it finally releases Longhorn: XP is good enough. Apr 11, 2005 Fujitsu Launches Itanium Servers for Linux, Windows Fujitsu unveiled its PrimeQuest systems based on Intel's 64-bit Itanium 2 processor, saying that the new line represents its next generation of mainframes -- but will run under Linux and Windows. Apr 11, 2005 Critical Microsoft patches coming Tuesday Microsoft on Tuesday plans to issue eight security alerts with patches, some critical, for Windows, Office, MSN Messenger and Exchange. Apr 8, 2005 Antivirus firm warns of Microsoft security Trojan horse Malicious hackers are using the promise of Windows security patches to lure Internet users to a Web page that installs a Trojan horse program. Apr 8, 2005 Microsoft gets more 'facts' for anti-Linux campaign It adds reliability of Windows vs. Linux to its Apr 6, 2005 Microsoft plugs Tablet PC with free applications They include Ink Desktop, which lets users take notes using the Tablet PC pen directly on their desktop, Snipping Tool version 2, which lets users select and capture part of their screen, and Ink Art, a drawing application. Apr 5, 2005 Study shows Microsoft, Linux costs neck-and-neck Yankee Group analyst says application development and security are main cost factors, not the core functionality of the operating system. Apr 5, 2005 Microsoft Fills Security Gaps in OS Update Almost two years after it launched Windows Server 2003, Microsoft released the initial service pack update for the operating system, adding a firewall and several other security tools that users previously had to buy from third-party vendors. Apr 4, 2005 Microsoft to respond to EC over licensing Microsoft is due to respond this week to the European Commission's request for more acceptable workgroup server protocol licensing terms. Apr 4, 2005 Log-on type codes revealed The log-on/log-off category of the Windows security log gives you the ability to monitor all attempts to access the local computer. This article examines each log-on type and shows how some other fields in Logon/Logoff events can be helpful for understanding the nature of a given log-on attempt. Apr 1, 2005 Microsoft fills security gaps with OS update Almost two years after it launched Windows Server 2003, Microsoft released the initial service pack update for the operating system, adding a firewall and several other security tools that users previously had to buy from third-party vendors. Apr 1, 2005 New bugs found in Outlook, Internet Explorer Microsoft is investigating potentially serious security flaws in its Internet Explorer and Outlook applications that could allow an attacker to take control over a user's system. Apr 1, 2005 Microsoft gives Blaster author a break on damages Jeffrey Lee Parson, a 19-year-old convicted of creating a variant of the Blaster worm, will have to work 75 hours per year over a three-year period with less fortunate members of his community. Mar 31, 2005 Microsoft expands Windows piracy check on downloads Microsoft plans to require users who want to download local-language add-ons to Windows to first authenticate their copy of the operating system, blocking access for users of pirated copies. Mar 31, 2005 Windows Server gets security boost with service pack Microsoft yesterday released Service Pack 1 for Windows Server 2003. The service pack offers all of the updates released for Windows Server 2003 since it shipped, along with security, reliability and performance enhancements. Mar 31, 2005 The Windows archive bit is evil and must be stopped Opinion: The loophole allows any user to squelch backup systems, says SNW Online columnist W. Curtis Preston. Mar 31, 2005 Microsoft agrees to EC's Windows changes The software maker agreed to make the main changes to the Media Player-free version of Windows requested by the European Commission. Mar 29, 2005 Global Dispatches Sun's dormant U.K. user group is relaunched. European antitrust authorities give Microsoft two weeks to improve its licensing terms for Windows protocols. Mar 28, 2005 Sidebar: Novell CEO Predicts Backlash Against Microsoft Q&A: In an interview at Novell's BrainShare conference, CEO Jack Messman said that he thinks the company's focus on Linux and Mar 28, 2005 Novell preps Linux Desktop 10 Novell officials said the company's upcoming Linux Desktop 10 will lift the application suite from its current role targeting specific workgroups to mainstream enterprise deployment. Mar 23, 2005 GreenBorder offers security 'barrier' for IE, Outlook Start-up GreenBorder Technologies yesterday made its debut with desktop software aimed at preventing spyware and virus contamination from the Internet for users of Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer browser and Outlook e-mail. Mar 23, 2005 Q&A: Novell CEO touts Linux, identity products In an interview with Computerworld, Novell CEO Jack Messman discusses the company's Linux and Mar 22, 2005 Symantec: Macintosh hacker attacks on the rise Many in the Macintosh community have long claimed that the Mac platform has been virtually immune to attack, but that is not necessarily true, according to a new study from security firm Symantec. Mar 22, 2005 Microsoft nears completion of corporate patch server Microsoft today issued a release candidate for its Windows Server Update Services and launched the beta program for Microsoft Update, a public, Web-based patch-download site and the replacement for the current Windows Update. Mar 22, 2005 MCI adds thousands of wireless hot spots MCI plans a major expansion of the number of wireless hot spots available across the globe to large-business consumers, including 3,400 new hot spots in the U.S. in May. Mar 22, 2005 EC gives Microsoft two weeks to comply The European Commission isn't happy with the terms Microsoft proposed for allowing programmers to license protocols so they can develop products that interoperate with Windows. Mar 21, 2005 MIT official advocates open-source on computers for poor in Brazil The director of MIT's Media Lab is urging Brazilian officials to install open-source software on thousands of computers being sold to the poor, saying proprietary software like that offered by Microsoft may be less attractive. Mar 18, 2005 Microsoft considering WinFS support in Windows XP Although Microsoft plans to support key Longhorn technologies in Windows XP and Windows Server 2003, the company has said the next Windows release will still be worth the upgrade because of the core operating system technologies. Mar 15, 2005 Exchange Road Map It's not too soon for IT pros to lay groundwork for implementing features in upcoming Exchange Server 2003 SP2 and Mar 15, 2005 Burst, Microsoft reach tentative settlement in antitrust case Burst.com had filed its lawsuit against Microsoft in 2002, alleging that the software vendor stole patented technology and trade secrets concerning Internet-based video-on-demand for its Windows Media Player. Mar 11, 2005 Microsoft to buy Groove Networks Microsoft is buying Groove Networks, which makes a wide range of software and development tools to allow geographically dispersed workers to collaborate over the Internet. Mar 10, 2005 Apple: Here to Stay Editorial: Microsoft's dominance over Apple all these years shows that the best technology doesn't always win. But don't write Apple off. Mar 7, 2005 Microsoft researchers target worms, buffer overflows At its fifth annual TechFest this week, Microsoft researchers presented about 150 projects they're working on, including technology to stop Internet worms, block hacker attacks and measure bandwidth on home networks. Mar 4, 2005 Microsoft says no new security patches this month Microsoft said today it doesn't plan to release any security bulletins or patches this month, only the second time that has happened since December 2003. Mar 4, 2005 64-bit Windows client and server coming in late April The 64-bit systems offer greater computing power because they can process more data per clock cycle and use larger amounts of memory. Mar 3, 2005 Wells Fargo Web-enables 6,200 ATMs Wells Fargo & Co. has completed a five-year project to Web-enable 6,200 ATMs in 23 states using a Windows-based infrastructure that allows the company to update and add services such as new languages and envelope-free deposits to its network remotely. Mar 3, 2005 Appeals court reverses $520M Eolas ruling An appeals court has thrown out a $520.6 million judgment against Microsoft and ordered a new trial in a patent infringement dispute brought by Eolas Technologies. Mar 2, 2005 Firefox gaining market share at slower pace After an initial gain in market share following the release of Firefox 1.0 in November, the open-source Web browser continues to gain users -- but at a slower pace, new research shows. Mar 1, 2005 New Bagle variants combine spam, Trojans A new Bagle variant, Bagle.BB, is spreading in massive spam e-mail campaigns. It's different from past versions in that it sends out e-mails with Trojan horse programs attached to them, according to one antivirus expert. Mar 1, 2005 Internet Explorer 7.0 not just for Windows XP SP2 The next version of Microsoft's Web browser, Internet Explorer 7.0, will be available for Windows Server 2003 with Service Pack 1 and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Mar 1, 2005 Sidebar: Microsoft's New Browser Plan Miffs Win2k Users Users who want to install the upcoming Internet Explorer 7.0 will have to be running Windows XP Service Pack 2 or future Windows releases -- a requirement that doesn't make some IT managers happy, especially those whose companies still rely on Windows 2000. Feb 28, 2005 Users Get Going on SP2 Rollouts IT managers at many companies have held off on deploying Windows XP Service Pack 2 while they tested the security-oriented update's compatibility with their applications. But now, a lot of corporate users say they have started installing SP2 or are close to finishing their tests. Feb 28, 2005 Silence fuels speculation on Microsoft security plan Microsoft silence silence about its Next-Generation Secure Computing Base architecture is raising questions about whether the technology has been put on the shelf or even dropped. Feb 24, 2005 Microsoft to unveil IM, videoconferencing tools Microsoft plans to lay out its Real Time Collaboration plans and technologies, including tools for instant messaging and videoconferencing, at an event on March 8. Feb 24, 2005 Sidebar: Linux Struggles for Desktop Acceptance Linux vendors continue to tout the desktop versions of their software, but more than 40 IT managers who were interviewed at LinuxWorld or polled via e-mail or telephone all said that they don't have plans for widespread deployments of the open-source operating system at the client level. Feb 21, 2005 RSA: Microsoft on 'rootkits': Be afraid, be very afraid Microsoft security researchers said this week that a new generation of system monitoring programs called rootkits could soon be used to create new mass-distributed spyware and worms. Feb 17, 2005 Microsoft walking a fine line with security push, analysts say If Microsoft ties its new antivirus software too closely to Windows -- or prices it sharply lower than antivirus software offered by security software vendors -- antitrust regulators could turn their attention toward the company again. Feb 17, 2005 Bugs delay AOL Netscape beta The beta version of the Netscape 8 Web browser, which will work only on PCs running Windows, won't be released until the end of the month so AOL can squash some last-minute bugs. Feb 17, 2005 T-Mobile ups focus on mobile workers New Windows Mobile-based smart phone combines cellular and wireless Internet technologies. Feb 15, 2005 RSA: Gates promises new version of IE by midyear With phishing threats and competitive pressure growing, Microsoft has changed its plans for Internet Explorer and will release a new version of the Web browser by midyear, according to Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates. Feb 15, 2005 Platt in Pumps Editorial: Carly Fiorina failed in her attempt to remake HP in IBM's image. That remains the task of her successor, says Computerworld editor in chief Don Tennant. Feb 14, 2005 Microsoft's Latest Patch Release Takes Shine Off Antivirus Deal The flurry of critical software patches that Microsoft released last week did little to convince users of the benefits they can get from its continuing expansion moves in the IT security market -- the latest being a planned acquisition of antivirus tools vendor Sybari Software. Feb 14, 2005 Microsoft Tries New Pitch to Curb Linux Use Just days before the kick-off of LinuxWorld, Microsoft made another attempt to sway enterprise users away from the open-source OS, citing legal risks. But many IT pros say they're not overly worried about Linux intellectual property issues. Feb 14, 2005 Microsoft warns customers about exploits for new flaws Microsoft late last week warned customers about computer code that exploits holes in its software -- and blamed security researchers for publishing information about the flaws that was then turned into working attacks. Feb 14, 2005 Judge: Microsoft pact not a guarantee The federal judge overseeing the landmark Microsoft Corp. antitrust settlement said it wasn't her job to ensure that the settlement gives rise to new competition, only to make sure Microsoft sticks to the agreement it made with the government. Feb 11, 2005 Windows Server update, 64-bit Windows closer to release Microsoft on Tuesday released near final versions of Service Pack 1 for Windows Server 2003 and Windows Server 2003 x64 Editions and Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Feb 10, 2005 New program attacks Microsoft's AntiSpyware A new malware program, BankAsh-A, is already on the loose, according to security firm Sophos PLC. It tries to disable Microsoft AntiSpyware software and delete all files within that program's folder. Feb 10, 2005 Microsoft to acquire antivirus vendor Sybari Microsoft's planned acquisition of Sybari Software Inc. is part of an unfolding strategy designed to give the software vendor more of a presence in the booming market for security technologies. Feb 8, 2005 Microsoft explores opening up more source code Microsoft is considering plans to make available more early versions of its software and to share more source code. Feb 8, 2005 Microsoft issues 12 patches, eight of them for ‘critical’ flaws Microsoft made one of its largest patch releases since it adopted a monthly cycle for software fixes in late 2003, issuing a total of 12 updates -- eight of which are for “critical security” vulnerabilities that could be used to run malicious code on systems. Feb 8, 2005 Ray's Return Frankly Speaking: The founder of Novell, Ray Noorda, has resurfaced. And his return has already thrown The SCO Group's anti-Linux litigation into question, writes Frank Hayes. Feb 7, 2005 Thirteen patches planned in next Microsoft security update Microsoft has telegraphed its plans to release 13 security patches as part of its regular monthly security update next Tuesday. Feb 4, 2005 Microsoft's Gates vows 'interoperable' software In a lengthy letter to customers yesterday, Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates spelled out a new mission for his company's software: better interoperability. Feb 4, 2005 Gates promotes government cooperation with security focus Under its new Security Cooperation Program, Microsoft will provide information to governments on publicly known vulnerabilities, as well as reported threats still under investigation. Feb 2, 2005 Gates to unveil new government security program Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates is set to announce new government security program today. Feb 2, 2005 Russian company finds, patches hole in XP A Russian security company that said it uncovered a security hole in Microsoft's Windows XP Service Pack 2 last year has released a patch for the vulnerability. Jan 31, 2005 Microsoft to change name of 'Windows XP Reduced' Microsoft will change the name of the stripped-down version of Windows XP it has been ordered to sell in Europe after criticism from the European Commission. Jan 31, 2005 Open-Source Foes Frankly Speaking: OpenSolaris from Sun kicks off some serious competition among open source operating systems, and not just at the technical level. Jan 31, 2005 Brief: Ex-Microsoft worker pleads guilty to software theft A former Microsoft employee, Finn Contini, pleaded guilty yesterday to ordering software through the company’s internal systems under the pretense it was for internal use and selling it to buy real estate, cars and jewelry. Jan 27, 2005 Microsoft profit rises on PC demand Microsoft reported today that its quarterly profit and revenue rose on stronger demand for PCs, as well as healthy video game sales. Jan 27, 2005 Justice Department steps up Longhorn scrutiny Officials from Microsoft and the U.S. Department of Justice will meet next month to ensure that the upcoming Longhorn operating system complies with the final judgment in the government's 2002 antitrust case against the software maker. Jan 26, 2005 Start planning now for Longhorn's arrival Two Avanade consultants offer tips on how you can prepare for Microsoft's operating system overhaul. Jan 26, 2005 Microsoft to require Windows piracy check Microsoft by midyear will put a lock on two of its download Web sites, requiring all Windows XP and Windows 2000 users to validate their copy of Windows as genuine before downloading updates. Jan 26, 2005 Microsoft backs off appeal on EU sanctions Microsoft has decided not to appeal a decision by a European Union judge that left in place sanctions imposed on it by the European Commission. But the software company will continue its longer-term fight over the sanctions. Jan 24, 2005 Study: Internet Explorer continues to lose market share Internet Explorer's market share dropped 1.5 perrcentage points, and The Mozilla Project's Firefox browser rose 0.9% perrcentage point as some browser users move toward vendor independence and lower costs. Jan 21, 2005 Novell puts weight behind Windows e-mail client Novell has decided to back an effort to develop a Windows version of Evolution, an open-source suite of e-mail, calendaring and address-book software. Jan 19, 2005 MS Office encryption flaw uncovered A researcher has uncovered what is claimed to be a Jan 19, 2005 Experts warn of trick to bypass IE download warnings A computer security researcher and Symantec Corp. are warning Microsoft customers about an unpatched hole in the company's Web browser that could allow an attacker to bypass security warnings and download malicious content onto vulnerable systems. Jan 14, 2005 Update: Experts warn of trick to bypass IE download warnings A computer security researcher and Symantec Corp. are warning Microsoft customers about an unpatched hole in the company's Web browser that could allow an attacker to bypass security warnings and download malicious content onto vulnerable systems. Jan 14, 2005 Microsoft's Longhorn may blend Tablet PC, Media Center Microsoft plans to change the Jan 13, 2005 Microsoft CFO Connors quits Microsoft CFO John Connors is leaving the world's largest software maker after 16 years. The company has not yet named a successor. Jan 12, 2005 Growing Microsoft to expand Redmond headquarters Reflecting its commitment to remain in the Puget Sound region, Microsoft said yesterday that it will expand its Redmond, Wash., headquarters to accommodate more than 10,000 new employees over next 10 to 20 years. Jan 11, 2005 Microsoft patches Windows, offers malware removal tool Microsoft today offered patches for several serious Windows security holes and released a new tool that lets users remove malicious software from their PCs. It also said it has a formal closed beta program for testing security updates. Jan 11, 2005 Microsoft Drops XP for Itanium 2 Workstations Microsoft has halted development of Windows XP for workstations based on Intel's 64-bit Itanium 2 processor after computer makers stopped building low-end itanium-based systems. Jan 10, 2005 Microsoft Gives Users More Security Options Stepping up its effort to help users better secure their Windows systems, Microsoft released a beta version of an antispyware tool plus a separate product that can be used to remove worms, viruses and other malicious code from PCs. Jan 10, 2005 Users Remain Loyal to iSeries, Despite Entreaties by Microsoft Microsoft has set up a Midrange Alliance Program aimed at enticing users of IBM's iSeries systems to build applications for Windows, but the initiative isn't expected to convince many IT managers to give up on the venerable line of midrange servers. Jan 10, 2005 How to Plan for a Possible Network Attack A saying pops into my head -- Jan 10, 2005 Microsoft move sends shivers through antivirus market While the free antivirus and virus-removal tools offered by Microsoft aren't an immediate threat to major antivirus software vendors, they could signal that the company hopes to use its size and influence to expand into new markets, industry experts said. Jan 7, 2005 Microsoft releases antispyware, malware-removal tools Microsoft's release today of two free security tools aimed at helping users remove spyware and other malicious code puts the company one step closer to directly competing with the industry's major security vendors. Jan 6, 2005 CES: Gates pitches Microsoft for 'digital lifestyle' At this year's International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Bill Gates promoted Microsoft products and partner offerings and presented his vision of a digital lifestyle. Jan 6, 2005 Microsoft nixes Windows XP for Itanium Microsoft yesterday said it has killed a version of Windows XP for Intel's Itanium 2 processor, a move that comes after major hardware vendors abandoned the 64-bit chip for use in workstations. Jan 5, 2005 2004 reviews: Platforms InfoWorld reviews the year in operating systems, including the arrival of the v2.6 Linux kernel. Jan 3, 2005 European Ruling May Limit Microsoft's Bundling Options A judge turned down Microsoft's request that antitrust sanctions imposed by European regulators be suspended while an appeal proceeds, and analysts said a requirement that Windows be offered without Media Player may set a precedent on adding new features to the operating system. Jan 3, 2005 Symantec: Phel Trojan horse attacks on Windows XP The Phel Trojan installs programs that can remotely control a user's system, according to Symantec. Dec 30, 2004 Researchers warn of multiple unpatched Windows holes The newly discovered vulnerabilities could leave systems open to remote attacks, according to antivirus companies. Microsoft has not yet announced fixes. Dec 24, 2004 2005: The year IT gets easier? Opinion: Improved software and security offerings next year should help IT managers in their struggle to do more with less, several Avanade consultants predict. Dec 23, 2004 Remedies may not help Microsoft's competitors Microsoft must comply with behavioral remedies imposed by the European Commission, but observers are skeptical of the difference they will make. Dec 22, 2004 Microsoft, Citrix renew ties for Longhorn Citrix Systems Inc. and Microsoft Corp. this week announced an extension to their long-standing partnership that will allow Citrix to support the next version of the Windows Server -- code-named Longhorn -- in its popular access products. Dec 22, 2004 Microsoft loses bid to suspend EU sanctions A European Union court today upheld a ruling that Microsoft must offer a version of Windows that doesn't include its Media Player software and must also publish application programming interfaces that would make it easier for competitors to make products that work well with its operating system. Dec 22, 2004 New IE hole could perfect phishing scams A newly reported security problem in Internet Explorer allows attackers to create a fake Web site that looks exactly like a genuine site. Dec 20, 2004 Sidebar: Microsoft Pushes Back Longhorn Server Beta Microsoft has pushed back the initial beta release of the server version of Longhorn, the next major upgrade to Windows, from the first half of 2005 to the second half of the year. Dec 20, 2004 Microsoft Buys Tools for Fighting Spyware Microsoft has bought antispyware vendor Giant Company Software and plans next month to release a beta version of a tool for detecting spyware and removing it from Windows systems. Dec 20, 2004 Court to rule on stay of EU sanctions against Microsoft A decision on suspending the EU's sanctions against Microsoft is expected next week. Dec 17, 2004 Longhorn will let users tune Windows for different servers Bob Muglia, senior vice president of the Windows Server division at Microsoft, said in an interview that he thinks the ability to configure Windows system images for various types of servers will be Dec 17, 2004 Microsoft tries to woo PeopleSoft customers Microsoft solicits PeopleSoft customers with offers of cheaper and better technology just days after Oracle purchases the company. Dec 17, 2004 Microsoft acquires antispyware vendor Giant Microsoft today announced the acquisition of Giant Company Software and plans to use the company's intellectual property and technology assets to provide Windows users with new tools for protecting against spyware. Dec 16, 2004 Zafi worm variant hides behind Christmas cheer Zafi.D, a new version of the Zafi e-mail worm, is spreading Christmas wishes along with its malicious code, and has been rated a medium threat by antivirus software companies. Dec 14, 2004 Thunderbird 1.0 takes on Outlook Express, Eudora The Mozilla Foundation today is set to release Version 1.0 of its Thunderbird e-mail client, an open-source application aimed at competitors, including Microsoft's Outlook Express and Qualcomm's Eudora. Dec 7, 2004 Users See Slow Progress on Microsoft-Sun Alliance Microsoft and Sun issued an eight-month progress report about their collaborative work. But analysts said they didn't hear much that was new, and some users remain skeptical that they will see any meaningful results from the joint initiatives, at least in the near term. Dec 6, 2004 Microsoft offers flat-fee support option for NT 4.0 Server, Exchange 5.5 Microsoft plans to offer a fee-based custom support program to users of Windows NT 4.0 Server and Exchange Server 5.5 when the standard support phases end. Dec 6, 2004 Microsoft Eyes More Markets For Stripped-Down Windows It's not available in North America, but Windows XP Starter Edition will soon launch in India, Russia and several other countries. Dec 2, 2004 Microsoft releases patch to plug IE vulnerability Microsoft today released an out-of-cycle security bulletin and patch for a critical hole in Internet Explorer that is already being widely exploited by attackers. Dec 1, 2004 Microsoft investigates Windows server flaw Microsoft is investigating a security flaw in the Windows Internet Name Service that could allow an attacker to gain control over systems running the software. Dec 1, 2004 New Netscape browser supports Internet Explorer America Online today released a preview of a new Netscape browser that is based on the Firefox browser, but also supports Microsoft's Internet Explorer engine. Nov 30, 2004 Report: Microsoft paid CCIA official as part of antitrust settlement An antitrust settlement between Microsoft and the Computer and Communications Industry Association earlier this month included a payment of $9.75 million to the CCIA's president, according to a report in the Financial Times. Nov 24, 2004 EU judge calls meeting in Microsoft antitrust case The judge examining whether to suspend antitrust sanctions has called a meeting to determine how the case should proceed following the withdrawal of two major participants. Nov 23, 2004 Euro Web sites spread Bofra worm via banner ads Web site visitors who clicked on banner ads on a number of popular European Web sites over the weekend may have infected their computers with variants of the Bofra worm, experts said today. Nov 22, 2004 Sidebar: Windows to Skip Itanium for Supercomputing Microsoft wants to break into the high-performance computing market but says it will stick only to systems running x86 processors because the emerging Itanium 2-based hardware is too expensive and too powerful for the small clusters expected to be built around Window Server 2003. Nov 22, 2004 Air Force Consolidates Contracts, Software The Air Force is consolidating 38 software-purchasing contracts with Microsoft and nine support deals into two enterprisewide contracts and mandating the worldwide use of standardized software configurations on PCs and Windows servers. Nov 22, 2004 Air Force to launch enterprise Microsoft initiative The U.S. Air Force tomorrow plans to announce an enterprisewide Microsoft software initiative that some analysts see as a prime example of how users can leverage their spending power to force vendors to deliver more secure products. Nov 18, 2004 Microsoft warns Asian governments of Linux suits The Open Source Risk Management Group said earlier this year that potential intellectual property claims against Linux could expose users to unexpected claims that might result in lawsuits. Nov 18, 2004 Windows XP SP2: A bandage, not a panacea With SP2, Microsoft has delivered many security improvements. But before you let it loose on production machines throughout your company, run it on test machines first. Nov 17, 2004 Europe's IT security agency begins work The European Union's international cybercrime squad is up and running, a year after it was given the go-ahead by the European Commission. Nov 17, 2004 China Airlines scales back in-flight Internet plans Taiwan's largest airline plans to sign a deal tomorrow that clears the way for the Connexion by Boeing in-flight Internet service to be offered on one Boeing 747-400 aircraft that flies between Taiwan and North America. Nov 16, 2004 Gates touts software 'magic' to cut complexity Microsoft Chief Software Architect Bill Gates said the key for simplifying system management lies in the company's Dynamic Systems Initiative, which he described as a long-term vision that needs broad industry cooperation. Nov 16, 2004 Microsoft talks security, Trustworthy Computing Microsoft's chief Trustworthy Computing strategist, Scott Charney, laid out the company's security efforts at the IT Forum today with all the seriousness one would expect from a former public prosecutor and U.S. Department of Justice cybercrime chief. Nov 16, 2004 Sidebar: Vendor Issues Fix as Worm Emerges Microsoft last week released a patch to fix an important vulnerability in Internet Explorer even as a new worm that took advantage of an unpatched hole in the browser began spreading. Nov 15, 2004 DaimlerChrysler Rolls Out Standard PCs Worldwide DaimlerChrysler has embarked on a global project to upgrade all of its 160,000 PCs and standardize them on Windows XP and other common software by the end of 2005, as the automaker tries to improve its ability to rapidly patch systems and add applications. Nov 15, 2004 Theft charges filed against four former Microsoft workers Four former Microsoft employees face charges of theft, conspiracy, mail fraud and money laundering in connection with the alleged theft and resale of $32 million of Microsoft software. Nov 15, 2004 Microsoft probing reported flaws in Windows XP SP2 Microsoft is downplaying claims that several new vulnerabilities in Windows XP SP2 were discovered by Finjan Software, but it is looking into the claims anyway. Nov 12, 2004 Microsoft issues one fix in monthly security update Microsoft this week released a patch to fix an important vulnerability in Internet Explorer, even as a new worm that took advantage of an as-yet-unpatched hole in the Web browser spread. Nov 11, 2004 Microsoft to indemnify most customers from legal threats Microsoft yesterday said it will expand its indemnification program to cover the vast majority of its customers in a move to set itself apart from open-source rivals. Nov 10, 2004 Mozilla launches Firefox 1.0 browser The new Firefox 1.0 Web browser features an integrated pop-up ad blocker and safeguards against online scams and has generated expectations that it could offer real competition to Internet Explorer. Nov 9, 2004 New MyDoom variant exploits IE flaw The new worm, which security firms dubbed MyDoom.AF, MyDoom.AH and MyDoom.AG, spreads by e-mail and exploits a recently discovered buffer-overflow vulnerability in Microsoft Corp.'s Internet Explorer Web browser. Nov 9, 2004 Update: Microsoft, Novell reach $536M antitrust settlement Microsoft and Novell today said they have reached a $536 million settlement over antitrust issues related to Novell's NetWare network operating software. Nov 8, 2004 Sun, Microsoft to End Silence About Product Integration Work Microsoft and Sun Microsystems both confirmed that they plan to deliver the first significant update on the progress of their interoperability work late this month. Nov 8, 2004 Microsoft Plots New Office System Release A Microsoft vice president said the company plans to stick with its policy of shipping new Office releases every two to three years - an approach that means the next major upgrade of the software suite should be ready between next October and October 2006. Nov 8, 2004 Microsoft plots next Office release for '05 or '06 A Microsoft vice president confirmed this week that the company intends to ship a new version of Office, referred to internally as Office 12, in the next 12 to 24 months. Nov 5, 2004 Microsoft aims at small businesses with new Office edition Microsoft will expand its Office product lineup next year with a bundle designed to help small businesses manage customer, financial and business processes. Nov 5, 2004 Novell counters Microsoft's Linux 'facts' with 'truth' In a battle of dueling memos and e-mails, Novell CEO Jack Messman and Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer are each touting their own software -- and criticizing the competition. Nov 5, 2004 Microsoft investigating reports of new IE hole Microsoft is looking into reports this week of a serious buffer overflow vulnerability in its Internet Explorer Web browser, but has not yet seen malicious code that exploits the reported flaw. Nov 4, 2004 Microsoft to help users prep for patching Microsoft said today that it plans to give customers three days' advance notice about its monthly security updates to help them prepare to install related software patches. Nov 4, 2004 Internet Explorer keeps losing market share While Microsoft's Internet Explorer still dominates the Web browser market, it continues to lose share to open-source rival Mozilla, according to Web metrics company WebSideStory. Nov 3, 2004 Mac OS X, BSD Unix top security survey Mi2g Ltd. has released a report calling Mac OS X and BSD Unix the Nov 2, 2004 GM, Boeing push identity management General Motors plans to install a global identity management system that will provide single-sign-on access to applications for about 500,000 internal and external end users, and Boeing is in the midst of a similar project -- both aimed at cutting IT costs and improving user productivity. Oct 29, 2004 U.K. report cites merits of open-source Open-source software advocates got a potential boost from a report by the U.K.'s Office of Government Commerce, which cited advantages on the server side and a growing maturity on the desktop front. Oct 28, 2004 Information security: How liable should vendors be? The best way to get secure software is to make software companies liable for their products, says security expert Bruce Schneier. Oct 28, 2004 Squash a privacy bug in Outlook Express Several privacy holes revealed this month can leave your PC -- and you -- exposed. Oct 27, 2004 A holistic approach to securing the enterprise Ensuring the security of your IT infrastructure means looking at the whole picture, and that includes systems and storage, too, says Don Kleinschnitz of Symantec Corp. Oct 26, 2004 EU court ruling on Microsoft could come by next month A European Union judge's decision on whether to suspend sanctions against Microsoft Corp. could come as early as mid-November, sources familiar with the process said today. Oct 22, 2004 Does Google desktop search pose risks? If you use shared or public computers, you have a new privacy risk to consider: Google Desktop Search. Oct 20, 2004 Microsoft to deliver SP1 for Windows Server by year's end Microsoft plans to ship the first release candidate of Service Pack 1 for Windows Server 2003 by year's end and will release a developer's kit for the high-performance computing version of Windows Server next month. Oct 18, 2004 Cisco, Microsoft team up on network access security Under the effort announced today, the two will share APIs and develop protocols to enable better interoperability between Microsoft's Network Access Protection technology and Cisco's Network Admission Control technology. Oct 18, 2004 Sidebar: Microsoft's Fixes Seek to Stop Remote Attacks The monthly set of software patches released by Microsoft for October seeks to plug almost two dozen security holes, four of which are seen by security consultants as particularly dangerous. Oct 18, 2004 Users buoyed by monthly patch releases Despite Microsoft's release of 10 new software patches, IT managers said the monthly patching approach that the company has been using for the past 12 months is making it easier for them to keep their systems up to date on fixes for security vulnerabilities. Oct 15, 2004 Microsoft, HP pleased with results of .Net partnership The 2-year-old .Net joint initiative between Microsoft and Hewlett-Packard has produced $600 million in revenue. Oct 15, 2004 Google Desktop Search app lets you 'google' your Windows PC Google Inc. unveiled a desktop search application that lets users catalog and search through e-mail, files, Web histories, instant message chats and other content on their PCs. Oct 15, 2004 IBM, Borland upgrade developer tools IBM and Borland have both upgraded their development platforms to focus more on business process automation. Oct 13, 2004 Microsoft releases fixes for seven 'critical' vulnerabilities Windows users need to prepare for 'patch Tuesday,' analyst says. Oct 12, 2004 Microsoft still hopes to settle with EC, exec says Microsoft's CEO in Europe said the company still hopes to settle with the European Commission over the sanctions imposed against it to correct its anticompetitive behavior. Oct 11, 2004 SANS unveils top 20 security vulnerabilities The SANS Institute today released its annual Top-20 list of Internet security vulnerabilities. The list is compiled from recommendations by leading security researchers and companies around the world. Oct 8, 2004 Microsoft releases Virtual PC 7 Virtual PC 7 for the Mac was released this week by Microsoft Corp.'s Macintosh Business Unit, nine months after it was officially announced. Oct 8, 2004 Andreessen: Microsoft to make Internet Explorer more competitive The success of alternative Web browsers could push Microsoft to more aggressively leverage its dominance of Internet client software, said Marc Andreessen, one of the founders of Netscape. Oct 7, 2004 New Trojan program squashes adware Downloader.Lunii, a new Trojan horse program that attacks and removes troublesome advertising software, also modifies the configuration of Windows machines and attempts to download files from a remote location, according to Symantec Corp. Oct 6, 2004 Take advantage of Longhorn's lag Two Avanade consultants outline how the delay in Microsoft's next operating system offers you some time to prepare -- in part by taking advantage of often-underused features in existing Windows versions. Oct 5, 2004 Gates undaunted by Linux Speaking to technologists during an appearance at the Computer History Museum, Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates touched on a number of topics, including Linux, Web services, grid computing and digital rights management. Oct 4, 2004 Microsoft eyes smaller code base for Longhorn Developing versions of the Windows operating system with only a subset of the code base would mark a major technical shift for Microsoft and could help it to better address the threat posed by Linux. Oct 4, 2004 CIO survey: IT spending cools slightly in September Some 250 CIOs surveyed last month by CIO magazine said they expect their IT budgets to grow by 7.4% during the next year, down slightly from the 8.9% spending increase respondents predicted in August. Oct 1, 2004 Microsoft loses FAT patent, wins Smart Tag case The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office earlier this month rejected a 7-year-old Microsoft patent for its FAT (file allocation table) file system. Oct 1, 2004 EU judge to Microsoft: Justify penalty suspension A European Court judge today pressed Microsoft to explain how it would suffer irreparable harm if it follows EU orders to share technology with competitors, but offered no clues as to how he'll rule. Sep 30, 2004 Microsoft asks EU court to suspend remedies Microsoft has asked a judge to suspend the European Commission's antitrust ruling against it, arguing that any secrets revealed now cannot be retracted later. Sep 30, 2004 Instant messaging worm exploits JPEG vulnerability Researchers at the SANS Institute's Internet Storm Center have identified the first attempts to create an Internet worm that spreads by instant messages and exploits a recently disclosed JPEG flaw in Microsoft software. Sep 30, 2004 Munich set to approve Linux despite patent worries More than a year after the German city moved to abandon Microsoft Windows in favor of Linux, city councilors are finally ready to vote on the switch. Sep 28, 2004 Hackers use porn to target Microsoft JPEG flaw Malicious hackers are apparently seeding Internet newsgroups that traffic in pornography with JPEG images that take advantage of a recently disclosed security hole in Microsoft software. Sep 28, 2004 Microsoft is ready to remove media player for EU Microsoft will be ready to comply with European Commission demands for changes to its Windows operating systems if a European court does not suspend the antitrust remedy, a company spokesman said today. Sep 27, 2004 New, dangerous Microsoft JPEG exploit code released The new code is more dangerous than the exploit that appeared earlier this week, since it allows malicious hackers to run their own code on vulnerable machines, according to the SANS Institute's Internet Storm Center. Sep 23, 2004 XP SP2 distribution accelerated; VPN problem fixed Microsoft is accelerating the distribution of Windows XP Service Pack 2 to reach its goal of updating 100 million PCs through Automatic Updates by Oct. 18, and it has released an update to correct a VPN problem. Sep 23, 2004 Exploit posted for Microsoft JPEG flaw Computer code that exploits a flaw in the way many Microsoft applications process JPEG images has been published on the Internet and could indicate coming attacks on vulnerable PCs, experts said. Sep 22, 2004 Symantec: Viruses aimed at Microsoft rise sharply Nearly 5,000 new Windows viruses and worms were documented in the first half of 2004, up from about 1,000 in the same period a year earlier, according to computer security firm Symantec. Sep 20, 2004 Microsoft to provide Office source code to governments In a bid to fend off competition from open-source software providers, Microsoft will allow governments and international organizations access to the source code for its Office 2003 productivity suite. Sep 20, 2004 Sidebar: A Step Toward Interoperability Slightly behind schedule, the two rivals next month plan to announce initial details about the work they have been doing to make their products more interoperable as part of a far-reaching legal settlement signed last spring. Sep 20, 2004 Microsoft Updates Beta for Visual Studio 2005 Release The software vendor announced a refresh of its Visual Studio 2005 beta release and provided new details about the upcoming product's Standard Edition, which will bundle all of the programming languages that the tools supports. Sep 20, 2004 Q&A: Microsoft's Linux strategist Martin Taylor With a year under his belt as Microsoft Corp.'s chief Linux strategist, Martin Taylor has a lot to say about where he sees Linux going and how Microsoft plans to compete with the open-source operating system. Sep 16, 2004 German IT agency sets record straight on Explorer A spokesman for Germany's Federal Office for Information Security has said users should consider alternatives to Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser, but it didn't recommend that they steer clear of Microsoft products. Sep 16, 2004 Microsoft issues patch for 'critical' JPEG-handling flaw Microsoft has released a Sep 14, 2004 German software pirate, and his father get jail time A German court yesterday sentenced a second member of one of Europe's largest software counterfeiting rings to three years prison and handed down a sentence to his father for helping run front operations. Sep 14, 2004 The Color of Microsoft's Money Opinion: Pimm Fox suspects there's still no level playing field when Microsoft enters the game. Sep 13, 2004 Microsoft offers more time to test XP Service Pack 2 Faced with concerns from IT professionals, Microsoft Corp. gave users more time to prepare for Windows XP Service Pack 2 by doubling the time a special registry key will prevent PCs from automatically downloading and installing the mammoth update. Sep 8, 2004 Sidebar: Microsoft Presents Murky Picture of WinFS Server Plan Microsoft now says that WinFS was not part of its Longhorn server plans, but others paint a different picture. Sep 6, 2004 Many Users Are Unfazed by Scaled-Back Longhorn Plan Most users are taking the announcement that Microsoft won't be shipping the WinFS storage subsystem with its next major Windows release in stride, but others expressed frustration at yet another product delay. Sep 6, 2004 Stripped down Longhorn still offers gems Although Microsoft's Longhorn has been stripped of its unified file system and some other key technologies, the company said the next Windows release will still be worth the upgrade. Sep 6, 2004 Longhorn cuts delay Microsoft Business Framework Microsoft's decision to cut WinFS from its Longhorn release means another delay for the Microsoft Business Framework, which promises to make it easier for developers to write business applications for the Windows platform. Sep 2, 2004 Ballmer bullish on future, bearish on Linux Speaking to members of the Massachusetts Software Council, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer touted a bright future for technology but warned his listeners to think twice before adopting open-source products like Linux. Sep 1, 2004 Xybernaut adds Linux as an OS option Xybernaut this week said it has introduced a customized version of Linux as an option in its Atigo T line of wearable computers. Sep 1, 2004 Copernic desktop search takes aim at Microsoft The privately held company today released free desktop search software in a move some see as a test of the product's market viability in what is becoming a crowded field. Aug 31, 2004 Analysis: Longhorn's loss may be some users' gain Users and developers gain more than they lose from Microsoft's decision to add several Longhorn technologies to Windows XP and Windows Server 2003, even as the company scales back plans for the next Windows operating system. Aug 30, 2004 California cities, counties sue Microsoft Six California counties and cities have filed a class-action lawsuit against Microsoft accusing it of anticompetitive business practices and seeking unspecified damages. Aug 30, 2004 Microsoft Security's Weak Link Opinion: Dan Gillmor thinks Microsoft should take steps to ensure that your next PC doesn't come in need of immediate XP upgrades. Aug 30, 2004 App tests for Win XP SP2 burden users Windows XP Service Pack 2 is a tough pill to swallow for companies that have to test tens, hundreds and, in some cases, at least a thousand applications for compatibility. Aug 30, 2004 Microsoft won't ship WinFS with Longhorn Microsoft today announced a significant change in plans for the next major release of Windows, code-named Longhorn. The new WinFS storage subsystem will not be part of it, as had been previously planned. Aug 27, 2004 Sidebar: Microsoft Tries to Cozy Up to Mainframe, iSeries Users At a conference held by the mainframe-oriented Share user group, Microsoft announced an upgrade of its server software for connecting Windows-based systems to mainframes and IBM's iSeries midrange servers -- the first new release of the technology in four years. Aug 23, 2004 What you need to know about Windows XP SP2 Service Pack 2 could have some unexpected consequences on your company's applications, mobile workers and more. Two Avanade consultants offer advice on how to prepare. Aug 20, 2004 U.K. government to extend three-year contract with Microsoft The U.K.'s Office of Government Commerce is negotiating a renewal of a three-year agreement with Microsoft Corp. that will focus on services and support. Aug 19, 2004 Researchers find holes in XP SP2 Security researchers found two software flaws in the Windows XP Service Pack 2 that could allow virus writers and malicious hackers to sidestep new security features in the operating system. Aug 18, 2004 Browsing for secure alternative browsers Web surfers are beginning to look toward substitute browsers that offer the speed and ease of use of Internet Explorer while still providing the security and privacy controls they need. Columnist Douglas Schweitzer takes a look at them. Aug 18, 2004 Microsoft details conflicts in new XP update Microsoft has published a list of nearly 50 applications -- including developer and backup tools, antivirus software and an FTP client -- that may not work correctly after installing Service Pack 2 for Windows XP. Aug 16, 2004 Symantec releases patching tool Security company Symantec Corp. announced plans to release a patch management product that it says will enable small and medium-size businesses to stay on top of software vulnerabilities. Aug 16, 2004 QuickStudy: COM Component Object Model is a Microsoft-developed, language-independent architecture created in the 1990s that lets developers build applications from reusable, binary software components. Aug 16, 2004 Sidebar: The nuts and bolts of COM -- Objects, Interfaces and GUIDs A quick course in how some of the most esoteric aspects of COM work. Aug 16, 2004 IBM Tells Internal Users Not to Install Windows XP Update In a note posted Aug. 6 on its corporate intranet, IBM told its employees not to download Service Pack 2 for Windows XP when it becomes available because of compatibility issues. IBM wants to test the update first. Aug 16, 2004 Lite a Fire Frankly Speaking: Frank Hayes has a message for those who hate Microsoft's bloatware: Stop buying it, and maybe you'll be offered XP Lite, too. Aug 16, 2004 Hunt for XP SP2 flaws seen in full swing Security experts said that while the new Service Pack 2 for Windows XP will bolster the operating system's security, hackers will still find a way to exploit any flaws. Aug 13, 2004 Strategies for automatic patch management Busy IT departments look to automation for patch management, but what's the best approach? Eric Voskuil, chief technology officer at AutoProf, explains the differences to help you find the right choice for your company. Aug 12, 2004 Windows XP Starter Edition to hit Asia in October The introduction of Windows XP Starter Edition in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand had been expected, since Microsoft said last month it was negotiating with the governments to offer its new entry-point product. Aug 11, 2004 IBM tells employees not to install Windows XP update In a note posted Friday on its corporate intranet, IBM told its employees not to download Service Pack 2 for Windows XP when it becomes available because of compatibility issues. IBM wants to test the update first. Aug 9, 2004 Cigna Goes Virtual It began as a simple server consolidation project, but it grew to much more. Health insurance giant Cigna is moving aggressively to new operating systems, to 64-bit processors and to nascent Aug 9, 2004 IT Managers Eye Desktop Linux, But Migration Challenges Remain IT managers at LinuxWorld said their companies are starting to look more seriously at migrating PCs from Windows to desktop Linux. But for some, that's still easier said than done. Aug 9, 2004 Update: Microsoft releases XP Service Pack 2 to manufacturing At about 265MB, the upcoming XP Service Pack 2 is no small download, but Microsoft said it expects the average download to be much smaller because of the Aug 6, 2004 Microsoft settles consumer lawsuit in New Mexico The agreement, which received preliminary approval by New Mexico's First Judicial District Court in late July, will provide eligible consumers with vouchers from Microsoft that can be used to buy computer hardware or software from any manufacturer. Aug 6, 2004 Microsoft hits home stretch for XP Service Pack 2 Microsoft had hoped to wrap up work on Service Pack 2 for Windows XP this week and planned to announce release to manufacturing of the code late Wednesday. However, plans changed to ensure that the software meets quality standards. Aug 6, 2004 Munich's Linux rollout put on hold The city's decision to halt a move toward Linux reflects concerns in Europe and the U.S. that software patents could be used to derail open-source projects, which depend on freedom from intellectual property license fees. Aug 5, 2004 LinuxWorld: Is Linux finally ready for corporate desktops? Many IT staffers are working now to gain a familiarity with Linux with an eye to the day when they may be putting it on their corporate desktops. But companies aren't ready for the big jump yet. Aug 5, 2004 Microsoft issues warning on CRM suite Microsoft has issued a warning around incompatibility issues in its customer relationship management suite caused by installing the Windows XP Service Pack 2. Aug 4, 2004 Unisys puts Linux on high-end Intel servers The company said it will offer two distributions of Linux on its ES7000 servers: SUSE, from Novell Inc., and Red Hat from Red Hat Inc. Aug 2, 2004 Microsoft Money glitch fixed Microsoft Corp. posted a patch for some Money 2004 users who lost access to their financial data even though it was stored on their local hard disks. Aug 2, 2004 Depend on Microsoft? Opinion: Paul A. Strassmann says users would be wise to wean themselves from their dependence on Microsoft. Aug 2, 2004 Sidebar: Microsoft Scant on Longhorn Specifics Financial analysts pumped Microsoft about Longhorn, but company executives were scant on details about the next major Windows release. Aug 2, 2004 Microsoft Confirms More Product Delays Microsoft last week confirmed delays for the first service pack of Windows Server 2003 and for its 64-bit extended systems releases. Aug 2, 2004 Details scant on Longhorn specifics Financial analysts pumped Microsoft about Longhorn, but company executives were short on details about the next major Windows release. Jul 30, 2004 Microsoft demos Web, desktop search In a step beyond Web searching, Microsoft Corp.'s MSN group is also working on a tool that allows users to quickly find e-mail messages, Word documents and other files on their computers. Jul 30, 2004 Glitch locks out Money users A glitch with some Microsoft servers for its Money 2004 software has frozen users' access to their own financial data, even though the encrypted files are on the hard drives of their own PCs. Microsoft acknowledged the problem, but some customers are livid. Jul 30, 2004 Microsoft: Core Longhorn work not outsourced Microsoft Corp. denied reports from an IT workers' group that core development work for Longhorn, its next version of the Windows operating system, was being done by contractors in India. Jul 30, 2004 Gates: Security can be an asset and opportunity Microsoft is addressing security concerns by working to create more secure software and by offering software management applications, according to Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates. Jul 29, 2004 Microsoft delays 64-bit Windows, Windows Server update Microsoft is pushing back the two versions of Windows with 64-bit support and the service pack so it can test the software with Windows XP Service Pack 2, a significant update to Windows XP that is due next month. Jul 28, 2004 Date set for Microsoft's day in EU court Microsoft is appealing penalties the European Commission imposed when it ruled that the company violated competition law through its dominance in the PC operating system market. Jul 27, 2004 Virus purporting Bin Laden suicide hits Web The fake Bin Laden suicide file, when opened, unleashes a Trojan horse that allows attackers to take over infected PCs running the Windows OS. Jul 26, 2004 Sidebar: Avoiding Application Conflicts Softricity's SoftGrid eliminates application conflicts by creating a virtualized environment for each. Jul 26, 2004 FTP Server Offers Illicit Goods Security Manager's Journal: A random check of a public FTP server uncovers an illegal distribution copy of Windows at Mathias Thurman's company. Jul 26, 2004 German software pirate gets prison term for Microsoft fraud A German man was sentenced to five and a half years in prison for repackaging discounted versions of Microsoft Corp. software and then selling them at higher prices. Jul 22, 2004 Microsoft Q4 2004 revenue up 15% to $9.29B Microsoft today reported $9.29 billion in revenue for its fourth quarter, a 15% increase over the same period last year, while its revenue for the full fiscal year hit $36.8 billion, up 14% over 2003. Jul 22, 2004 Microsoft, Apple sued for offering online updates The lawsuit charges Microsoft and Apple with infringing on U.S. Patent No. 6,557,054, alleging that their operating systems, as well as Microsoft Office products, incorporate patented technologies. Jul 21, 2004 Update: Microsoft tapping cash hoard for dividends, stock buyback Microsoft said yesterday that it will pay out about $45 billion in dividends to its shareholders over the next four years, including a special, one-time dividend of $3 per share. Jul 21, 2004 Microsoft to pay $20M to end Lindows trademark battle Microsoft will pay Linux vendor Lindows Inc. $20 million to end a legal battle over the Lindows name, which Microsoft argued was too close to its own Windows trademark. Jul 20, 2004 Microsoft unwraps plan to repay shareholders Microsoft Corp. said today that it will return a total of about $75 billion to its shareholders over the next four years, including a special, one-time dividend of $3 per share. Jul 20, 2004 First Windows CE virus emerges Security companies this weekend identified a virus that's designed to demonstrate security holes in Microsoft Corp.'s Windows CE operating system. Jul 19, 2004 Reporter's Notebook: Microsoft focuses on Linux threat with partners Microsoft addressed such themes as the Linux threat and its Software Assurance program at last week's Worldwide Partner Conference in Toronto. Jul 19, 2004 Microsoft Delays Ship Date of Windows Update Services Microsoft disclosed another delay for the Windows Update Services that allow companies to automate patch management distribution. Jul 19, 2004 Microsoft delays some security updates Microsoft has disclosed another delay for the Windows Update Services that will allow companies to automate patch management distribution. Jul 14, 2004 Microsoft issues seven security patches, two critical Software updates released today by Microsoft include fixes for previously unknown flaws in the Windows OS, including critical holes in the Windows Task Manager and HTML help features. Jul 13, 2004 Ballmer quizzed by Microsoft partners on company plans, tactics Partners queried Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer during the company's Worldwide Partner Conference on issues raning from the company's plans to deliver services to its commitment to Microsoft Business Solutions to competition from Linux. Jul 13, 2004 Japan FTC: Microsoft violating Antimonopoly Act The Japan Fair Trade Commission said that some provisions in license agreements between Microsoft and Japanese PC vendors violate the nation's antimonopoly code and should be terminated. Jul 13, 2004 Microsoft invests $50M to spur Windows, Office upgrades The company hopes that large organizations that bought Enterprise Agreement licenses will be more likely to sign volume license agreements, which include upgrade rights, once they have deployed the latest version of the software. Jul 12, 2004 Windows XP SP2 to go gold in August The head of Microsoft's Windows client business is expected to announce its plan to end work on Service Pack 2 and release the code to manufacturing in August at the company's Worldwide Partner Conference in Toronto. Jul 12, 2004 Microsoft looks to improve Office search tools Microsoft, which is developing is own technology to challenge Web search provider Google Inc., is also looking to help users more easily find information stored on hard drives, such as documents, e-mails and data files. Jul 9, 2004 Microsoft to pitch security as 'competitive advantage' Microsoft plans to pitch security as a Jul 9, 2004 Mandrakesoft wins French government server deal The French Ministry of Equipment plans to move 1,500 servers from Windows NT to Mandrakelinux Linux Corporate Server by next year. Jul 9, 2004 Microsoft, under attack, aims to offer security Many security improvements are to be delivered in the much-anticipated Windows XP Service Pack 2, an update to the Windows XP operating system that is so jam-packed with features that it's like installing a whole new OS. Jul 6, 2004 Microsoft pushes OS updates to fight attacks Microsoft has released a software update that disables a Windows component called ADODB.Stream, which online criminals were using to copy malicious code onto Windows users' machines. Jul 2, 2004 McAfee: New Lovegate worm spreading The latest version of the Lovegate worm appears to be more successful than some of its predecessors at infecting vulnerable computers. Jul 2, 2004 Microsoft pays EU fine in antitrust case Microsoft has paid the $611 million fine levied against it by the European Commission earlier this year for abusing its dominance in the operating systems market. Jul 2, 2004 Usenix: Experts debate security through diversity The number of worms and viruses directed at Microsoft's Windows operating system and Internet Explorer browser have many in the computer industry wondering whether the cyberworld would be more secure if more users relied on alternatives. Jul 1, 2004 Is appeals court ruling on Microsoft the end of the fight? While Massachusetts could still fight yesterday’s U.S. Court of Appeals decision backing the settlement of the antitrust case against Microsoft, legal experts say the state’s prospects for success are remote. Jul 1, 2004 Appeals court backs Microsoft-DOJ antitrust settlement After a six-year court fight between Microsoft and the federal government and nearly 20 U.S. states, a federal appeals court today rejected efforts by opponents seeking harsher penalties than those included in the antitrust settlement with the company. Jun 30, 2004 Microsoft settles class-action suit with Mass. As in other class-action settlements by Microsoft, Massachusetts customers will be able to claim vouchers to use for software or hardware. Jun 30, 2004 Microsoft settles Arizona antitrust suit Microsoft is offering $104.6 million in product vouchers to settle an Arizona class-action lawsuit that accused it of using its monopoly power to overcharge for software. Jun 29, 2004 Windows XP update could cause support chaos The service pack could create problems, including breaking current applications, disrupting networking setups and prompting nontechnical users to make PC configuration decisions that may be beyond their grasp. Jun 28, 2004 EC grants stay on Microsoft sanctions The European Commission yesterday temporarily suspended its March decision requiring Microsoft to offer a version of its Windows OS without Windows Media Player, one day before the sanction was to go into effect. Jun 28, 2004 Microsoft, Fujitsu team up on mission-critical systems The companies plan to work on the development of Fujitsu servers based on Intel's Itanium processors and Microsoft's Windows Server 2003 and its next-generation operating system, code-named Longhorn. Jun 28, 2004 Microsoft: Getting to Secure Enough Opinion: Robert L. Mitchell says Windows XP Service Pack 2 is notable not just for what it does but also for showing how far Microsoft may be willing to go to improve the security of Windows. Jun 28, 2004 Microsoft urges patch application to fight latest server threat Microsoft is urging users to deploy a previously announced patch to mitigate exposure to the latest threat to IIS 5.0 Web servers, even as there is uncertainty over how widespread the problem is. Jun 25, 2004 Microsoft to seek EC antitrust remedy delay Microsoft is expected to ask the European Union's Court of First Instance to suspend the antitrust fine and remedies imposed in March until the court decides whether to back the decision, a process that could take five years. Jun 24, 2004 Microsoft security software strategy roils sector Microsoft, which has a major security update for Windows in the works, also plans to offer its own antivirus software and is rumored to be eyeing the acquisition of a major software security maker. Jun 23, 2004 Users Stall in Testing Win XP Service Pack Microsoft last week made available another test version of its new security-focused Service Pack for Windows XP. But many corporate users haven't started testing it. Jun 21, 2004 France looks to open-source in challenge to Microsoft At stake is more than $700 million worth of software to be introduced to French government computers over three years. Jun 18, 2004 IDC: Linux to take 29% of 2008 server shipments The percentage of servers shipped worldwide that run the Linux operating system will more than double by 2008, according to IDC. Jun 17, 2004 Microsoft on track to offer antivirus software Microsoft Corp. is still on track to offer an antivirus product that will compete against similar software offered by Symantec Corp. and Network Associates Inc., the company said. Jun 17, 2004 Follow-up: Munich agrees to Linux migration plan The Munich city council chose not to publish details of the migration plan, which calls for replacing Microsoft's Windows operating system with Linux on 14,000 computers. Jun 17, 2004 Munich to decide on Linux deployment plan The Munich city council will vote today on a deployment plan aimed at moving all 14,000 of the city's computers to Linux and other open-source office applications. Jun 16, 2004 Linux wins another city over Windows Norway's second-largest city has decided to consolidate its older Windows and Unix servers on Novell's SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 8 Jun 16, 2004 Updated test version of Windows XP SP2 released The long-awaited Release Candidate 2 version of Service Pack 2 for Windows XP was made available to beta testers yesterday and should be posted to Microsoft's Web site soon. Jun 15, 2004 Apple Claims That Industry's Fastest ... On the Mark: Apple claims to have the world's fastest desktop computer, notes Mark Hall. Maybe. Maybe not. Jun 14, 2004 Microsoft files appeal in EU case Microsoft, as expected, today filed its official appeal to the European Union's Court of First Instance, defending itself against the European Commission's competition decision earlier this year. Jun 8, 2004 Microsoft releases monthly security patches It warned customers about a security vulnerability in a Windows component called IDirectPlay4, which is used to support multiplayer network games. Jun 8, 2004 CPU-based security for Windows XP, Red Hat Linux coming The upcoming Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 and the next version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3 will support new CPU-based security protections designed to stop incoming malicious executable code from being triggered. Jun 7, 2004 Microsoft set to appeal EC ruling The European Commission issued a sweeping ruling against Microsoft on March 24, finding that the company had abused its operating system dominance and ordering it to change its business practices and pay a $606.4 million fine. Jun 7, 2004 Microsoft Security Exec Details Windows XP Service Pack Plans Mike Nash, vice president of Microsoft's security business and technology unit, discussed the upcoming security-focused service pack for Windows XP with Computerworld. Jun 7, 2004 New worm targets two Microsoft vulnerabilities Security vendors said the new worm, known as either Plexus or Explet.A, doesn't pose a serious threat, but they issued software updates yesterday to detect it. Jun 4, 2004 Microsoft buys users time with extension Users were happy to learn that Microsoft will extend the support phase for business and developer products to a minimum of 10 years. But the extension won't apply to all products. May 31, 2004 Q&A: Microsoft's Thompson talks about Exchange plans David Thompson, a Microsoft corporate vice president who has been in charge of the Exchange Server group, talked about the company's road map for its Exchange Server e-mail and calendaring product. May 26, 2004 Microsoft offers glimpse of Windows Server 2003 R2 At its Tech Ed conference, Microsoft showed off an early version of Windows Server 2003 R2, which is meant to bridge the gap between Windows Server 2003 and Longhorn Server, due out in 2007. May 26, 2004 Microsoft extends product support to 10 years The updated support policy is valid for Microsoft's business and developer products currently in the mainstream support phase, as well as future products, but it doesn't apply to consumer, hardware, multimedia and Microsoft Business Solutions products. May 25, 2004 Microsoft lawsuit leads to e-mail destruction questions As part of a patent infringement and antitrust case, a U.S. District Court judge has told Microsoft to provide more information about a four-year-old e-mail from a company vice president telling employees to delete e-mail after 30 days. May 24, 2004 Sidebar: Users Rate Microsoft Last in Licensing Policies Survey respondents ranked Microsoft dead last in the area of licensing and upgrade policies. That's bad news for the company's Software Assurance program. May 24, 2004 A ‘pear’ of projects plans to offer Mac OS on PCs A team of open-source developers has released software, dubbed PearPC, that emulates the PowerPC processor architecture and enables users to run Mac OS and some Unix operating systems on PCs powered by Intel’s x86-architecture processors. May 20, 2004 Microsoft Unfolds Its Windows Server Road Map Microsoft last week cleared up its murky plans for Windows Server, setting release dates of 2005 for a product update code-named R2 and 2007 for the next major release, known as Longhorn. May 17, 2004 Muglia Discusses Competitive Threat From Linux Bob Muglia, senior vice president of Microsoft's Windows Server division, says the cost of open-source and Microsoft approaches to solving problems is comparable. May 17, 2004 Q&A: Microsoft's Windows Server chief on Linux, 64-bit computing Microsoft Senior Vice President Bob Muglia last week discussed the road map for Windows Server, the competitive threat posed by Linux and the promise of 64-bit computing. May 17, 2004 New worm targets Sasser code flaw The new worm, tentatively named Dabber, takes advantage of a vulnerability in an FTP server component in the Sasser worm and may have infected thousands of computers. May 14, 2004 Wallon worm uses Yahoo, IE flaw to spread Like other mass-mailing worms, Wallon has its own SMTP engine and grabs e-mail addresses from files stored on compromised computers. May 13, 2004 Microsoft exec nails down Windows Server road map Microsoft this week cleared up its murky road map for Windows Server -- setting 2005 for a product update code-named R2 and 2007 for the next major release, known as Longhorn. May 13, 2004 Microsoft confirms delay of Virtual PC 7 The Windows emulator software now isn't expected to be out until sometime in the second half of the year. May 13, 2004 Microsoft warns of noncritical flaw in some versions of Windows The company released a software patch and a security bulletin describing a flaw in the Windows Help and Support Center that could allow remote attackers to run malicious code on vulnerable Windows machines. May 12, 2004 Yet another Sasser worm appears Antivirus software companies issued warnings about the new worm, Sasser-F, which one antivirus expert called a crude adaptation that was unlikely to spread widely. May 11, 2004 Sasser arrest seen as small step in cybercrime fight The swift arrest of the Sasser worm's creator, while welcome, is only a small step in tracking down the perpetrators of such attacks, experts said. May 10, 2004 Suspect arrested in Phatbot, Agobot malware case A 21-year-old German man was arrested Friday and has admitted to creating the ubiquitous Trojan horse programs Agobot and Phatbot, but he isn't connected to the alleged author of the Sasser Internet worm, who was also arrested last week. May 10, 2004 Despite arrest, new variant of Sasser worm appears The Sasser.E worm exploits the same Microsoft Windows LSASS vulnerability targeted by its predecessors and has already infected millions of computers, according to security specialist PandaLabs. May 10, 2004 Microsoft Outlines Plans for Longhorn, 64-bit Computing At its WinHEC conference last week, Microsoft outlined its latest plans for Longhorn and 64-bit Windows, and a proposal designed to help users connect devices via Web services. May 10, 2004 Sasser worm suspect confesses to German police In what police called the largest case of its kind, an 18-year-old computer science student was arrested yesterday in connection with the creation of the Sasser worm. May 8, 2004 Sasser outbreak demonstrates need for quick patch response Sasser's limited impact on the corporate world demonstrates that good vulnerability management is the best defense against malicious attacks. May 7, 2004 Microsoft revisits NGSCB security plan Microsoft is retooling its Next-Generation Secure Computing Base so that at least part of the security benefits will be available without the need to recode applications. May 6, 2004 Security experts warn of nastier Sasser worm The Sasser worm could combine with the 2-month-old Netsky worm and become a launching pad for further Web attacks, putting it on par with Blaster, security experts warned. May 6, 2004 Microsoft calls for 64-bit driver support The software maker announced at its annual WinHEC event that it plans to deliver versions of Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 for 64-Bit Extended Systems in the fourth quarter. May 5, 2004 Microsoft aligns Longhorn client and server work Jim Allchin, vice president of Microsoft's platforms group, said at the company's annual WinHEC event yesterday that the Longhorn client and server products are now May 5, 2004 Microsoft: Almost 1.5M download Sasser cleanup tool The number of downloads is an indication of the number of Windows computers infected by the Sasser worm, and it's bigger than most estimates from computer security companies. May 5, 2004 Sasser infections hit Amex, others The SANS Institute's Internet Storm Center continued a May 4, 2004 Experts weigh Sasser-Netsky worm connection Analysis of the Sasser and Netsky code reveals many similarities between the two worms, even as a new version of Netsky appeared today that capitalized on fears of Sasser by posing as an antivirus software patch, experts said. May 3, 2004 Microsoft, law enforcement officials pursuing Sasser author Microsoft issued a statement yesterday saying it is working with the Northwest CyberCrime Taskforce to analyze malicious code in the Sasser worm and in a Trojan program called Agobot. May 3, 2004 Corporate users wary of Sasser worm as new variants appear As variants of the Sasser worm spread across the Internet, the impact on businesses has been minimal, apparently because of the standard firewall, network-filtering and antivirus systems most companies have in place. May 3, 2004 Sasser spawns children, headaches New variations of the Sasser Internet worm, named Sasser.B and Sasser.C, were identified today by antivirus companies, just days after the first version of the worm appeared. May 3, 2004 Shameless Frankly Speaking: Microsoft says IT is to blame for so many security problems in its products, which is why the billion-dollar patching bills are all yours. May 3, 2004 Windows Datacenter Grows Up, Gains Ground Microsoft's Windows Server Datacenter Edition is gaining maturity and increasing usage -- and is experiencing some growing pains as some users try to squeeze out better performance. May 3, 2004 Worm unleashed that exploits latest Windows security holes, Microsoft warns The company again urged users to apply the most recent critical updates. May 2, 2004 Microsoft SSL patch creating SSLowdowns A recently released software patch for the Windows operating system is causing some Windows 2000 machines to stop responding after it is installed, according to Microsoft. Apr 29, 2004 Windows XP update delayed As recently as last week, Microsoft said Service Pack 2 for Windows XP would be out in the first half of the year. But the update has been delayed because testing hasn't been completed and changes to it are still being made. Apr 29, 2004 More attack code surfaces for recent MS security holes The code can be used by a remote attacker to trigger a buffer overrun vulnerability in the Local Security Authority Subsystem, although security companies have not yet found it in the wild. Apr 26, 2004 Microsoft's Delay Is Your Gain Opinion: Longhorn, the next Windows client, has been pushed back to 2006. You can work this to your advantage, says Michael Gartenberg. Apr 26, 2004 Sidebar: No Timetable Set for Sun-Microsoft Product Interoperability Sun CEO Scott McNealy said his company will gain from its settlement with Microsoft, and he has some clear product interoperability goals. But no timetable has been set. Apr 26, 2004 No timetable set for Sun-Microsoft product interoperability Sun CEO Scott McNealy said his company will gain from its settlement with Microsoft, and he has some clear product interoperability goals. But no timetable has been set. Apr 23, 2004 Unveiling of EU Microsoft ruling reignites antitrust debate The release of the ruling yesterday, nearly a month after the European Commission found Microsoft guilty of monopoly abuse, prompted a strong rebuttal from the software company. Apr 23, 2004 Microsoft settles Minnesota antitrust pricing suit The Minnesota case was one of several class-action lawsuits brought against Microsoft on behalf of consumers following the U.S. government's antitrust case. Apr 19, 2004 Microsoft Draws User Ire With Its Latest Release of Patches Microsoft's latest round of patches, aimed at fixing 20 vulnerabilities in a wide range of Windows software, is infuriating, some users said last week. Apr 19, 2004 Sidebar: Linux Vendors Claim Forrester Report Favored Microsoft A recent report from Forrester Research comparing security on Linux and Windows systems is being sharply criticized by four major Linux distributors as being biased against them. Apr 19, 2004 Brief: Vulnerability database goes live The Open Source Vulnerability Database was launched to provide better technical information on security vulnerabilities. Apr 16, 2004 Linux vendors claim Forrester Report favored Microsoft A recent report from Forrester Research comparing security on Linux and Windows systems is being sharply criticized by four major Linux distributors as being biased against them. Apr 16, 2004 Latest Microsoft patches draw user ire 'It has become comical that these patches are released so frequently,' one network services manager complained. Apr 16, 2004 Microsoft releases patches to fix 20 flaws Microsoft today released fixes for 20 vulnerabilities, several of which are rated critical, in a wide range of products, including the latest Windows Server 2003 software. Apr 13, 2004 Microsoft to cut some Longhorn features Core improvements will remain, a Microsoft spokesman says, but some features and functions will be trimmed so the new Windows release can make it out the door in time. Apr 12, 2004 Microsoft, Micro Focus form alliance to target mainframes The two companies are pushing the migration of mainframe applications onto Intel servers running Windows with Microsoft's .Net technology. Apr 8, 2004 Windows to remain security risk for years to come Microsoft Corp.'s efforts to limit the ongoing damage from worms such as Blaster will not pay off for several years, according to security experts. Apr 7, 2004 Ballmer: Everyone has stake in cybersecurity In a speech at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer outlined the steps the company has taken since January 2002 to make security a top priority. Apr 7, 2004 Perfect Storm Brewing for Microsoft? Opinion: Three troubled fronts could converge to wreak havoc for the software giant. Apr 5, 2004 Users cautiously optimistic about Sun/Microsoft accord Users welcomed today's announcement of a truce between Sun and Microsoft, but they won't be ready to applaud until they see the vendors live up to their promise to cooperate with each other. Apr 2, 2004 Longhorn beta likely to slip into 2005 Microsoft had planned to deliver a beta version of its next Windows release, in mid-2004. But many developers working on it have been reassigned to work on Service Pack 2 for Windows XP. Apr 2, 2004 Update: Sun, Microsoft settle suit in billion-dollar pact Sun said today it has entered into a Apr 2, 2004 Users cautiously optimistic about Sun-Microsoft accord Users welcomed the announced truce between Sun and Microsoft, but they won't be ready to applaud until they see the vendors live up to the promise of technical cooperation. Apr 2, 2004 Gates suggests 2006 Longhorn release Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates yesterday suggested that the next version of Windows would be released in 2006, but he cautioned that release dates are fluid. Mar 30, 2004 Microsoft previews Windows CE 5.0 Microsoft will release a technology preview kit for its newest version of its embedded OS, Windows CE 5.0, which features improved security features, VoIP support and drivers for wide range of hardware. Mar 29, 2004 Shark Tank: A little too impressive New company president sets up an IT task force to cut the large number of hard-copy reports printed every month -- and members of the group come up with a dramatic way of demonstrating the problem. ... Mar 29, 2004 Unbundled Future Frankly Speaking: The EU's decision to fine Microsoft and force it to strip out its Media Player from Windows gives Microsoft an opportunity to compete on its merits, not its monopoly, writes Frank Hayes. Mar 29, 2004 Europe Demands Server Jewels From Microsoft For corporate users, the most important aspect of the European Commission's antitrust ruling against Microsoft is its effort to seek server interoperability. Mar 29, 2004 Dell Boosts NAS Capacity By Adding External Storage Dell's first network-attached storage device for low-end Windows servers supported only internal storage using Serial ATA disk drives, but now the company is rolling out a model that can be configured with external SCSI drives for increased scalability. Mar 29, 2004 New Microsoft program: 'You patch, we pay' As part of its Patch Assurance Security Service, Microsoft provides free security audits to enterprise customers and pays for third-party security consultants to do the audits. Mar 25, 2004 Microsoft rolls out game development software XNA system will underpin games for future versions of the Xbox, as well as for the Windows and Windows Mobile operating systems. Mar 25, 2004 DOJ critiques EU's Microsoft ruling U.S. Assistant Attorney General Hewitt Pate said the antitrust decision against Microsoft by the European Commission could stifle innovation and help the company's rivals instead of promoting fair competition. Mar 25, 2004 European Commission fines Microsoft $613M in antitrust case As expected, the European Commission today fined Microsoft $613 million and ordered it to offer a version of its Windows operating system without the Windows Media Player software within 90 days. Mar 24, 2004 Server issue could be key in EU decision against Microsoft The antitrust decision released today by the European Commission against Microsoft could be important to corporate customers because of what it says about server-to-server interoperability. Mar 24, 2004 Microsoft: $610M EU fine too big The European Commission is expected to rule on Wednesday that Microsoft abused the monopoly position of its Windows operating system twice. Mar 22, 2004 Nebraska court revives class-action suit against Microsoft The Nebraska Supreme Court sent the class-action lawsuit, which alleges that Microsoft used its monopoly power to overcharge for Windows, back to a lower court for further hearings. Mar 22, 2004 Muglia: No Longhorn Before 2006 Q&A: Bob Muglia, senior vice president of Microsoft's Windows Server division, confirmed last week that the next major version of the Windows server operating system, code-named Longhorn, will be released no earlier than 2006. Mar 22, 2004 Users Want Microsoft to Feel Patch Management Urgency Users at Microsoft's management summit last week didn't hear what they were hoping to about the company's progress in giving them the patch management help they need. Mar 22, 2004 Expected EU ruling on Microsoft could set precedent The stage is set for the European Union to announce a series of antitrust remedies and declare Microsoft an abusive monopolist, setting a precedent that will make it easier to prosecute other complaints against the company. Mar 19, 2004 Microsoft still faces U.S. legal challenges Although it has made steady progress in moving beyond its U.S. antitrust problems, Microsoft still faces legal challenges back home. Mar 18, 2004 Microsoft-EU antitrust talks collapse Competition Commissioner Mario Monti said that despite strenuous efforts by Microsoft to meet the European Commission's concerns, a settlement of the case Mar 18, 2004 Microsoft aims to save users from themselves in XP update In its latest update to Windows XP, Microsoft focused on helping people become more aware of what they need to do to bolster security on their computers, according to Ryan Burkhardt, lead program manager for Service Pack 2. Mar 18, 2004 EU Commission expects Microsoft probe results next week With last-minute talks to settle a landmark EU antitrust suit against Microsoft still under way today, a European Commission spokeswoman said the group is determined to make a final decision in the case on March 24. Mar 17, 2004 Q&A: Microsoft's Bob Muglia on Longhorn plans, company road map The senior vice president of Microsoft's Windows Server Division confirmed that the next major version of the Windows server operating system -- code-named Longhorn -- won't be out until 2006. Mar 17, 2004 Antitrust regulators back European Commission's ruling on Microsoft Barring a last-minute settlement, the commission is expected to declare Microsoft an abusive monopolist, impose a fine and order the company to make fundamental changes in how it sells software in Europe. Mar 15, 2004 Sidebar: Windows to 'Reload' XP? Microsoft says it's exploring the possibility of a client version of Windows to be released before Longhorn. Mar 15, 2004 Sidebar: Windows Server 2003 Feature Packs Here is a summary of the feature packs in Windows Server 2003. Mar 15, 2004 Microsoft Likely to Update Win Server '03, but Many Users Shrug Microsoft confirmed earlier this month that it will likely introduce an update to Windows Server 2003 that includes the add-on feature packs it has released since the product shipped last April. But some users are unimpressed by the prospect. Mar 15, 2004 Microsoft looks to release Windows Server 2003 update Microsoft confirmed Friday that it will likely introduce an update to Windows Server 2003 that includes the add-on feature packs it has released since the product shipped last April. Mar 8, 2004 Windows XP SP2 could break existing applications Software developers have been warned by Microsoft to test their code against a beta version of Service Pack 2 or face the prospect that the update could cause problems with their programs. Mar 5, 2004 Tips on protecting your servers There are straightforward steps that IT managers can take to keep their critical servers up and running, says Gijo Mathew, a technology strategist at Computer Associates. Mar 4, 2004 Users Weigh Merits Of 'Windows Lite' Microsoft's decision to offer a lighter, less expensive Thai-language version of Windows has spurred discussion in other parts of the world about the prospects of more limited-function versions of Windows and Office. Mar 1, 2004 Sidebar: Users Wary About Open-Source Alternatives to Windows OS Even though many corporate IT managers say that they think Windows and Office are overpriced, they aren't necessarily rushing to open-source alternatives. Mar 1, 2004 Microsoft Shows Off New Security Features Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates outlined new Windows security features, protection technologies and a new antispam initiative at last week's RSA Conference in San Francisco. Mar 1, 2004 Microsoft mulls interim Windows release before Longhorn Microsoft has said repeatedly that it has no plans for an interim Windows release to fill the gap between Windows XP and Longhorn, the code name for a major new operating system due out in about 2006. Feb 27, 2004 Microsoft to make Longhorn vulnerability-aware The upcoming Longhorn release of Windows will be designed to protect users against security threats by monitoring system and network behavior as well as security patches from Microsoft. Feb 26, 2004 Japan's fair trade agency raids Microsoft offices As part of an investigation into anticompetitive practices by the company, eight officials from Japan's Fair Trade Commission entered the Japanese offices of Microsoft early today. Feb 26, 2004 Crypto stars sound off on e-voting, digital rights management A panel of cryptographers at the RSA Conference weighed in on a variety of hot button issues, including electronic voting and rights management for digital media. Feb 25, 2004 EC may force Microsoft to sell two Windows versions One remedy that could emerge from the European Commission's antitrust case against Microsoft is a requirement that it sell a version of Windows without its Media Player installed, sources close to the case said. Feb 25, 2004 Gates promotes Microsoft's security efforts at RSA show The company is adding a Feb 24, 2004 Microsoft, RSA aim to boost Windows security RSA's SecurID authentication technology will be integrated with Windows XP, Windows 2000 and Windows Server 2003. Feb 23, 2004 Leak prompts Microsoft to audit Windows code Analysts and security experts have warned that the recent Windows source-code breach could lead to more cyberattacks because it could make it easier for hackers to find holes in the operating systems. Feb 23, 2004 Browser Hole Discovered After Code Leak Windows source code that was leaked on the Internet earlier this month has led to the discovery of a vulnerability in IE5. Feb 23, 2004 Secret Windows code leaked on Internet Incomplete portions of Windows NT and Windows 2000 source code were Feb 13, 2004 French government to test open-source on the desktop Introducing open-source software will give the government experience in managing competing suppliers and will help it evaluate the interoperability and life-cycle costs of different systems, a French official said. Feb 11, 2004 Microsoft issues patches for three new Windows vulnerabilities The critical flaw involves an unchecked buffer in Microsoft's Abstract Syntax Notation One (ASN.1) Library, which is widely used by Windows security subsystems. Feb 10, 2004 German finance ministry division says 'ja' to Linux The German Finance Ministry division responsible for paying public-sector employees and for managing certain taxes installed two IBM mainframe computers that run both IBM's z/OS and Linux. Feb 10, 2004 Review: Windows XP's big security fix Microsoft's Windows XP Service Pack 2 due later this year provides much of the basic plumbing needed for a better-protected operating system. Feb 9, 2004 Microsoft releases Windows XP public beta for Athlon 64 As of yesterday, any user of a PC or workstation with AMD's new 64-bit processors can sign up to get the beta version of 64-bit Windows XP through Microsoft's Customer Preview Program. Feb 4, 2004 EU fighting yesterday's war against Microsoft? Microsoft last week began offering features familiar to users of Google -- a Microsoft search tool bar with a pop-up blocker, a feature that stops unwanted small windows, often with ads, from showing up. Feb 4, 2004 Microsoft patches Internet Explorer flaws Microsoft has released a security patch to fix three known vulnerabilities in its Internet Explorer Web browser, including a change in the browser's basic authentication functionality. Feb 3, 2004 Q&A: Microsoft's Jim Hebert on enticing NT users to upgrade Jim Hebert, general manager of the Windows Server product management group, said Microsoft employees or partners can bring hardware to a customer's site and set up a lab so the user can do a dry run on the new Windows operating system. Feb 2, 2004 Microsoft Aims to Prevent NT Users' Shift to Linux Microsoft last week promoted new hands-on labs, improved migration tools, prescriptive guidance, discounted training and other services to help users of Windows NT Server 4.0 migrate to newer versions of Windows. Feb 2, 2004 Microsoft delays major changes to Web browser An Illinois jury last year delivered a $521 million verdict against Microsoft for infringing on technology developed by a privately held firm, Eolas Technologies Inc., and the University of California. Jan 30, 2004 Windows Server to get orchestration features The technology will be lifted from BizTalk Server, which is designed to help companies integrate disparate business applications and connect to business partners. Jan 30, 2004 Microsoft: Change to IE will block some Web URLs Microsoft is fixing a flaw in its popular Internet Explorer Web browser that makes it easy to mask the real address of a Web page displayed by the browser. Jan 29, 2004 IBM announces enterprise-class NAS gateway device The NAS Gateway 500 system, which is based on IBM's pSeries server, is a file server head that has up to four processors and connects servers and PCs on IP networks to Fibre Channel-based storage. Jan 27, 2004 Microsoft to devote more of its R&D budget to security Microsoft said today that it will devote a larger part of its massive $6.8 billion research and development budget to making its software more secure and reliable. Jan 27, 2004 Draft EC ruling finds Microsoft guilty in antitrust case Officials at the European Commission circulated a draft ruling that finds Microsoft guilty of abusing the monopoly power of its Windows operating system, according to people close to the commission. Jan 27, 2004 EC circulating final draft of antitrust ruling in Microsoft case European Commission antitrust officials have drafted a final ruling in the 6-year-long antitrust case against Microsoft, with a decision Jan 26, 2004 IBM Entices Windows NT Users to Linux IBM last week announced a training and discount program to lure existing Windows NT users to Linux. Jan 26, 2004 Judge satisfied with how Microsoft antitrust pact is working U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly brushed aside concerns from the Justice Department that a key provision has failed to live up to expectations. Jan 23, 2004 Microsoft to detail protocol licensing changes The changes include a shorter license agreement and the end of royalties Microsoft currently charges for about two dozen software communications protocols. Jan 22, 2004 Plan on Server Virtualization Running multiple Jan 21, 2004 IBM offers Linux migration from Windows NT The program, announced ahead of this week's LinuxWorld show in New York, offers business partners free migration classes and some discounts on software and services. Jan 20, 2004 New e-mail worm spreading worldwide The worm affects computers running several versions of the Windows operating system, including Windows 2000, 95, 98, ME, NT, XP and Windows Server 2003. Jan 20, 2004 States want Microsoft licensing program improved The Microsoft Communications Protocol Program was designed to foster the development of non-Microsoft software products by competitors. Jan 19, 2004 Gazing Into the Cyber-Crystal Ball Opinion: Nicholas Petreley predicts 2004 will bring a networked computer revolution and the decline of Internet Explorer. Jan 19, 2004 Microsoft to tweak online shopping to meet antitrust restrictions Microsoft will change an online music shopping feature that, when activated, automatically launches Internet Explorer even if a computer user prefers to use a different Web browser. Jan 15, 2004 Microsoft ordered to pay Eolas $520M in patent case U.S. District Court Judge James B. Zagel reaffirmed an earlier jury decision against Microsoft regarding the patent, which covers the use of applets or plug-ins in Web browsers. Jan 15, 2004 Brief: Microsoft to release free Unix/Windows integration package The company's Services For Unix 3.5, which will be available for download on Thursday, boosts NFS and eight-way clustering performance. Jan 14, 2004 Microsoft extends Windows 98, ME support to 2006 The high volume of support calls for the operating systems from users in small, emerging markets, including Kazakhstan, Kenya, Slovenia, Tunisia and Ivory Coast, drove the decision, Microsoft officials said. Jan 12, 2004 Neither 10 Nor Two Frankly Speaking: Frank Hayes asks, Are there open-source alternatives good enough for you to use? It's a good time to find out because, if so, you can use them to negotiate a better deal with Microsoft. Jan 12, 2004 New Trojan masquerades as Windows XP update A new Trojan horse program known as Xombe or Dloader-L is spreading via spam e-mail and masquerading as a Windows XP software update from Microsoft. Jan 9, 2004 Microsoft broadens server beta for AMD 64-bit systems The beta version of Windows Server 2003 Enterprise Edition for 64-Bit Extended Systems is available for anyone who wants to try it out through a customer preview program. Jan 7, 2004 Israel snubs Microsoft, moves to open-source software Government agencies in Israel will use the Microsoft products they already have but won't upgrade them, and the government is now promoting open-source alternatives. Jan 6, 2004 Users Turn to Microsoft's SMS for Patch Management Users of Microsoft's Systems Management Server may not have been concerned about patch management when they originally bought the product. But that's turned into the No. 1 feature for those deploying the newly released version. Jan 5, 2004 2004: It's IT's Turn Frankly Speaking: Frank Hayes asks, What's in store for 2004? Staffing problems will reappear in key areas. And no long-promised technologies will save the day. But there is some hope for improving IT's standing with management. Dec 22, 2003 'Tis the Season to Predict Opinion: Here are 10 surprising predictions for the coming year. Dec 22, 2003 IT Lets Microsoft Pocket Ill-gotten Gains ... On the Mark: If you use Microsoft products and live in a state where the company has settled specific antitrust cases, you can collect some big bucks for your company. Dec 22, 2003 Open-source group issues Microsoft patch A decision by Openwares.org to post the Internet Explorer patch online is the latest example of third parties preempting Microsoft with fixes for security holes in the company's products. Dec 19, 2003 Real sues Microsoft, alleges monopoly abuse The lawsuit claims that Microsoft has forced PC manufacturers to include its Windows Media Player while at the same time placing restrictions on on the installation of competing players. Dec 19, 2003 Microsoft plans Windows 2000 Server retirement The retirement announcement comes eight months after the introduction of Windows Server 2003, the successor to Windows 2000 Server. Dec 18, 2003 New Microsoft unit will focus on core of Windows The Windows Core Operating System Division, working within the company's Platforms Group, will be responsible for development, program management and testing of the core OS. Dec 16, 2003 Sidebar: Security Play: Windows Installer 3.0 Microsoft says the next version of Windows Installer will have features aimed at enhanced security. Dec 15, 2003 Windows Installer QuickStudy: Windows Installer is a Windows service that allows applications to be installed cleanly and consistently and tracks the use of system resources to minimize conflicts. Dec 15, 2003 Demanding a Better Desktop Alternative IT managers have consolidated servers and data centers and are looking for new ways to cut desktop costs. The solution may be in the data center. It's called a server. Dec 15, 2003 Microsoft readies Windows XP Service Pack 2 beta The first beta test of a set of updates for Windows XP is designed to bolster the operating system's security and add support for Version 1.1 of Bluetooth and a new wireless LAN client. Dec 12, 2003 Microsoft probes IE flaw that allows spoofing of Web sites Microsoft is investigating a flaw in its Internet Explorer browser that could allow attackers to lure users to forged sites and reveal sensitive information. Dec 11, 2003 Study: Windows 98 prevalent as end of support looms AssetMetrix Inc., an Ottawa-based IT asset analysis tool vendor, found that 80% of 670 companies surveyed have at least one PC running either Windows 95 or Windows 98. Dec 11, 2003 Microsoft to stop offering host of older products Among the products it will cut from its distribution channels on Dec. 15 are most versions of Windows 98, Windows NT 4.0 Terminal Server Edition, all Office 2000 editions, Office XP Developer Edition and SQL Server 7. Dec 9, 2003 Windows Server 2003: Raising Shields Six months after its release, early adopters of Windows Server 2003 give a thumbs up to new security features, but the overall security report card is mixed. Dec 8, 2003 Sidebar: Windows' Big Turnoff: Expanded List Here's a list of services that either aren't installed or are turned off by default in Windows Server 2003. Dec 8, 2003 Sidebar: New Security-Related Features in Windows Server 2003 Here are the main security-related features Microsoft introduced with Windows Server 2003. Dec 8, 2003 Microsoft unveils new policy on intellectual property access It will create licensing programs offering access to a broad range of copyrights, trademarks, file formats and schema, software technology and Microsoft-developed standards specifications. Dec 3, 2003 Asian software pirates already selling next Windows OS The software is an early version of Longhorn demonstrated and distributed at a Microsoft programmers conference in October. Dec 1, 2003 Corporate Users Follow Mono Project Corporate developers are tracking Novell's open-source Mono project with great interest, but they worry about its developers being able to keep pace with .Net changes, Microsoft's ability to derail it and Novell's track record with acquisitions. Dec 1, 2003 After a Year, Tablet Still Niche Sales of tablet PC devices barely topped 400,000 units in the first 12 months that they were on the market, according to research firm IDC. Microsoft plans to upgrade its Tablet PC operating system by mid-2004 in a bid to give more users reasons to buy into the technology. Nov 24, 2003 EU could base antitrust deal on Windows XP Embedded But Microsoft has argued that changing its operating system would harm the way Windows works and said Windows XP Embedded is not a full operating system. Nov 17, 2003 Microsoft Plays Price Card to Grab Virtualization Share The virtualization technology produced by VMware has become a core technology in many IT shops. But as Microsoft capitalizes on rival technology it bought from Connectix, VMware will have to fight Microsoft's money, marketing and installed base. Nov 17, 2003 Sidebar: Microsoft Continues Virtual Mac Support Microsoft is continuing support for the Virtual PC for Mac product, but it hasn't lowered the cost, as it did for its Virtual PC for Windows acquisition. Nov 17, 2003 Microsoft rival says EU penalty won't hurt Windows The European Commission wrapped up its three-day hearing today on whether Microsoft has abused its dominance in computer operating systems. Nov 14, 2003 Microsoft to EU: Windows may be damaged if changed Although the antitrust hearing before the European Commission continues tomorrow, Microsoft lawyers said they're still hoping to reach a settlement. Nov 13, 2003 Eolas browser plug-in patent to be re-examined The plug-in technology patent has been the subject of a legal battle between its owners and Microsoft Corp. Nov 13, 2003 Microsoft clashes with European regulators After facing antitrust probes in the U.S., the company is now threatened with fines by the European Commission over similar complaints there. Nov 12, 2003 Microsoft patches three critical security problems Microsoft announced patches for three Nov 11, 2003 Microsoft wants Lindows claims rejected It said claims filed through a site run by Linux vendor Lindows.com Inc. don't meet the terms of the $1.1 billion class-action settlement announced in January. Nov 10, 2003 FTC charges company with using Windows to spam with pop-up ads The tactic involved the Windows Messenger Service, a software feature that allows network administrators to send messages to users. Nov 6, 2003 Office 2003 gets first 'critical' update The update fixes a problem that can occur when a user opens or saves a PowerPoint 2003, Word 2003 or Excel 2003 file containing an OfficeArt element that was modified and saved in an earlier version of Office. Nov 6, 2003 Official: China to invest in Linux-based software industry Japan, China and South Korea agreed in September to work together on a new operating system, and Japanese media reported they would likely build an open-source system such as Linux. Nov 5, 2003 Microsoft back in court on antitrust settlement appeal The six judges who heard the appeal were pointed in their questions about key aspects of the Microsoft antitrust settlement reached two years ago. Nov 4, 2003 Microsoft delivers rights management product Windows RMS is seen as a platform for enterprise digital rights management, meaning any software vendor can create applications that work with the technology. Nov 4, 2003 Microsoft back in court to defend antitrust pact The two sides will square off before a panel of judges in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, with critics arguing the settlement should be overturned. Nov 3, 2003 Programmers Welcome Longhorn Demos, but the Wait Continues Attendees showed keen interest in new technologies Microsoft demonstrated last week at its Professional Developers Conference, but enthusiasm was tempered because the products aren't expected to be released anytime soon. Nov 3, 2003 Q&A: Microsoft's Eric Rudder on Longhorn, Indigo, Web services Eric Rudder, senior vice president of servers and tools at Microsoft, declined to nail down a release date for Longhorn, but he was forthcoming about some of the new technologies the company demonstrated this week at its Professional Developers Conference. Oct 31, 2003 Microsoft to release threat-modeling tool The tool can display threats in a diagram after information such as usage scenarios and the environment in which the application will run is entered. Oct 31, 2003 Developers get hands on Microsoft's upcoming security technology Next-Generation Secure Computing Base (NGSCB) creates a second operating environment within a PC designed to protect the system from malicious code. Oct 30, 2003 EU quizzes hardware makers on Microsoft licenses The inquiry could turn into a separate antitrust investigation if the commission feels the company is using a Oct 30, 2003 Developer interest piqued by Microsoft technologies Many developers found the new technologies that Microsoft demonstrated this week at its Developers Conference interesting, but they're wondering when they might be able to use them. Oct 29, 2003 W3C sides with Microsoft against Eolas patent Microsoft has been ordered to pay $520.6 million to Eolas Technologies and the University of California, holders of a patent for the technology allowing interactive content to be embedded in a Web site. Oct 29, 2003 Microsoft settles state class-action lawsuits Microsoft agreed to pay $200 million to settle antitrust class-action lawsuits with North Carolina, Tennessee, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas and the District of Columbia. Oct 28, 2003 Gates shows off Longhorn at PDC Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates offered developers the next version of Windows, which he called the biggest release since Windows 95. Oct 27, 2003 Judge asks why Microsoft hasn't sold more licenses U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly wants to know why just nine companies have signed up to license Microsoft's technology for their own products. Oct 24, 2003 EDS extends product life-cycle management to Windows desktops A new EDS PLM product promises to bring the engineering function closer to the rest of the enterprise. Oct 24, 2003 Microsoft reports $8.2B in Q1 revenue, up 6% from last year Although the software giant saw strength across its consumer business, it said corporate IT spending was slow to improve during the quarter. Oct 23, 2003 Microsoft posts 'revisions' to security bulletins Two earlier patches released by Microsoft Corp. caused problems on foreign language versions of Windows and Exchange e-mail server and have been updated. Oct 23, 2003 Security Woes Aren't Unique to Microsoft Opinion: Michael Gartenberg claims that the rash of Windows security problems isn't all Microsoft's doing. We all share the blame. Oct 20, 2003 Microsoft releases consolidated patch for XP The new release, Update Rollup 1 for Microsoft Windows XP, was posted on the company's Web site and includes almost 9MB of security fixes for machines running the operating system. Oct 17, 2003 Microsoft issues patches for five software flaws The security update includes warnings about five Windows vulnerabilities, four of which the company deemed Oct 15, 2003 Microsoft's Autonomic IT Plan Starts With Development Tools, Exec Says In an interview, Microsoft Senior Vice President Bob Muglia said the company's Dynamic Systems Initiative autonomic computing strategy is focused more on lowering the cost of developing and operating applications than it is on managing the use of computer resources in data centers. Oct 13, 2003 Microsoft Releases Small-Business Bundles Microsoft last week announced an upgrade of Windows Small Business Server software bundle that is built around the Windows Server 2003 operating system and will be sold in standard and premium editions. Oct 13, 2003 Microsoft CEO Promises Better 'Patch Experience' Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer last week outlined a set of new initiatives the company is working on to improve the patch management process, provide added guidance and training to help companies secure their systems and make its products more resistant to attack. Oct 13, 2003 Microsoft automates Wi-Fi network setup Microsoft plans to offer Windows XP enhancements to make it easier for users to automatically log onto Wi-Fi networks. Oct 13, 2003 Microsoft unveils security initiatives New security features, a simplified software patch distribution process and new education programs are part of the effort to secure computers running Windows software. Oct 9, 2003 Multinational consensus pegs top 20 net vulnerabilities Because the list is backed by security and government experts, it is likely to carry more authority with companies seeking to bolster their computer security. Oct 8, 2003 Sidebar: CEO Responds on Firing The CEO of @stake Inc. responds to comments that former CTO Dan Geer made about his firing by the company following the release of a report, co-written by Geer, that criticized Microsoft's dominance of the software industry as a major contributor to IT security problems. Oct 6, 2003 Microsoft faces possible class-action suit over security breaches The proposed class-action suit claims that Microsoft's market-dominant software is vulnerable to viruses capable of triggering Oct 2, 2003 Trojan program uses Internet Explorer hole to hijack browsers By exploiting an unpatched hole in Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser, hackers used an attack Web site to install a Trojan horse program on vulnerable machines. Oct 2, 2003 Microsoft settles software sales dispute for $10.5M Consumers and businesses that bought software from Microsoft's Web site or through direct marketing campaigns before April 30 will get back a portion of the price paid. Oct 1, 2003 Former @stake CTO Dan Geer on Microsoft report, firing Dan Geer, until last week the CTO at @stake Inc., said he was fired after his participation in an independent study of the security implications of Microsoft's dominant hold on the software industry. Oct 1, 2003 Microsoft to lift lid on Longhorn at Professional Developers Conference The company is expected to provide details on the next version of Windows at its Professional Developers Conference, Oct. 26-30 in Los Angeles. Sep 30, 2003 Unpatched Microsoft browser hole a gold mine for hackers A security hole on Microsoft's Internet Explorer could provide hackers with a simple way to install exploit malicious programs on vulnerable machines through hacker Web sites and instant messaging applications. Sep 29, 2003 Juvenile arrested for creating Blaster variant The arrest comes four weeks after law enforcement officials arrested 18-year-old Jeffrey Lee Parson, who is charged with releasing the W32.Blaster-B variant of original Blaster worm. Sep 29, 2003 Anti-Microsoft security report mired in politics A report that may have made a significant contribution to the debate surrounding IT security is now the centerpiece of a political struggle that users say is misguided and futile. Sep 26, 2003 Microsoft prevails in Office Smart Tag patent suit Microsoft had been sued by a Wisconsin company that claimed that the Smart Tags function in the Office XP desktop software infringed on three of its patents. Sep 25, 2003 Researchers: Microsoft's dominance poses major security challenge An almost universal reliance on Microsoft products can leave enterprises less secure, according to a group of prominent IT security researchers. But their association with an anti-Microsoft group raised questions about their conclusions. Sep 25, 2003 Make the best choice for identity management Two consultants at Avanade outline infrastructure issues you should consider when integrating applications. Sep 25, 2003 Microsoft to support both AMD's and Intel's 64-bit chips The company expects the 64-bit version of Windows XP to be released during the first half of 2004. Sep 23, 2003 A Question of Credibility Editorial: Market research firms issue reports all the time. But are they objective or simply extensions of vendor marketing programs? And is the press an unknowing or uncaring dupe in the whole process? Sep 22, 2003 At Deadline Briefs Short news items about late-breaking IT developments. Sep 22, 2003 Microsoft begins security CD giveaway in Japan The CD, handed out at Japan's World PC Expo, contains Windows XP security patches, XP Service Pack 1, and an agent that checks the Windows Update site for patches and upgrades. Sep 19, 2003 Teenage computer-worm suspect indicted in Seattle Jeffrey Lee Parson, 18, has been accused of creating a variant of the Blaster worm and is due back in court Nov. 17. Sep 18, 2003 Hackers find way to exploit latest Windows vulnerability The creation of a working exploit is a key step toward building an Internet worm or virus that could infect vulnerable Windows systems. Sep 17, 2003 Ballmer: Security woes challenge innovation Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer characterized hackers and virus writers as modern-day versions of bank robbers in the Old West. Sep 16, 2003 Microsoft Agrees to Settle Suit by Former Rival Be Microsoft will pay more than $23 million to settle an antitrust lawsuit that was filed last year by Be Inc., a former operating system rival. But some BeOS developers are trying to reverse-engineer the software for continued use. Sep 15, 2003 Microsoft Launches Server Operating System for Storage Microsoft last week announced the general availability of a special version of its Windows server operating system designed to address customers' storage needs. Sep 15, 2003 Users Wary of Linux Report Microsoft's strategy of commissioning analyst firms to put out reports that make Linux look less appealing than Windows may not be making a big impact on skeptical users. Sep 15, 2003 Microsoft Plans Steady Stream of Evidence Microsoft-commissioned reports on Linux started long before last week, and the company has a plan to try to get customers take them seriously. Sep 15, 2003 Attacks on New Windows Flaws Expected Soon It isn't expected to take long for attackers to take advantage of the latest flaws in several versions of Windows. Sep 15, 2003 Security experts: New attacks likely to exploit latest Windows flaws Users won't have to wait long for attacks attempting to exploit the latest vulnerabilities that Microsoft announced yesterday, security experts warned. Sep 11, 2003 Microsoft delivers Windows Storage Server 2003 Windows Storage Server 2003 comes in an Enterprise Edition for enterprise data centers and in a Standard Edition for use as a dedicated file and print server. Sep 10, 2003 Microsoft warns of three critical flaws in most Windows versions Microsoft is urging users to immediately patch their systems against three critical new vulnerabilities affecting multiple Windows versions, including the latest Windows Server 2003. Sep 10, 2003 Hackers jump through holes in Microsoft patch Security experts are warning Microsoft customers of silent Internet attacks that exploit a security flaw in the Internet Explorer Web browser. Sep 9, 2003 Forrester: Linux development can be more costly than using Microsoft software The Microsoft-commissioned study estimated the cost of building custom J2EE and .Net applications within large and medium-size organizations. Sep 9, 2003 Microsoft, Be reach antitrust settlement In a 2002 lawsuit, Be alleged that Microsoft entered into anticompetitive agreements with PC makers that stopped it from getting its operating system sold alongside Windows. Sep 8, 2003 Corporate Network Blasted From Abroad Security Manager's Journal: Corporate IT control stops at the U.S. border, and that leaves Mathias' U.S. LAN open to worm attacks emanating from badly configured overseas networks. Sep 8, 2003 Microsoft on Trial Opinion: Nicholas Petreley says he knows what would happen if a prosecutor had the chance to cross-examine Microsoft about Blaster-B. Sep 8, 2003 Microsoft: Asia Windows rival raises fair competition concerns The plan by Japan, China and South Korea to develop an alternative to Microsoft's Windows software would raise concerns over fair competition, Microsoft said. Sep 5, 2003 Microsoft uses benchmarks to step up Linux assault The company said the new benchmark tests show that Linux on the mainframe lags behind Windows 2003 on Intel systems in terms of performance for the money. Sep 5, 2003 Microsoft warns about new software flaw in Office suite At risk are recent versions of Microsoft's Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, Visio, Word and Works applications. Sep 3, 2003 OpenOSX offers G5-accelerated WinTel emulator WinTel v1.0.1 is a new version of the open source Sep 3, 2003 Blaster Worm Linked to Severity of Blackout New revelations about the impact of Blaster on communications links controlling the electricity grid are raising concerns about the grid's security. Sep 1, 2003 Teenage Blaster Worm Suspect Under Investigation The 18-year-old suspect is believed to have made the worm more potent; the original Blaster author has still not been identified. Aug 29, 2003 IDC: Worldwide server sales on upswing in Q2 Although more server systems were sold around the world in the second quarter of this year, factory revenues of $10.6 billion were just 0.2% higher than in the same quarter a year ago. Aug 29, 2003 Update: Teenage Blaster worm suspect arrested Jeffrey Lee Parson, 18, of Hopkins, Minn., was arrested at home on one count of intentionally causing or attempting to cause damage to a computer. Aug 29, 2003 Update: Rival groups debate DHS deal with Microsoft The Computer & Communications Industry Association wants the nation's top homeland security agency to reconsider its deal with Microsoft. A rival group hit back at the CCIA. Aug 28, 2003 Why Windows Should Think Small Opinion: Microsoft should stop adding features and expanding the bloated Windows code base until it can demonstrate a higher level of security. Aug 25, 2003 Microsoft, users cope with worms' chaos Even executives pitched in to man the phones as the Blaster worm caused the largest spike in call volume that Microsoft has ever encountered as a result of any virus or worm. Aug 25, 2003 Microsoft explores automatic patching Microsoft is considering a way to automatically apply security patches to PCs remotely in a bid to get more users to secure their computers. Aug 22, 2003 Gartner: Microsoft cuts Windows price to $40 in Thailand Market research firm Gartner Inc. said Microsoft reduced the price of its Office and Windows software in Thailand and suggested that the move could lead to lower prices elsewhere. Aug 22, 2003 Blaster worm attack a bust An expected denial-of-service attack against Microsoft's software update Web site was cut off as computers infected with the W32.Blaster worm failed to find their target. Aug 18, 2003 Patching Becoming a Major Resource Drain for Companies The incessant need to patch systems against threats such as last week's Blaster worm could soon become unsustainable, users said. Aug 18, 2003 Windows Update Patch Process Faulty, Expert Says A security expert claims Microsoft's Windows Update has a serious shortcoming, but Microsoft denies it. Aug 18, 2003 Microsoft, facing attack, releases Blaster security advice Concerned about a possible attack against its Web site by computers infected by the Blaster worm, Microsoft released a set of security guidelines for users today. Aug 15, 2003 Microsoft.com falls to DOS attack Yesterday's attack, the second successful denial-of-service attack against Microsoft.com this month, wasn't linked to the Blaster worm. Aug 15, 2003 Federal security organizations repel Blaster worm Quick action to patch vulnerable systems and existing security processes helped federal agencies avoid the infection by the worm. Aug 14, 2003 Microsoft patch process called into question Microsoft's patch management program has a critical shortcoming that could let users think their systems have been properly patched when they haven't, according to a security analyst. Aug 14, 2003 Variation of Blaster worm now showing up Two security firms are reporting the appearance of a Blaster worm variant that takes advantage of the same flaw as the original worm. Aug 13, 2003 Microsoft ordered to pay $520M in patent dispute Eolas Technologies and the University of California had accused Microsoft of improperly including technology in its browser that allows interactive content to be embedded in a Web site. Aug 12, 2003 Blaster worm spreading; experts warn of attack Blaster takes advantage of a known vulnerability in a Windows component that handles messages sent using the RPC protocol. Aug 12, 2003 IBM, Bankers at Odds Over OS/2 Migration Path IBM is encouraging OS/2 users to migrate to Linux. But users in the last bastion of OS/2 computing, branch banking, are locked into a Windows migration path being paved by ATM manufacturers. Aug 11, 2003 Microsoft Plans Foray Into Web Services Management A Microsoft executive said the company will move into the Web services management market with technology in its Windows server operating system as well as new offerings under the System Center banner. Aug 11, 2003 EU's power to be tested in Microsoft showdown The European Commission said again that it intends to fine Microsoft for damaging competition in the past and would require changes to preserve competition in the future. Aug 7, 2003 Update: European Commission threatens to fine Microsoft The European Commission could fine Microsoft Corp. 10% of its global annual sales for monopoly offenses. Aug 6, 2003 Study: Linux nears Windows XP usability A usability study from Relevantive AG indicates Linux has evolved into an operating system that is almost as easily to master as Microsoft Corp.'s Windows XP. Aug 4, 2003 Microsoft Lays Out Tools Road Map Microsoft last week detailed major features planned for the next two versions of its Visual Studio tools, but the company remained vague about the time frame. Aug 4, 2003 CERT warns of attacks, new holes in Windows In the past two days, CERT has received reports of thousands of systems compromised using variations of the malicious code, which is known as DCOM RPC. Aug 1, 2003 Concerns mount over possible big Net attack The U.S. Department of Homeland Security updated an earlier warning about a Windows security vulnerability, noting increased network scanning and the distribution of working exploits on the Internet. Jul 31, 2003 Governments take a peek at Microsoft Windows code Under its Government Software Program, Microsoft has opened up its flagship Windows operating system to governments interested in tailoring the software to fit their needs. Jul 31, 2003 Microsoft fixing another faulty patch The flawed patch corrected a vulnerability in Windows NT 4.0 Server's file management function that could leave machines running NT 4.0 vulnerable to denial-of-service attacks. Jul 30, 2003 Avoid Active Directory Pitfalls Incorporating the need for security, service levels and cost management in an operating system upgrade will help make a successful migration, says Xevo founder and COO Mark Hynes. Jul 29, 2003 Microsoft on the Offensive Against Open-Source Rival Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer last week used the occasion of the company's annual financial analyst meeting to try to cast doubt on the notion that the open-source operating system is cheaper, more secure and able to be patched more quickly than Windows. Jul 28, 2003 Ballmer takes on Linux Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer used the company's annual financial analyst meeting to try and cast doubt on the idea that Linux is cheaper, more secure and easier to patch than Windows. Jul 25, 2003 Gates: Longhorn to come with server and Office updates The timing of a server version of Longhorn, which Microsoft once said will be a client-only release, remains unclear. Jul 25, 2003 Microsoft makes more licensing concessions U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly said Microsoft allayed her concerns by making it easier for rivals to license computer code needed to make server software work properly with Windows. Jul 24, 2003 Microsoft's Charney tells Congress vulnerabilities are a fact of life Microsoft Corp.'s chief security strategist, Scott Charney, offered testimony to a House Armed Services Committee hearing on cyberterrorism and national security risks. Jul 24, 2003 DHS Had Little Choice but to Sign Microsoft Deal, Despite Security Flaws Lack of money, time and flexibility may have forced the Department of Homeland Security to lock itself into an enterprise deal with Microsoft without thinking through the security implications of relying on the vulnerability-laden code. Jul 21, 2003 Settlement OK'd in Microsoft class action case in California Under the settlement, individuals and businesses that bought Microsoft's software for use in California can get vouchers worth between $5 and $29. Jul 21, 2003 New Windows flaw raises fresh doubts about Microsoft security A widespread flaw affecting all Windows versions, including Windows Server 2003, is raising user doubts about the efficacy of Microsoft's Trustworthy Computing initiative. Jul 18, 2003 Massachusetts continues push on Microsoft antitrust appeal In court papers filed this week, Massachusetts officials argued that last year's antitrust case settlement doesn't stop Microsoft's anticompetitive behavior. Jul 18, 2003 Microsoft warns of widespread Windows vulnerability One critical vulnerability includes a buffer overrun in the implementation of a common protocol that could give remote attackers total control over a Windows system. Jul 16, 2003 Homeland Security Department to buy Microsoft software Microsoft will supply software for both desktops and servers within DHS, including Windows XP, Office XP, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Exchange and Windows Server 2003. Jul 16, 2003 Tips for Securing Your Windows Operating System Patches, service packs, hot fixes and quick fixes -- when should you install them, and when might they make things worse? Spirian CTO Joseph Sturonas offers advice. Jul 14, 2003 Dog Days of Unix? Unix is under intense competition from Linux and Windows, but IT managers still see it as the top operating system in the data center for years to come. Jul 14, 2003 Lack of Licensing Revives Criticism of Settlement The Bush administration-backed settlement with Microsoft is having little impact on the market, if licenses are any gauge. Jul 14, 2003 Microsoft warns of critical Windows flaw The security hole is caused by a buffer-overrun vulnerability in the Windows HTML converter, a component that enables the operating system to convert files from Rich Text Format to HTML. Jul 9, 2003 Massachusetts investigating Microsoft antitrust settlement In a status report submitted in District Court for the District of Columbia, Massachusetts Attorney General Tom Reilly listed five possible violations. Jul 8, 2003 Unix: Far From Legacy, but Far More Challenged Unix is the powerhouse of the enterprise, but it's under attack as users consider the hardware platform independence of the Linux and Windows operating systems. Jul 7, 2003 Support Ends for Windows NT 4.0 Workstation The extended support phase for Microsoft's Windows NT 4.0 Workstation operating system ended last week. Jul 7, 2003 Microsoft Metadirectory Services Gets New Identity Microsoft Identity Information Server 2003, which the company released to manufacturing last week, goes beyond the functionality of a traditional metadirectory by adding features such as automatic account provisioning and password management. Jul 7, 2003 Microsoft releases Identity Integration Server Microsoft Identity Information Server 2003, which the company released to manufacturing today, goes beyond the functionality of a traditional metadirectory by adding features such as automatic account provisioning and password management. Jul 2, 2003 Microsoft beats out Linux in 3 European government deals Cities in Germany, Latvia and Finland opted for Windows over Linux, Microsoft announced, ratcheting up its PR battle with open source. Jul 1, 2003 Support for Windows NT 4.0 Workstation ends The extended support phase for Microsoft's Windows NT 4.0 Workstation operating system ended yesterday. Jul 1, 2003 Microsoft releases iSCSI initiator Microsoft has released an iSCSI driver that vendors can add to their network interface cards, allowing users to back up their Windows servers across IP networks. Jul 1, 2003 Beating the Odds Editorial: Is it a lousy time to start a massive IT infrastructure project? So say the gloomy surveys. But a look at Hilton Hotels' success might change your mind. Jun 30, 2003 Update: U.S. Appeals Court sides with Microsoft on Java The three-judge panel in Richmond, Va., said a lower court judge had erred by ordering Microsoft to carry its rival's software. Jun 26, 2003 Microsoft rips into Massachusetts in antitrust case filing Massachusetts, the only state still fighting last year's antitrust case settlement, continues to pursue Jun 19, 2003 West Virginia drops Microsoft antitrust suit The company will provide consumers in the state with $18 million in vouchers for hardware, software or professional development services. Jun 17, 2003 Ballmer targets Linux in annual memo The memo covered several issues, from innovation and product development to people and productivity, but it clearly labeled Linux and open-source software as a threat to the company. Jun 5, 2003 Microsoft issues first patch for Windows Server 2003 Two security flaws in all current versions of Microsoft's Internet Explorer Web browser could allow an attacker to take over a user's system. Jun 4, 2003 Goldfinger's Heirs Microsoft is acting more like diabolical bad guy in a James Bond movie than a good corporate citizen. Jun 2, 2003 Microsoft to introduce security certifications Microsoft tomorrow will announce new security credentials for IT administrators and engineers who specialize in the area of security in a Windows environment. Jun 2, 2003 Microsoft Set to Ship NAS Upgrade to Storage Vendors The upgrade of Microsoft's network-attached storage technology is due to be released to hardware vendors this month and is expected to become available in storage devices by September. Jun 2, 2003 The True Costs of Software How much does "free" software really cost? That question remains at the heart of decisions made by CIOs and other technology leaders trying to decide what software and associated hardware will lead them into the future. May 29, 2003 Intel's Centrino may crash Windows when used with VPNs Intel's Centrino chip set can cause May 29, 2003 DOJ will defend Microsoft settlement The case involves an appeal of last year's antitrust deal brought by the Computer and Communications Industry Association and the Software & Information Industry Association. May 29, 2003 Microsoft, AOL Time Warner settle lawsuit for $750M AOL Time Warner had alleged that the software giant had violated antitrust law by unfairly promoting its Internet Explorer browser. May 29, 2003 Munich chooses SuSE Linux over Microsoft The decision came despite a late appeal from Microsoft that it be allowed to modify its proposal. May 28, 2003 Munich poised to select IBM, SuSE over Microsoft Seeking May 27, 2003 Microsoft yanks update after glitch discovered Users reported problems after installing the update to Microsoft's IPSec software because of the way it interacted with some third-party software. May 27, 2003 What Microsoft Customers Want Nicholas Petreley puts himself in the shoes of a satisfied Microsoft customer. May 26, 2003 Critics Question Motives in Microsoft/SCO Deal The SCO Group announced that Microsoft had licensed its Unix technology just days after SCO warned Linux users that they could become legal targets as part of its campaign to enforce intellectual property claims SCO has made on Unix. May 26, 2003 Microsoft looks beyond Windows with data center plan The software maker plans to open its emerging architecture for data centers so servers running other operating systems can be part of any data center using Microsoft's technology. May 22, 2003 Discount funds raise competition concerns about Microsoft Two publications reported yesterday that a Microsoft executive last year authorized the use of special funds to win over customers likely to move to open-source Linux software instead of Windows. May 16, 2003 EU mulls report of Microsoft antitrust pricing The European Commission is considering whether to order Microsoft Corp. to hand over internal memos that, according to two newspapers, spell out sales practices that could violate European antitrust rules. May 15, 2003 Longing for Longhorn? You'll have to wait till '05 Microsoft's successor to Windows XP will hit the market after a prebeta release late this year for developers and two beta versions in 2004. May 7, 2003 Two states seek tougher penalties against Microsoft in antitrust case Massachusetts and West Virginia, which haven't yet settled the case against Microsoft, say last year's remedy is flawed. May 6, 2003 Microsoft settles class-action suit with Montana group Under the deal, Microsoft will pay $12.3 million to a group of Montana residents who had alleged that the company violated the state's antitrust and unfair competition laws. May 6, 2003 Gates: Software will better support hardware At the start of Microsoft's Windows Engineering Hardware Conference, Bill Gates touted a number of upcoming products. May 6, 2003 Windows 2003 compatibility issues upset some IT pros Users hoping to upgrade to Windows Server 2003 and run older versions of Microsoft's most popular server applications will find limited options. May 5, 2003 Microsoft officials address compatibility issues with Windows Server 2003 Microsoft's Trustworthy Computing work has resulted in some application compatibility issues for Windows Server 2003. May 5, 2003 News Briefs Short news items about IT developments. May 5, 2003 EC still concerned about Microsoft monopoly abuse The European Commission is looking into whether Microsoft has used its operating systems software monopoly to move into the market for low-end computer server software. Apr 30, 2003 Microsoft publishes security guides for admins This is the first time Microsoft has published such security guides, which are part of the company's Trustworthy Computing initiative. Apr 29, 2003 Migration Tools Ease Windows Server 2003 Transition Both Microsoft and third-party vendors are preparing a wide range of tools that can smooth Windows Server 2003 migrations. Apr 28, 2003 Should You Upgrade? Windows 2003 Server includes a few key features that may drive some enterprise upgrades. Apr 28, 2003 Q&A: Microsoft's Veghte on Windows Server 2003 competition, future Bill Veghte, vice president of Microsoft's Windows Server group, talked about the competition its newly launched Windows Server 2003 faces and his thinking on future releases. Apr 25, 2003 Microsoft pushes back Office 2003 launch The decision to delay the launch until the third quarter of the year follows feedback from beta testers of a prerelease version of the software suite. Apr 25, 2003 Ballmer: Windows Server 2003 does more with less Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer made the server operating system's launch official, touting its reliability, manageability, scalability and security. Apr 24, 2003 Microsoft pulls patch that can slow Windows XP The move follows customer complaints that the patch slowed their XP operating system to a crawl. Apr 24, 2003 Microsoft's Windows Server 2003 takes flight The company officially takes the wraps off the much-anticipated server software this afternoon. Apr 24, 2003 Microsoft fixing patch that can slow Windows XP The move follows customer complaints that the patch slowed their XP operating system to a crawl. Apr 24, 2003 Latest Windows XP patch can slow down PCs Users say that Windows XP can take up to 10 seconds to start an application after a patch Microsoft released last week is installed. Apr 23, 2003 Microsoft makes Windows license concessions The new license terms are designed to ease restrictions on software makers who license Windows protocols to make their products work better with the operating system. Apr 22, 2003 Slow uptake for Windows Server 2003 Few corporate IT departments are expected to rush to adopt the long-delayed Windows Server 2003 operating system Microsoft will launch this week. Apr 21, 2003 Microsoft details compliance progress in antitrust case The company said in a filing that it has established an antitrust compliance committee, appointed a compliance officer, provided antitrust training for officers and established a Web site for third-party complaints. Apr 18, 2003 Microsoft settles Florida class-action suits The software company agreed to pay up to $202 million in vouchers, which can be used to buy a desktop, laptop or tablet computer from any manufacturer, running any operating system and software. Apr 16, 2003 Microsoft confirms Windows Server 2003 for Opteron Both AMD and Microsoft are set to launch their next-generation server products by the end of the month. Apr 9, 2003 Waiting for Longhorn The next Windows client, Longhorn, is in the offing. But what should you do until it gets here? Apr 7, 2003 At Deadline Short news items about late-breaking IT developments. Apr 7, 2003 Sun lawyer faces grilling at Java appeal One witness described Sun's portion of today's hearing in the antitrust case as more of a conversation between one of the judges and a Sun lawyer than a full legal presentation. Apr 3, 2003 Microsoft details Office 2003 lineup The company is adding several new application bundles to the Office 2003 suite due out in June, including a new Small Business edition. Apr 2, 2003			Give your computer a chance to show all of its potential with this new Tune XP collection of Windows XP tips and software, which will help you manage, secure, backup and tweak your system for good. This package will bulletproof your computer from many potential disasters and teach you more about your PC. Learn more Order TuneXP CD What's Hot Acronis DriveCleanser Acronis PartitionExpert 2003 Ashampoo WinOptimizer Suite Handy Backup iOpus Password Recovery XP SpyAgent SpyBuddy