Review: Windows XP's big security fix
Posted by NEXTY on 10 February 2004 - 15:07 · 8 comments & 1035 views
If you've been longing for a more secure version of Windows, Windows XP Service Pack 2, due midyear, should fit the bill. A response to the electronic attacks that crippled Windows PCs worldwide last year, Windows XP SP2 is a crucial upgrade centered on what Microsoft Corp. calls security technologies.

I tested a beta of XP SP2 and came away impressed: With a simple installation (I experienced none of the compatibility hassles that some users encountered with SP1), much-needed security enhancements, and a friendlier front end to wireless networking, XP SP2 is shaping up as a must-have upgrade for all Windows XP users. SP2 will be free, but Microsoft hasn't yet said how it will distribute the pack.

View: The full review by Paul T
News source: Computerworld

Thanks to configure for his watery help in this article.


There are 8 additional comments
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Quote this comment Reply to this comment #1 Posted by vetmalebolgia on 10 Feb 2004 - 15:16
Can't wait
Quote this comment Reply to this comment #2 Posted by dreamthief on 10 Feb 2004 - 15:33
I can't wait either... hope Microsoft disables all those darn services nobody uses
(2 replies) Quote this comment Reply to this comment #3 Posted by deadmonkey on 10 Feb 2004 - 16:47
I am looking forward to SP2 I would rather wait a little longer and it be really good but I also wish I had it now

I am just interested in this new "friendlier front end to wireless networking" as well as the new firewall options.
Quote this comment #3.1 Posted by g33kb0y on 10 Feb 2004 - 17:34
I can't wait for the new wireless front end. It's such a hassle to configure wireless if you're using a PEAP or 802.1x implementation. Step after step after step of opening dialogs. Pain in my arse.

I haven't had an opportunity to look what changes are being made with the firewall. Anyone have any insight?
Quote this comment #3.2 Posted by Octol on 11 Feb 2004 - 04:01
QUOTE
I haven't had an opportunity to look what changes are being made with the firewall. Anyone have any insight?


It allows you some configuration options rather than just having an On or Off state as it is now.
(2 replies) Quote this comment Reply to this comment #4 Posted by 1337h4x0r on 10 Feb 2004 - 16:58
whats this? windows is insecure?
Quote this comment #4.1 Posted by markjensen on 10 Feb 2004 - 18:31
QUOTE (#4.0)
whats this? windows is insecure?

It's not that Windows in inherently insecure, becuase it really isn't any more. Microsoft has made HUGE improvements in the standard security and stability of Windows.

Right now, Linux and Windows are close to the same level of security. The biggest problem Windows has yet to face is their tight integration of IE and OE into the OS multiplies the risks on systems that use those programs.

As a Linux user, I have to admit that (for the most part) Microsoft has put their money (literally) where their mouth is on the security issue.

Remember, Security is a process, not a product.
Quote this comment #4.2 Posted by 1337h4x0r on 10 Feb 2004 - 21:55
QUOTE (#4.1)
Right now, Linux and Windows are close to the same level of security.

i think the lesson here is that you shouldnt eat corn when you laugh really hard because if it comes out your nose it will hurt.
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