Flash-MX: News

Saw this over on The Tech Report web site this evening.

It would appear that Microsoft has made the Windows XP SP2 network installation available on its web site. You can grab the 266MB download here.

I haven't tried installing it yet, so basically try at your own risk (of course). I suggest not installing it on any mission critical computers as sometimes these things can cause more problems than they're worth. In fact, I didn't even spot this on the Windows Update site yet.

You can read the 8 page manifesto of changes here: Changes to Functionality in Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2

Or, for those of you running Wi-Fi, you probably want to stop by and read these articles: Wireless LAN Enhancements in Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Wireless Resources for Windows XP

Perhaps these:

• Top 10 Reasons to Install
  From Pop-up Blocker to Windows Firewall, learn about the hot list of reasons to install Windows XP SP2.


• Feature List
  Learn about the key features included in Service Pack 2, and how each works to help you proactively improve the protection of your PC and personal information.


• Quick Overview
  Get a brief overview of the new security technologies in Windows XP Service Pack 2.


• Technologies Overview
  Get a detailed overview of the new security technologies in Windows XP Service Pack 2.


• What's New for Internet Explorer and Outlook Express
  Learn about how the enhanced security features in Windows XP SP2, including improvements for Internet Explorer and Outlook Express, help users like you take a proactive approach to protecting your computer, information, and privacy while you browse or use e-mail.


• What's New on Windows Update
  When you install Windows XP SP2, you may be asked to upgrade to the latest version of Windows Update. Here's why.

And finally, everybody will want to quickly scope out the Windows XP Service Pack 2 homepage.

I think the one I'm personally most concerned about will be the pop-up blocker.

Internet Explorer Pop-up Blocker - Makes browsing the Internet more enjoyable by enabling you to reduce unwanted ads and content.

This could potentially break hundreds of billions of sites out there, but then again, maybe it will be the same as having the Google toolbar installed. I guess only one way to find out.

As for the Flash/Gadget crowd, I guess the following two also rank pretty high as well:

Improved wireless support - Dramatically improves and simplifies the process of discovering and connecting to wireless networks.

Bluetooth technologies - Enables you to easily connect to the latest Bluetooth-enabled hardware devices such as keyboards, cell phones, and PDAs.

Posted by peter on August 10, 2004 at 02:48 AM