[Ham-Computers] Word of caution: WinXP Service Pack 2

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

A word of caution to all Ham-Computers list users.

If you're using any version of Windows XP, I *strongly* suggest that you
disable Window's "Automatic Update" functionality ASAP.

Service Pack 2 (SP2) for WinXP will be added to the automatic updates pool
somtime after August 25th (2004).  This service pack is a *MAJOR* update to
Windows XP and adds many new features and plugs many security holes.  Some
are saying it's closer to a WinXP "Second Edition" than it is a service
pack.  Unfortunately, due to all of the new security features, SP2 will
"break" many working applications.  These apps (or WinXP) will need to be
tweaked or updated to work properly after installing SP2.  Many of these
apps are network related or use network connections and the problem stems
from the new "Windows Firewall" functionality in SP2.

There are a couple way to limit or disable the automatic update on a WinXP
system.  "Right-click" on "My Computer" (either in the "Start Menu" or the
"Desktop", depending on your WinXP theme) and select "Properties".  The
resulting dialogue box should have several "tabs" and one should be labeled
"Automatic Updates".  Under the "Automatic Updates" tab, there should be a
checkbox labeled "Keep my computer up to date...".  Uncheck this box to
disable automatic updates.  If you wish to be kept informed of automatic
updates, then leave this box checked - but then select the "Notify me before
downloading..." option.  This will ensure that you have full control over
what updates are installed on your system.

Microsoft is taking a very agressive stance with SP2.  It *will* fix many of
the security flaws in WinXP, but beta testers found it also introduces some
new security risks.  Save yourself some early headaches and install SP2 at a
later time when *you're* ready to handle the potential problems and
solutions are readily available.

More information on WinXP SP2 can be found on Microsoft's website and at
various "industry-related" magazine websites (such as eWeek, InfoWorld,
CNet, ZDNet, etc.).

Just some advice from a fellow HAM.

73,

  - Aaron Hsu, NN6O
    (nn6o)@arrl.net
    (athsu)@unistudios.com
    No-QRO Int'l #1,000,006