p2pnet news | Music:- Vistula? Forget it.

If you must use a Microsoft product, and hundreds of millions of people around the world must, if only because that’s what they get (like it or not) when they buy a computer, XP is the way to go.

And now, for once, Bill and the Boyz have managed to release something on schedule —- Windows XP Service Pack 3.

It includes all previously released updates for the operating system, as well as a small number of new functionalities, “which do not significantly change customers’ experience with the operating system,” says Microsoft.

“Far from being a new operating system, Windows XP SP3 is really an accumulation of updates for compatibility, security, and performance,” says PC Magazine, going on >>>

It doesn’t contain new features found in Vista, aside from Network Access Protection (NAP), which lets XP systems work with Windows Server 2008’s ability to enforce system health requirements before allowing access to network assets.

In addition to that feature, the only actually new ones are “Black Hole” Router Detection, more description in the Security Options control panel, kernel-level support for FIPS 140-1 Level 1 compliant cryptography, and a new Product Activation system that allows installation without immediately requiring a product key.”

Windows XP gained a reprieve late last year when Microsoft extended its availability date to June 30, 2008, “after customers complained they were not willing or ready to migrate to Vista,” says InfoWorld, adding:

“The software, which was the XP SP2 version that included security improvements, originally had been slated to be taken out of OEM and retail channels on Jan. 30.”

User wishes notwithstanding, Microsoft says is not planning on extending the Windows XP deadline the game, stating June 30 remains the cutoff date.

However, InfoWorld is running a petition in to keep Windows XP available indefinitely, rather than force users to upgrade to Windows Vistula.

Slashdot it! Stumble It!

PC Magazine – Windows XP SP3: Hands-On Preview
InfoWorld – Microsoft says XP SP3 complete, available imminently, April 21, 2008
force users to upgrade – XP, Yes – Vista, NO WAY !!!!!, April 14, 2008

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2008 at 5:56 am and is filed under Product News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

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