Microsoft delays SP2 auto update

Microsoft delays SP2 auto update
Published: August 17, 2004, 5:32 AM PDT
By Mike Ricciuti
Staff Writer, CNET News.com


Microsoft is delaying distribution of Windows XP Service
Pack 2 via its Automatic Update service by at least nine
days in order to give corporate customers more time to
temporarily block automatic downloading of SP2 by their
employees.

The software maker notified customers of the decision via
e-mail on Monday, when it had planned to make SP2
available via automatic distribution. Microsoft said many
big companies aren't ready to make the move and need more
time to put in place tools to block automatic updates to
SP2 until they can fully test their internal
applications.

SP2 now won't be available on Automatic Update until Aug.
25 at the earliest, according to the e-mail, which was
posted to a number of enthusiast Web sites, including one
run by Steven Bink, a software developer based in
Amsterdam.

Microsoft representatives were not immediately available
for comment.


Microsoft released Service Pack 2 to PC manufacturers on
Aug. 6 after a number of delays.

Along with various bug fixes, SP2 adds a new "security
center" that is intended to provide a beefed-up firewall
as well as easy ways to tell whether a PC is updated and
protected against viruses. In addition, SP2 includes a
pop-up blocker in the Internet Explorer browser and
updated support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless
technologies.

Compatibility with older applications is a major concern
for corporate users. Microsoft on Monday published a list
of nearly 50 software applications and games that may
encounter problems with SP2. A range of applications are
listed in the Microsoft report, including several of the
software maker's own products, along with antivirus
tools, Web server software and a handful of games.

The auto update delay is unlikely to be a problem for
customers. Many companies appear to be in no hurry to
install the update. IBM told employees last week to hold
off installing SP2 until Big Blue can fully test and
customize it. The company's technology department said
the delay is "due to known application problems and
incompatibility with IBM workstation applications."