Windows XP SP2 - Beta

Windows Service Packs (SPs) usually provide a list of bug fixes. With SP2, though, Microsoft has also overhauled the security settings. We've looked at the Beta Release Candidate 1 (RC1) to see what these features do.

After a lengthy installation period and the obligatory reboot the first noticeable change is a big friendly looking wizard asking if you want to turn on automatic updates. For advanced users it may be overkill, but by forcing the issue it should help cut down the number of people affected by viruses that have been in the wild for a long time.

Get beyond this and the Windows Firewall has had a major overhaul. The original Windows XP version was basic, to say the least, and turned off by default. The new version is automatically turned on and can now track and block individual applications.

It's not as accomplished or as easy to use as its competition, but it's a lot better than the previous incarnation. After a fresh install of Windows and SP2, it will at least mean that your PC is protected while you go online to download drivers and the like.

On the Control Panel is the Windows Security Center, with shortcuts to Internet Options, Firewall, System Properties and Microsoft's security update website. Aside from the website, the options are more useful for beginners. And Internet Explorer finally has a pop-up blocker.

It's good to see Microsoft tackle Internet security more seriously. We'll be covering this interesting release in detail when it's launched in June or July.

Contact: Microsoft
www.microsoft.com/uk

System requirements:
Windows XP

Price:
Free