Apple brushes up Panther OS

Apple Computer on Monday posted an update to its Macintosh OS X operating system, also known as Panther. Version 10.3.3, available from Apple's Web site, fixes a number of problems and adds new features for networking. These include preventing the lost connections that could occur with some network devices and avoiding name conflicts among network services. The update now waits for .Mac authorization before automatically trying to synch up files when the computer logs onto a wireless network, and shows network volumes in the Finder sidebar and desktop.

Apple also issued an revamp of its OS X server. Changes include an overhaul of the operating system's QuickTime Streaming Server that improves compatibility with 3G cell phones, according to the company.