Microsoft has made changes to the latest test version of Windows Defender, an always-on spyware detection tool that will be part of its Vista update. The new Beta 2 includes the ability to display the program icon in the taskbar; improvements in data collection from its SpyNet spyware-reporting network; and revisions to how signature updates are tracked. These changes, posted last week, should help detect new threats better, the software maker said.
Windows Defender, a follow-on to Windows AntiSpyware, is available for download in the Beta 2 version. It is expected to go through a series of revamps before its release with the Vista operating system update, set to arrive in January 2007. In addition to fighting spyware, the tool will be designed to combat rootkits, keystroke loggers and other malicious software, Microsoft has said. Defender and SpyNet are both based on technologies acquired in the purchase of Giant Software.
Given Microsoft's poor security track record I'd be nervous of relying on their built in "defender". Windows users will probably end up having to patch defender as often as IE.
Given Microsoft's poor security track record I'd be nervous of relying on their built in "defender". Windows users will probably end up having to patch defender as often as IE.
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Creating a tiny version of a coaxial cable, researchers at the University of California at San Diego create smallest laser to date, an advance that could lead to optical computer chips or high-resolution displays.
Designer combines superheroes and supervillains with the internationally known symbols for men's and women's rooms to create absurd mathematical equations that he puts on T-shirts.
SolarReserve hits a milestone on a 110-megawatt solar power plant that will have between 10 and 15 hours of energy storage in tanks of molten salt for supplying Nevada.
