Microsoft has again delayed a long-awaited update to Windows XP, citing quality concerns.
The company had planned to wrap up development this week on Windows XP Service Pack 2, but a Microsoft representative said late Wednesday that the software giant had decided that more work was needed on the update before if could be released to manufacturing.
Microsoft has been forced to push back the update's release on several occasions, most recently moving the release date from July to August. Windows XP Service Pack 2, or SP2, was originally set for release in June. However, Microsoft still expects to release the update this month, the representative said.
SP2 will contain a number of new features, most of which deal with security. One new feature, for example, is a Security Center that provides a view of a PC's key protection settings. An improved firewall and other tweaks are also planned.
Among the challenges Microsoft faces is maintaining compatibility with existing software while boosting the reliability of the core operating system.
Earlier this week, Microsoft issued a warning that the newest version of its software for managing customer relations will not work with SP2. Customers using Microsoft Business Solutions CRM Sales for Outlook 1.2 will encounter problems with the software if they install the SP2, the company said.
Microsoft has posted a patch to its Web site that it says will fix the problem.
I'd rather have SP 2 late and working well than have it wrong. They really need to make sure they do it right otherwise it will cause more harm than good to not only people who use the OS but also to their reputation.
Life goes on. Microsoft could be delayed for another month. From what I'm reading, there isn't that much demand anyway. Companies are being real careful and everyone will want to see if this SP2 screws up someone elses system or network first. It's like XP fear. They claim it's the most secure OS ever and then the cracks appear, the patching starts and the whole cycle of uncertainty creates more uncertainty which will be fixed with a service pack after downloading 200 patches and bug fixes.
This really doesn't suprise me. It's a wonder it'll even come out this year. Microsoft is obviously not putting enough effort and MONEY into this project. If Linspire wasn't so unpopular, and Macintosh such a closed system I would kiss Windows GOODBYE!
The long waited XP SP2 should be a little(!) late but when I first heard of SP2 RC I ust installed it(what a pitty)..then I saw somthin is going wrong. (surprise? nooo..) I re install XP with SP1 and now eberythings fine with Symantec..no need to upgrade to a security center..so next month is acceptable..but..this is microsoft and they just dont wanna step on ..it again on this security issue. this security thing is hard to fight. needs everyday updating.and MS has only one chance to release this package..they want it to be perfect(even if its impossible)(in terms of security)
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Microsoft says more work on Service Pack 2 needed
-PD