October 2004
Volume 8, Issue 1
Inside this Issue...
Social Science Computing Laboratory
Faculty of Social Science
Room 1228, Social Science Centre
The University of Western Ontario
London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 5C2
E-mail ssts@uwo.ca
Web: www.ssc.uwo.ca/ssnds
Phone: 519 661-2152
Managing Editor: Mary Van de Ven
SSC Network Update
Windows XP Service Pack 2
Les Flodrowski
Service Pack 2 (SP2), a major update to Windows XP, is now available for installation on the SSC Network. According to Microsoft, SP2 focuses primarily on improving security and defending your computer from viruses, worms and malicious software spread via the Internet.
Be aware that SP2 will cause some noticeable changes on your system and there have been a number of problems reported by some users after installing SP2. These problems are often driver or software related and we feel that the benefits of this update will outweigh the potential problems. We also recommend that you install Office XP Service Pack 3 and backup all your personal data on the C: drive before installing SP2.
Also, it is recommended that you clean your computer of adware and spyware prior to installing Windows XP SP2.
Microsoft provides the top 10 reasons to install SP2. The most important reasons for SSC Network users to install SP2 on their computers include activation of the Windows Firewall, Internet Explorer enhancements and the new Windows Security Center.
Windows Firewall
The Windows Firewall acts as a protective boundary that helps defend your computer against unauthorized or malicious access through the network. Since it is automatically activated, two common services that might be affected after installing SP2 are Remote Desktop, and File and Printer Sharing. If you use either of these features, or have problems with other communications software, invoke the Windows Firewall settings (Start > Control Panel > Windows Firewall) and set the appropriate checkboxes on the Exceptions tab.
Internet Explorer Enhancements
Internet Explorer (IE) now includes a Pop-Up Blocker that blocks annoying pop-up windows generated by adware on the Internet. Also, the addition of an Information Bar located under the IE toolbar will appear to warn you about a potentially harmful download and give you the option to block it.
Windows Security Center
The Security Center lets you check the status of your computer’s security settings including the status of your Windows Firewall, Internet Options and Automatic Updates. Note that automatic updates are now configured for you via the SSC Network and will appear greyed out.
Installing SP2
Unlike other critical updates and security fixes which are now installed automatically, you must install SP2 from Add-Remove Programs. The installation process will take between 45 minutes to an hour to complete. In case a problem occurs, the update should only be applied during quieter times when use of your computer is not essential.
To install SP2, click the following: Start > All Programs > SSC Network > Add-Remove Programs > Add New Programs > Windows XP Service Pack 2.
Obtaining Assistance
If you require assistance installing SP2 for Windows XP, or have any questions, please call Ali Hammoud at extension 83597. Microsoft provides a wealth of information about this update.