There are updates to Microsoft Windows, and then there are updates. Microsoft recently started releasing the code for Windows XP Service Pack 2 (XPSP2). Why is this different? Typically, Microsoft will release minor patches and fixes for single issues in their software. These become important whenever a virus or worm attack flares up.

Once in a while, it's necessary to provide broader updates. A “version” upgrade is a significant event for software. Recent versions of Windows include, in reverse order, XP, 2000, ME, 98 and 95. Each version built on the other, and added new features and functionality.

Service packs fall between version revisions and patches. These tend to include some new features, but are focused on updating or fixing a broad range of existing software pieces. This latest release from Microsoft falls under this category.

Along comes XPSP2

The release of Windows XP SP2 will focus on security updates to keep users safer. In fact, the biggest addition will be the Windows Security Center, a monitor for the security trinity of firewall, software patches and virus protection. The Security Center will show you which defenses are up-to-date and running. The antivirus control will work with third-party software from vendors like Symantec and McAfee, where the updating and firewall portions will provide monitors for Microsoft functions.

XPSP2 will also include enhancements to Internet Explorer (IE). The Pop-Up Blocker will be a welcome addition to reduce spyware and annoying ads. The IE Information Bar will report on settings and alerts that IE provides. Finally, the IE download monitor will help protect you from malicious programs being loaded on your computer.

This service pack updates other portions of Windows, as well. Most notable among these will be updates to WiFi and Bluetooth wireless networking, which get tightened security options.

Updating Made Easy

This represents a major update, and Microsoft has every right to charge users for the new software. But, they will be giving XPSP2 away to current XP users. In fact, Microsoft estimates that they will update 100 million PCs over the next two months.

If you've been following this column over the last year or so, you're probably set to receive your XPSP2. I’m a strong proponent of Windows' built-in Automatic Update feature, and this will cue up your update when Microsoft starts distributing the software.

If you need to make sure you're ready for XPSP2, go to Start/Control Panel, then open the Automatic Update control panel by double clicking. For the easiest updating, choose Automatic. You can choose some of the other options, but going fully automatic allows Windows to update itself when your computer is sitting idle. It’s a good idea to leave your computer on overnight several times to let the Automatic Update kick in.

The update says it will be between 75 and 266 megabytes in size. Dial-up users and impatient broadband customers will want to order a CD from Microsoft, once it becomes available. There’s no link for it now, but it looks like it will be on their Windows XP Web site (www.microsoft.com/windowsxp) under Downloads/Software Updates.

OK, so there are probably a couple skeptics out there, wondering why they should update. It comes down to this: virus writers and hackers attack Microsoft software after any updates. The bigger the update, the bigger the attacks. This is a big update. They don't attack the updated software; they go after the holes in previous versions that an update fixes. It used to take them about three months to poke holes in software. Now, it takes them about one month.

From where I sit, that will give us about 30 days to get XPSP2 installed.