Microsoft relents on XP downgrade
Windows OS of choice in your organization
Paul Mah: "CNET Networks' News.com reports that Microsoft has softened its stance and has been quietly allowing PC makers to furnish a 'downgrade' to Windows XP for customers who request it. ... Personally, I have
specified Windows XP for the 10-15 new PCs that my company has purchased this year." How would
the "final" cessation of Windows XP sales next year affect you?
Is it Finally Time for Desktop Linux?
The number of desktop Linux users has more than doubled in the last year, and Ubuntu remains their Linux distribution of choice, according to a DesktopLinux.com survey.
READ MORE >>
Spam Spreads Storm Trojan
Microsoft Preps Next BI Release
IBM Upstages Microsoft at VoiceCon
Microsoft Preps Next BI Release
Dell Keeps Linux Penguins Marching On
eWEEK's Guide to Green IT, Part 2
File systems 101: NTFS
In my previous article on FAT file systems, I went over the details of the ubiquitous FAT file system. In this article, I'll delve into Microsoft's other--and better utilized--file system, NTFS. Remember, I'm not going to delve so deeply into the concepts that your eyes
glaze over! If you're a file system programmer, this article series is not for you.
Palm risks defections
Reading the life-line of the Palm
Sexy new mobile applications, like Google Maps for Mobile, are debuting on operating systems other than Palm's, which lacks built-in support for multimedia apps and hasn't been updated in quite some time. The Palm OS
still enjoys a loyal following, but it'll have to get up to speed sooner rather than later--or risk an exodus to competing platforms such as Windows Mobile and Symbian.
Do you think the Palm OS is losing its mojo with software developers?
Rootcast: Is Windows Vista worth the wait?
Microsoft's highly anticipated and greatly hyped OS is not scheduled to ship to consumers until January 2007, but our very own Jason Hiner, content manager here at TechRepublic, got a sneak peak at Vista. During this
19-minute podcast Jason answers Vista questions from several TechRepublic members.
Blog: The obnoxious co-worker--is it you?
We all know an employee who gets on our last nerve. But what if you're that person to someone else?
Download: Determine your own destiny by using Google Sitemaps to drive
traffic to your site
Google Sitemaps endeavors to improve how Google's Web crawlers discover new content on your site to make it more quickly available in Google searches.
Disable Office clipboard dialog box or task pane with this registry hack
If you don't regularly use the Office Clipboard, you can disable the Office Clipboard dialog box or task pane
with the Windows registry hack outlined in this WMV video.
Get more information on Desktops, Laptops, & OS
Microsoft creates public bug database for IE
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
For the first time ever, Microsoft is encouraging people to give public feedback on Internet Explorer with the creation of a bug database for the next version of its browser, the IE 7 beta. The bug database is
accessible from the Microsoft Connect site by anyone who has a Microsoft Passport account. Will you utilize this public
bug database?
Related resources
Will the government eventually
Microsoft to launch Office Live beta
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
Tomorrow, Microsoft plans to kick off the test version of Office Live, a collection of Web hosting and business applications for small companies. With Office Live, Microsoft is offering e-mail, Web domains, Web site
hosting, and other services for free during the beta. More than 100,000 businesses have signed up for the test, and additional companies can sign up on Microsoft's site.
Is your organization interested in the Office Live beta?
Related resources
 Last month, the European Parliament passed far-reaching legislation concerning data retention, which
will require telecommunications companies to store vast amounts of data about customer activities. While proponents of these directives argue that it will help law enforcement find and capture terrorists and other
criminals more easily, Jonathan Yarden isn't convinced. He says the only thing this legislation will accomplish will be increased costs for companies and consumers.
Don't miss these related IT resources:
AMD Launches Low-Power Chips on Eve of Intel's Forum
Intel's developer forum is all ready to launch Tuesday, with
the huge chip maker readying details on its latest low-power
architecture. But hoping to gain a beat on its rival, AMD
announced two low-power chips on Monday, along with design
wins in at least two notebooks. We'll be tracking IDF all
week -- our detailed preview explains what's on the docket.
And for details on how AMD's trying to rain on the parade --
and which vendor will be selling the new Turion-equipped
notebook -- check out our report.
Chips and Power at IDF Fall:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-515-1-278-788070-25004-0-0-0-1
AMD Ships Low-Power Chips:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-515-1-278-788070-25007-0-0-0-1
Longhorn's new name: Windows Vista
 It's official. Microsoft's Windows Vista (the operating system formerly known as Longhorn) is slated for a beta release on Aug. 3, 2005.
This test release will be targeted at developers and IT pros. So, let's hear it: What are your thoughts on Longhorn's new
name?
Additional resources on Windows Vista
So what's the next version of Windows going to be called? Not Windows 08, or YQ. Nope, instead it's Vista. Windows
Vista?! Sounds like AMC Pacer to me. What's this all about? Our news story has details on the naming, and for some
perspective, check out Jason Cross' opinion: He thinks we should throw Vista right out the Window. And of course John C. Dvorak weighed in with his own thoughts -- along the line of "Hasta La Vista, Baby."
News: Microsoft Urges Developers to Prepare for IE 7
As Microsoft inches closer to the first beta release of Internet Explorer 7, the company's development advisors have been advising Web site developers and managers to run certain tests now to prevent problems when the
beta version does appear. Find out what developers had to say in response.
Advances in Web Browsers
News: Microsoft Investigates New XP SP2 Flaw
Microsoft has acknowledged that it is working on a patch for a potentially serious security hole in fully patched versions of Windows XP Service Pack 2.
Learn more about this new vulnerability.
Securing Windows
News: Microsoft Makes Longhorn Performance Promises
Until the worldwide partner conference in Minneapolis in mid-July, company officials had not quantified the benefits that Longhorn would deliver.
Here's a preview.
Microsoft's Longhorn
IE pop-up spoof won't get patch
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Internet Explorer is open to a spoofing attack where a pop-up window appears and tries to trick users into giving out personal information to hackers. According to Microsoft, overlaying windows in a browser is
standard functionality, not a vulnerability, and so there are no plans for an update. However, Firefox and Opera are making moves to combat this kind of attack.
Does anyone else see anything wrong with this picture?
Related resources
Download: 12 steps to take to avoid phishing scams
 Phishing scams have evolved from being a simple annoyance to a dangerous problem for IT departments as business users expose sensitive data
when being duped by phishing scams while using corporate computer systems. Here are 12 steps that can help significantly reduce the risk of phishing scams, along with examples of both e-mail and Web browser phishing
attacks.
Keeping your antivirus software up to date is a no brainer. But do you know why your users should never enter sensitive information in a pop-up window? Download
12 steps to take to avoid phishing scams and then
join the discussion.
Get more information on Desktops
Take advantage of the following desktops and software resources, and stay up to date on the information you need to know by bookmarking
TechRepublic's Desktops, Laptops & OS Topic Center.
Should computer games be censored?
 Featured Discussion: Games that incite violence
TechRepublic member SlapShot has a legal liability question: "Certain types of games that incite violence and immorality are rife and readily available. Do programmers or their project managers (or anyone in the
publishing chain)...need to be regulated and accept consequences of their products (much like manufacturers of other consumer items such as cars) or would their right of freedom of speech and my right to be
offended/injured be infringed?"
>>Keep your finger on the pulse of TechRepublic's most active discussion topics by checking out our Top 20 Hot Discussions.
Protect your business data with backup and recovery solutions
This white paper edition discusses backup solutions and the importance of safeguarding your business information with comprehensive backup and recovery plans.
 Achieving Advanced Data Protection
As your business grows, so grows your data storage and protection needs. Whether your requirements are for direct backups, network backups, or SAN backups, the HP StorageWorks Enterprise Backup Solution (EBS) will
scale to meet your needs. Download this white paper from HP to learn more about EBS and how it can help your IT organization
shrink backup windows and reduce management costs.
What is Your Data Worth? The Importance of Comprehensive Data Protection
The fact is 7 out of 10 users are not backing up. So, there are basically two types of users, those that have lost data and those that will. Knowing how critical your business information is, would you chance making a
financial decision on your most critical data? What is your data worth? In this Webcast from Connected, industry experts and Connected customers speak out about the importance of
comprehensive data protection.
=========================================================
AMD Spanks Intel's Dual-Core CPU
Look out Intel: Here comes AMD. The scrappy chip company has
just released its answer to the Pentium D's dual core, and
wow is this chip hot. I mean that not in the Celsius sense
-- although it's no slouch in the toasty sector. Over at
ExtremeTech, they liked it so much they called it "The Best
Desktop Processor Yet." What an endorsement! Read their
review to find out why the chip really is that good. Plus
details on how AMD picked up market share against Intel in
the last quarter.
AMD Delivers Strong Dual Core:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-447-1-278-788070-21229-0-0-0-1
AMD Gains Share:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-447-1-278-788070-21232-0-0-0-1
Firefox Web Browser Under Attack
Major security flaws just uncovered in the popular Firefox
browser have its creators rushing to fill the gaps. The
vulnerabilities are called "extremely critical" and were
leaked to the Web a few days ago. Ouch. For detail on what
the problem entails, and where to find the patches, check
out our story. Firefox may be good, but it's not perfect!
Firefox Problems Patched:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-447-1-278-788070-21235-0-0-0-1
Just In -- Latest Longhorn Beta Preview
When our reporters showed up at Microsoft's annual WinHEC
(Windows Hardware Engineering Conference), there was a
surprise in the goodie bag -- a brand-new copy of Longhorn.
We quickly put it to the test, and ended up with a
fascinating look at Longhorn's progress. There's a lot
that's complete, and a lot to like in this new build. Want
to see what the "Windows for the next ten years" looks like?
Don't miss our preview and slideshow!
Inside Latest Longhorn Beta:
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1789345,00.asp
64-Bit Windows Too
Longhorn is still for tomorrow. For today, Microsoft has
finally released the long-awaited 64-bit version of Windows.
It's a momentous occasion, because the transition to 64 bits
is just as important as the move to Longhorn. We've got
complete details on the new operating system in our
extensive review and special report. If you use Windows, you
need to read this.
64-Bit Windows Reviewed:
http://ct.eletters.whatsnewnow.com/rd/cts?d=181-442-1-278-788070-20781-0-0-0-1
Create a slipstream CD to integrate SP2 into Windows XP install disk
 One common annoyance that
administrators face is that performing a clean install of an operating system often involves also reinstalling the latest service pack. For those wanting to install or reinstall Windows XP with Service Pack 2
included, this task sheet provides a quick solution for making a slipstream CD that integrates SP2 with the Windows XP installation disk.
Download this resource today!
Get more information on Network Administration
Take advantage of the following network administration resources, and stay up to date on the information you need to know by bookmarking
TechRepublic's Servers/Networking page.
Tech vigilantism: Escalating the spyware war
 Featured Discussion: Is anyone else tired of spyware?
TechRepublic member jereg is proposing a guerilla solution for spyware: "Many of these hijack programs direct browsers to specific web sites. Also, popup ads that install themselves on the hard drive target
specific sites and/or products. So I'm thinking, why not bill them? If I spend 2 hours cleaning a PC, I should send them a bill for, oh, $50 an hour, or $100 for my time?...By myself, I won't be able to make much of a
dent. However, if we could get hundreds or thousands of techs, and maybe consumers, or businesses submitting bills to these firms, could it impact their slimy business?"
Do you think such creative solutions could make a difference--or do you just keep playing defense?
AMD jockeys with Intel in multi-OS race
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
Advanced Micro Devices will detail its "Pacifica" virtualization technology by the end of March. The Pacifica technology, which makes it easier for a computer to run several operating systems simultaneously, is scheduled
to arrive in processors in 2006. It's still unclear whether Pacifica and the comparable Vanderpool Technology--now officially called Intel Virtualization Technology--will be compatible.
Share your thoughts on virtualization and, specifically, ADM's multi-OS plan.
News: High-Risk RealPlayer Flaws Patched
RealNetworks on Wednesday rolled out new versions of its flagship RealPlayer software to zap a pair of potentially dangerous security bugs.
Have you patched yours yet?
Internet Security
News: Slower Firefox Growth Still Hurts IE
While Mozilla Firefox has slowed its growth pace, the open-source browser still is making enough inroads to knock Microsoft's Internet Explorer below 90 percent user share for the first time in three years.
Check it out.
Browser Security
Opinion: ICANN Still Steal Your Domain
Now that we know more about what happened in the theft of the Panix.com domain, there's no cause for relaxation. You can all be alarmed now.
Security Editor Larry Seltzer sheds some light on domain theft.
Microsoft to fix "download warning" flaw
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft says it will take "appropriate action" to fix a problem in Internet Explorer and Windows XP SP2 that allows a malicious Web site to bypass the browser's warnings when downloading potentially harmful content. A
Microsoft representative said the problem was not a security vulnerability but actually a clever use of social engineering. Discuss Microsoft's response
to this problem. (On the go? Print this story.)
Related resources
Ninety days later, are you ready for WinXP SP2?
Featured discussion: Is your company skittish about XP SP2?
Ninety days after its release, the Windows XP Service Pack 2 debate still rages. TechRepublic member frnt9 has taken the plunge: "I like many of you were skittish upon the release of SP2. Let's face it:
Microsoft's track record of top notch patches hasn't been that great. I decided to wait awhile before releasing it to my staff. I installed it on the office desktops about 3 weeks ago. While some of the bells &
whistles are useless, the one thing that I hear the most positive feedback on is the built in pop-up protector. I know it's inevitable that something will go wrong in the near future, so hopefully it won't be today."
On the opposite side, member zaferus is still playing it safe: "As a medium sized company, we have a lot of offices, hundreds of systems, and several specialized applications. Testing SP2 is a big project.
While our apps are vendor supported (fortunately), very few say they will support SP2. I know Microsoft is big on everyone upgrading and just 'going for it', but it's not that simple. And how many businesses can
afford to just cross their fingers on this?" What is your take on Windows XP SP2: overdue or still too soon? Share your thoughts in this discussion.
No mutiny from Microsoft's bounty
TODAY'S TOP STORY
In the year since Microsoft placed $1 million in bounties on the heads of high profile virus writers, malicious code attacks have swelled to record levels, leading many industry experts to declare that the software
giant's Anti-Virus Reward Program (AVRP) has been a failure. Microsoft counters these criticisms by pointing to the arrest of the Sasser worm author, which was made possible through information gained from an AVRP
bounty, suggesting that virus bounties can work, and will.
Do you think Microsoft's AVRP is money well spent, or a waste of budget that could be used to make the company's products more secure? Share your
thoughts in this discussion.
Security Alert: Microsoft details new flaws
Name: Microsoft security advisories
Risk: Microsoft rates 7 issues as critical
Impact of vulnerability: Most could allow remote code execution
Whois at risk: Windows users and Excel for Mac users
Security brief
The Microsoft Windows security updates for October 2004 address newly discovered critical issues in Windows, including Internet Explorer. Related
software updates are available from Microsoft if you are running any of the software programs listed. The list includes more than 20 affected programs, including Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Server 2003, and
Windows NT Server. Excel for Mac users are also vulnerable.
For more details, read security expert John McCormick's article, "Microsoft unveils a flurry of critical security alerts for Windows."
Get additional resources on Microsoft products
News: Microsoft Issues Flurry of Fixes on Busy Patch Day
A "cumulative security update" plugs eight holes in the Internet Explorer browser, while other patches address "critical" vulnerabilities in the Windows shell, in SMTP and elsewhere.
Get the details on these patches here.
Keeping Pace with Microsoft's Patches
News: AOL Readying Stand-Alone Browser
As the hubbub of alternative Web browsers keeps growing — from speculation over a so-called "Gbrowser" from search-engine leader Google to the many advances in the open-source Mozilla project — in the background,
America Online has been quietly testing its own Web browser, dubbed "AOL Browser," for more than a month. Get the details here.
Advances in Web Browsers
News: Jury Rules for Kodak in Java Patent Dispute
Eastman Kodak won the first round of a Java lawsuit against Sun that could impact Sun's bottom line and possibly threaten Microsoft's .Net platform.
Get the details on this developing story.
Java Futures
News: Microsoft Sets New Deadline for SP2 Automatic Rollout
Procrastinating admins now have a new deadline to download Windows XP SP2 before it's automatically downloaded for them.
Mary Jo Foley of Microsoft Watch has the story.
Windows XP Service Pack 2
News: IT Admins Not 'Trusting' SP2 Security
IT administrators and security experts who have had a chance to install, work with and investigate the changes in Windows XP Service Pack 2 are lambasting the update for introducing new vulnerabilities.
Read up on what they've found so far.
XP Evolution
Microsoft delays SP2 auto update
TODAY'S TOP STORY
In an e-mail to customers, Microsoft announced Monday that it will delay the distribution of Windows XP Service Pack 2 through its Automatic Update service for more than a week. The software giant is postponing
SP2 to allow organizations more time to temporarily block the automatic download. Tell us what you think about Microsoft's decision to wait to
distribute the SP2 auto update. (On the go? Print this news story.)
Related resources
News: Microsoft Lists Apps Affected by XP SP2
In an effort to head off support calls, Microsoft has published a list of about 50 programs from both the Redmond software giant and third-party software vendors that require tweaking in order to work properly
with Windows XP Service Pack 2.
Mary Jo Foley of Microsoft Watch gives you the full story.
XP Evolution.
Security Alert: XP Service Pack 2 released
Some are calling Windows XP Service Pack 2 a Security Pack because of the vulnerabilities addressed in SP2, which was released to developers and IT pros this week.
But not everyone is rushing to install the update. IBM, in fact, issued a memo telling employees to hold off on installing SP2 until Big Blue has fully tested and customized
the release.
According to Microsoft, more than 200 million PCs are now running XP. If some of those PCs are in your shop, the content in our
Service Pack 2 Resource Center will help you decide when to install SP2 and guide you through the pros and cons of the decision.
Installation
After delays, Windows security update ready to go
TODAY'S TOP STORY
After a series of setbacks, Microsoft announced Friday that it has released the long-awaited Windows XP Service Pack 2 to manufacturing. The software giant expects that approximately 100 million PCs will automatically
upgrade the update in the next two months. Those who want to download the update manually should be to do so by the end of the month. Share your
thoughts on XP SP2 in the article discussion. (On the go? Print this news story.)
Windows XP update delayed again
TODAY'S TOP STORY
For the third time, Microsoft announced Wednesday that it will once again postpone the release of the long-awaited Windows XP Service Pack 2, which it originally planned to release in June. A Microsoft representative
said the software giant still plans to release the update sometime this month. Let us know what you think about Microsoft's announcement. (On the
go? Print this news story.)
Related resources
News: MyDoom Sneaks Into Microsoft.com's Back Door
A new piece of code found by security analysts in MyDoom.0 has been using the back door installed by MyDoom.O to spread itself and launch a DDoS (distributed denial of service) attack against Microsoft.com.
Analysts have also found that MyDoom.0 keeps track of every PC it infects. Is yours one of those PCs?
AOL worker arrested in alleged spam scheme
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Authorities have charged an America Online employee with stealing 92 million AOL customer screen names and selling them to a Las Vegas Internet marketer. Jason Smathers faces up to five years in prison and a fine of
$250,000 under a national antispam law. Offer your opinion about this story.
Here Comes Windows XP SP2
After what seems like the longest incubation process on record, it looks like the next version of Windows is almost ready to ship. That's right, Microsoft has just released the second release candidate of
Service Pack 2 for Windows XP, which is almost a brand-new OS. If you're wondering what's inside, or how you're going to cope with
this new OS, don't miss our detailed coverage.
Google updates enterprise search appliance
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Web search leader Google wants to boost dreary sales in the enterprise search market with an updated hardware and software package that promises faster and more comprehensive results. The new system is Google's first
upgrade to its enterprise search appliance since it launched the appliance two years ago. Do you predict that this upgrade will help improve
Google's lackluster sales?
Microsoft creating Windows for supercomputers
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft is targeting yet another Linux-led market segment by announcing plans to create a version of Windows designed specifically for supercomputers. Linux has been the preferred operating system for developers of
multimachine supercomputing clusters, but Microsoft hopes to make a dent in this open source dominance with the still theoretical Windows Server HPC (High Performance Computing) Edition.
Tell us whether you think this is a direct attack on a Linux stronghold.
News: Did Linus Write Linux?
When the Alexis de Tocqueville Institution, a Washington, D.C.-based think tank, accused Linus Torvalds of not writing Linux, his response was colorful, to say the least.
Who knew Santa was a programmer?
Does election fallout bode ill for India tech?
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Shares in two Indian stock exchanges fell more than 15 percent Monday after the Congress Party swept into power in a parliamentary shift that could give more leverage to leftist parties. But analysts say it's a
short-term reaction, not an indication of the viability of India as a site for offshore outsourcing.
Discuss whether you think the fallout will have much of an impact on India tech.
Windows Longhorn In Depth
We took a nice, long look at the latest build of Longhorn to come down the pike, and we were mostly impressed. This latest version performed surprisingly well on our test machine--at least until we activated some
hidden features. If you're interested in the future of Windows, don't miss our exhaustive analysis, including a wide range of
never-before-seen screenshots.
Senate debates Net access tax
TODAY'S TOP STORY
The U.S. Senate kicked off discussions Monday that will decide how high taxes will be on Americans' Internet connections. A final vote later this week will determine whether to renew a lapsed ban that would
permanently prevent state and local governments from levying additional taxes on access to the Internet. Voice your opinion on this topic.
Microsoft commentary slams EU ruling
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft released a position paper Wednesday that insists the European Union's antitrust sanctions amount to "new law" that could harm other companies in the technology industry. A cross between a treatise and a
legal brief, the seven-page paper cites both the potential damage of the ruling and the alleged legal shortcomings of the decision.
Intel, AMD document case goes to Supreme Court
TODAY'S TOP STORY
In a case that could determine the fate of a European antitrust probe, the two biggest makers of computer microprocessors will go head to head today in the U.S. Supreme Court. The dispute between Intel and AMD depends
on a 40-year-old law that allows U.S. courts to make documents available to foreign tribunals. Discuss your thoughts on this case.
MSN Messenger flaw allows hard-drive access
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft disclosed three new software vulnerabilities and urged users to download separate patches to fix the flaws. One of the vulnerabilities affects MSN Messenger versions 6.0 and 6.1, and could let intruders view
the contents of a victim's hard drive during a chat session with the victim. The other flaws affect Outlook 2002 and Windows Media Services 4.1.
Microsoft considering update dubbed 'XP Reloaded'
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Reversing its earlier stance, Microsoft is contemplating making an update to Windows XP, which it would release before its next version of Windows. Code-named Longhorn, the new version represents a major overhaul of
the OS, but analysts don't expect its release until late 2005 or 2006. Issuing an update to XP would represent a significant shift for Microsoft.
Security Changes in Windows XP Service Pack 2
With Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2), Microsoft is introducing a set of security technologies that will help improve Windows XP-based computers' ability to withstand malicious attacks from
viruses and worms. Discover how Windows XP Service Pack 2 affects developers on this new product information page.
(February 23, Product Information) More...
New Windows Version Due by Mid-Year
Right now, Microsoft is busy wrapping up the second service pack for Windows XP (SP2). But with Longhorn (the next official Windows upgrade) looking more and more distant, it now seems like SP2 might include so much
stuff that it's virtually a brand new OS. We've got details on what to expect in this next version of Windows, and when you'll be able
to install it.
Program shields anonymous flaw sleuths
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is requesting tips about flaws in the nation's technological infrastructure, and a new law guarantees that the information will be protected from public disclosure. The
Protect Critical Infrastructure Information (PCII) Program allows companies to alert the federal government about security-sensitive flaws in its products without fear that the information will get into the hands of
hackers, customers, or competitors.
EU said to spurn Microsoft settlement proposal
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
The European Commission has declined Microsoft's proposal to resolve its antitrust case by including competitors' software on CD-ROMs sold with computers, a source familiar with the situation said Tuesday. The
commission thought the CD-ROMs would see little use from consumers and would be an unsuccessful channel for distribution, the source said.
Windows Code Leak Fallout
By now, you've probably heard all about how parts of Windows NT and 2000 were leaked onto the Web. It's a major snafu for Microsoft and, from all reports, the company is in turmoil, trying to figure out what to do.
We've been looking at the code leak from many different angles, including what Microsoft should do now and whether you should sneak a peek it yourself. But at least one question—whether or not crackers would exploit
vulnerabilities exposed in the code—has been answered. The first nastybot built to exploit the leaked code is out there.
Our special report has all the details on this transformational event, including news on the latest Windows threat
 TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft says it's looking into claims that file traders have been swapping its proprietary source code. A third party has illegally posted partial portions of Windows 2000 and Windows NT to the Internet, a Microsoft
spokesman said Thursday. Experts have raised potential security concerns, but the software giant has downplayed the issue.
Do More with Less: Reasons why Windows 98 is still a good choice
Windows XP is all the rage. Windows 98 is old news--get rid of it. Right? Maybe not. Here are some reasons why you might want to stick with Windows 98.
Debate this topic with your IT peers in our
Microsoft Bows to Pressure, Extends Support for
Older Windows Versions
Newest Trojan: Disguised to Do Damage
Microsoft Issues Three New Security Bulletins
Offshoring Eats Away at IT Pay, Study Shows
Intel Enters the SCO/Linux Wars on OSDL's Side
Older Windows versions win renewed support
TODAY'S TOP STORY
Microsoft announced Monday that it will extend support for the Windows 98, Windows 98 SE, and Windows Me operating systems until June 30, 2006. The software giant will offer paid phone support and will review
"critical" security issues. Microsoft originally intended to discontinue support for the Windows 98 family this month and planned to end support for Windows Me at the end of this year.
Anti-Sp*m Law a Bust So Far
The much-ballyhooed anti-junk e-mail law passed by Congress has done bubkus so far. In the law's first week, one AV company saw no change in junk messages, while AOL said garbage messages increased by 10%!
Learn why the problem hasn't gone away and what anti-spam companies are doing about it.
Win98 Gets Reprieve
At the eleventh hour, Microsoft pulled Windows 98 back from the brink. Scheduled for the scrap heap, the venerable operating system is getting a new lease on life. How long will Microsoft continue to support it? What
does this mean to your company? Our special coverage has all the details.
Bad News for Oracle, Sybase, IBM
Open source databases are starting to gain steam, as customers begin evaluating popular products including MySQL and PostgreSQL. A growing comfort level spells problems for database vendors such as Oracle and Sybase.
IBM might do well to embrace—rather than compete—with the upstarts. For more details on database adoption, including MySQL's plans for LinuxWorld,
read our special analysis. Still trying to decide between the two popular open source programs? Database Topic Center editor Lisa Vaas
helps you decide.
Ellison Gives Up Chairman Post
Could this be the beginning of the end for Larry Ellison? He's given up the Chairman of the Board post to CFO Jeff Henley. Could the 59-year-old Oracle founder be ready to step down completely? That's what some are
saying, but from where I sit, that dog don't hunt. Check out my analysis of what these moves really mean and what's really going on at
Oracle. Plus: Our special report on the latest PeopleSoft/Oracle fracas includes new details on the DOJ's upcoming decision—you might
not have to wait until March after all.
Social Networking Shoot-out: Get Hired or Get Hitched
Sure, it sounds dirty, but social networking is actually about using the Web to create new business and personal relationships. We put the top five free services to the test--helping you select the right one to
uncover that perfect mate or ideal boss. Read our review for details on which site is the best, or click ahead to one of these
exciting new services.
Motorola Licenses Technology from Apple Founder Wozniak
What's Woz been up to? Building a GPS tracking business in stealth mode, actually. But now the secret's out, as Motorola has licensed the cool new technology, nicknamed WozNet. It's designed to track just about
anything, but how does it work? And what will Motorola do with it? We've dug up a few shovels-full of dirt on the technology,
including what "Wheels of Zeus" means.
New Athlon 64 Speeds Past Competition
We went gaga over the AMD's first Athlon 64—a super-fast CPU for gaming and other desktop applications. Alas, it was too expensive for mere mortals. Well, now AMD's released a new edition, the 3400+. The 2.2Ghz
follow-up is important both for what it can do for your applications and for the insight it provides into the AMD's 64-bit architecture. Will performance scale as the clock speed increases? You'll have to check out
our detailed performance analysis for the answer, but I'll give you a bit of a hint: Wow! It's a lot cheaper than the first one, too. If
you're buying a computer, don't overlook this gem.
CES Wrap Up
Want to know what was important at CES 2004? We sent a team of over twenty journalists to cover the show and ended up with more than 100 articles about the storied event. If you don't want to read 'em all (which you
can do at CES.PCMag.com), take a look at my CES wrap-up. I've put together a list of the most
important products and trends, so you can amaze your friends with all the cool new gadgets and gizmos coming down the pike. Plus: Don't miss our wrap-up of
all the keynotes speeches, including HP's Fiorina railing at music downloaders, FCC Chairman Powell on HDTV, Gates, Dell, and so much
more.
Segway Clone Hits Streets of Vegas
Leery about spending five grand for a Segway? Well, now you can ride around on a knock-off for only $1,000. It's a Segway with training wheels—instead of the balancing gyroscope, two rear wheels keep your from tipping
over (I call 'em the Bush wheels). What's it look like? Who makes it? Our report has the answers.
Biometric-Based Security—Is It Worth It?
You've probably heard that every non-citizen arriving in the US now has to be fingerprinted. But I bet you didn't know that the American government will spend at least ten billion dollars to build the tracking system.
Is it worth it? Our Enterprise Applications Topic Center editor takes a close look at the system and comes away concerned—very concerned.
Find out why in his analysis.
Great New Gaming Newsletter Launches
OK, I'm going to toot our own horn here for a minute. We just launched a new newsletter for the videogame industry called Gaming Industry News (GIN). It's designed to give gaming execs everything they need to
know about the inner workings of the industry, but even if you're an amateur, I'll bet you'll like it. It's written by famed journalist Jimmy Guterman, who amazingly used to anchor coverage at eWeek's predecessor back
in the '80s! Check out a free download of GIN here. It doesn't come with elderberries, but it's a smooth read!
TechRepublic's top 10 articles of 2003
As 2003 winds down, the TechRepublic staff is gearing up for 2004. But before we look ahead, let's look back. Here is a list of the 10 most popular articles that appeared on
TechRepublic this year. Is your favorite listed? If not, send us an e-mail telling us what topics you'd like to see us cover in 2004. Thanks for subscribing to the
TechRepublic NetNote, and Happy New Year.
- Use IP and BGP to troubleshoot Internet connectivity
If you're having trouble accessing an Internet site or an IP address, but the resource appears to be available to others, you may need to do some complex troubleshooting. Here are a few tricks related to
IP and BGP tracing.
- SCO plays a nasty game with Linux market
In March, SCO filed suit against IBM, claiming that its Linux code contained elements of UNIX. In a rare show of agreement, analyst firms are offering scathing opinions of the lawsuit and SCO's arguments.
- Passing the e-Biz+ exam: Payment, performance, security
E-commerce sites need administrators who understand the intricacies of electronic business--and certs such as CompTIA's e-Biz+ are designed to help admins prove they have that knowledge. Here are some
areas to focus on as you prep for this exam.
- Security audit action list for CIOs
After you have established your security controls, the security job becomes one of maintenance. Perhaps the best way to ensure that your security controls are working is a security audit. This article
examines each type of IT security audit.
- Don't throw out a bad CD-ROM drive until you've tried these techniques
Before you discard a CD-ROM drive that's gone bad, try these troubleshooting tips. You might just save your company a few dollars.
- Hacking the hacker: How a consultant shut down a malicious user on a client's FTP server
For an IT consultant, the best way to deal with someone who has hacked into your client's system may be to hack into theirs. That's just what one consultant did on a recent job for a software development
firm whose FTP server had been used for illegal activity.
- Politics and distance can mask potentially damaging team dynamics
Squabbling teammates can affect client perceptions of your IT consulting business. This consultant learned that lesson the hard way and took steps to keep it from recurring.
- Download boot disks for all your needs from these Web sites
For support techs, creating boot disks is a thing of the past--others have done the work for you and uploaded their files to the Internet. Find out where you can download free boot disks for all your
needs.
- Seven statements CIOs shouldn't make
Thanks to comedian George Carlin, everyone knows the seven dirty words that can't be said on broadcast television. But many CIOs may not be familiar with the seven statements that should never be uttered
to a CFO or CEO.
- Quiet noisy computer fans with a drop of oil
Don't let a poorly performing fan overheat your PC. Learn how to safely silence a noisy cooling fan and extend its life with a drop of oil.
IT Consultant Republic's top five articles of 2003
 Here is a list of the five most popular articles that appeared in
TechRepublic's IT Consultant Republic this year. Is your favorite listed? If not, send us an e-mail telling us what topics you'd like to see us cover in 2004. Thanks
for subscribing to the IT Consultant NetNote, and Happy New Year.
Hacking the hacker: How a consultant shut down a malicious user on a client's FTP server
Perhaps the best way to deal with someone who has hacked into your client's system is to hack into theirs. That's just what one consultant did on a recent job for a software development firm whose FTP server had
been used for illegal activity.
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