Windows Update - Importance of Security Updates

Computers and computer software can quickly become out of date, requiring updates in order to ensure that everything is running right. The purpose behind the Windows Update feature is to allow Windows users on personal computers get the updates that they need for security, software and other similar purposes. Microsoft Windows typically releases their updates on Tuesdays, and these updates are typically a mixed bag of security improvements, support improvements and other updates made to the software and operating system running on your computer. It is important to make sure that you are employing the most important of these updates in order to keep your computer running right.

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Windows update launches only work for computers running Microsoft Windows operating systems such as Microsoft Windows 95, Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows 2000, Microsoft Windows XP, Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Windows 7. Keeping the operating system updated is essential, even if you feel like it may not be necessary. Generally when your computer downloads the updates, Windows will give you a dialogue that allows you to see which updates are most important and which are not. This can help you decide which updates to install and which not to worry about, which is an important consideration depending on the types of updates that are available to you.

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Your task bar will have a popup that tells you that Windows updates are ready for installation. You can click on the little icon here and it will bring up a dialogue box. The dialogue box will tell you how many windows update options are necessary and how many are simply optional. You can go down the whole list of updates and check or uncheck the boxes as you please, so that you are only installing the updates that you are interested in. Click install, and Windows will begin the process of updating your computer.

Once the Windows update installer is completed, it will prompt you for a restart. You generally need to reboot your computer after you do an update in order for all of the new security updates and other software updates to take effect. You can tell Windows that you do not want to reboot your computer right away, but you should reboot it as soon as possible so that you can start taking advantage of the new security updates that you installed and all of the benefits that they have to offer you.

Windows Update - Importance of Security Updates

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SQL Server Security Updates

Microsoft's has a whole new attitude towards the security. In their own words: "We will rethink our approach to security. We will examine our code for vulnerabilities. We will release patches as needed. We will turn off most features by default in order to keep the footprint small. If you need something, turn it on. But if you don't need it, leave it off. That way if a vulnerability is discovered in a product you are not using, you won't be affected."

The latest SQL Servers has come up with many additional security features; these features not only make the database more secure, but also more explicable and easier to manage. Database applications can be developed by the programmers, whilst running with the precise privileges required, with the added new features. This feature is called "the principle of least privilege." A programmer is no more required to run as a SA (System Administrator) or DBA (Database Administrator).

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Some of the main new features that have been added in the latest version of the server, are as follows:

Security for.NET

A combination of different SQL Server permissions,.NET code security and Windows permissions are required to administer and execute the.NET code. 3 distinct levels are used to decide as to what a code cannot or can do outside and inside of SQL Server.

The Password policies for the users of SQL Server

If running the SQL Server on a Win 2003 Server, then the users are allowed to go by the similar policies as for integrated security users.

To Map a SQL Server user to Windows credentials

The users of SQL Server are allowed to use Windows credentials when they access any of the external resources such as network shares and files.

Separating schemas and users

Schemas in a SQL Server refer to the 1st class objects that can be owned by a user, group, application roles or a role. The fact that the definition of synonyms is allowed, make this very easier to administer.

Permissions grant

It is no longer required for logins or users to be in some specific roles to get certain permissions; all of them are grantable with REVOKE, GRANT and DENY verbs.

Fresh security on the Server's metadata

One is not allowed to directly update the new metadata views, and only if a user has permissions to certain metadata about specific objects, that he can list them.

Support of encryption keys and certificates

The latest security features allows the server to manage encryption keys and certificates, for use with Web Services SSL, with Service Broker, for new data encryption, and with code authentication.

Above are but some of the many new security features the SQL comes with. But It would help you in giving some idea about how the Microsoft has tried to work hard in fixing any security loopholes in the old versions of the SQL Server, and how they have made it much more secure than the earlier versions of this server.

SQL Server Security Updates

More information: SQL server security

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Windows XP - Update to Service Pack 3 by July 13 2010 Or Lose Automatic Updates

Microsoft ends their support for Windows XP Service Pack 2 on July 13 2010. It is essential that your Windows XP computer is running Service Pack 3 by this date in order to keep the automatic updates coming to your computer.

Microsoft's Update System

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Microsoft regularly pushes updates, patches and security updates to computers running various versions of Windows XP. As new software problems and vulnerabilities are discovered, Microsoft prepares new updates to address them.

Microsoft's regular scheduled monthly update is on the second Tuesday of each month. This is often referred to inside the computer industry as "Patch Tuesday". Occasionally, Microsoft determines a patch or security update is too important to wait and send these updates out before the regular update schedule. These unscheduled updates are known as "out of band" updates.

Why The Updates Are Needed

Some of the updates are to fix glitches or minor problems with the different versions of Windows. Sometimes new features are added by the updates. But most important of all, security updates are sent out by Microsoft's update system.

Malicious software writers are constantly examining software for vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities are problems or issues with the software code that allow them to access a computer. With this access, they can download and install viruses, trojans, spying software and other types of malicious software. Microsoft and other software vendors are always on the lookout for areas of their programs that could allow malicious access to a computer.

Its like a cat and mouse game. A software vendor releases a new program. The malicious software writers go to work looking for ways to exploit the software code to let them access your computer. As they find new ways to get inside your computer, the software companies find new ways to stop them with updates and patches. The malicious software writers go to work looking for ways to use the new updated code to let them in. The software vendor provides newer patches and updates. This game constantly swings back and forth.

Keeping your computer up to date is essential. And the way to keep your Windows software (Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7) up to date is by using Microsoft's free update system. After a while software code gets to be too old to keep updating and patching. That is what is happening with Microsoft's decision to drop support on Windows XP Service Pack 2. As of July 13 2010, Microsoft will no longer support Windows XP running with Service Pack 2. They will continue to support Windows XP running Service Pack 3.

What Is A Service Pack?

A service pack is a collection of the patches, updates and security fixes for a product. For example when Windows XP was first available, it was the original version. After preparing updates and patches for awhile, Microsoft combined them together, along with some product enhancements and improvements into Service Pack 1. This process continued and Microsoft combined all the security patches and updates into Service Pack 2. This was several years ago.

In April 2008, Microsoft combined all of the previous patches, updates, security fixes and product enhancements into the latest service pack, Service Pack 3.

All of Microsoft's updates and service packs are free.

How Can I Check The Service Pack Level On My Computer?

To see which service pack your version of Windows is running, you need to press 2 keys on the keyboard at the same time.

Press the Windows "Flag" key in the lower left corner of the keyboard. It is located between the "Ctrl" key and the "Alt" key. While holding down the Windows "Flag" key, press the key labeled "Pause Break". This key is located in the upper right corner of the keyboard.

Once you press these 2 keys together you will see a "System Properties" screen. If this screen didn't pop up, try again. It can take a few tries to get the feel of using multiple key presses.

In the upper half of the "System Properties" screen there is information about the version of Windows you are running (Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7). Just below this you will find the Service Pack level. For Windows XP, you should already be running Service Pack 3.

What To Do If Your Computer Is Not Running Service Pack 3 for Windows XP

If you are running Windows XP and are not running Service Pack 3, check to be sure your computer is set up to receive Windows Automatic Updates.

To check this, bring up the "System Properties" screen again by pressing the "Windows Flag" and "Pause Break" keys at the same time again. When the "System Properties" screen appears, you will notice there are two rows of tabs at the top of the page.

Click the "Automatic Updates" tab at the top. Be sure the "Automatic" selection is marked. Press the "OK" button at the bottom.

When Automatic Updates is active, your computer will automatically check with Microsoft to see which updates your computer needs. Your computer will automatically download and install the updates. This is the easiest way to keep your Windows current and up to date. Its also the recommended way to keep your Windows current and up to date.

Some people prefer to use the second selection, "Download updates for me but let me decide when to install them". With this option, your computer downloads all the updates and then notifies you they are ready. From here you can review them and decide which updates to use and when to install them. This option is often used by more advanced computer users.

You Can Also Update Manually

If for some reason your computer will not update with the automatic downloads, you can go to Microsoft's web site and select and download Windows updates manually. The web site address for manual Windows updates is http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com

(c) 2010 Geoff Burnette

Windows XP - Update to Service Pack 3 by July 13 2010 Or Lose Automatic Updates

Geoff Burnette - http://TheComputerBlogger.com. Geoff is a certified computer technician. He has been deeply involved in a wide range of computer support since the mid 1980's and enjoys sharing valuable tips and insights on Computers, Microsoft Windows, Computer & Internet Security, and general ways to get more from your computing experience.

Geoff thinks computers should be fun, not frustrating and really enjoys helping people really understand their computers. His blog is designed to help you use your computer - BETTER!

Check out his blog at http://TheComputerBlogger.com for more articles!

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Windows Update Agent - Obtaining Latest Version of Windows Update Agent to Manage Computer Updates

This article focuses on steps in obtaining the latest version of Windows Update Agent. The Update Agent is capable of managing your computer updates that are installed on your PC. This Windows tool and the Microsoft updates work together to successfully install updates on your PC. The particular Update tool also works well with your local server that runs Microsoft System Management Server as well as the Server Update System in a corporate environment.

The Upgrading Agent is automatically obtained by visiting the Web site of Microsoft and downloading it into your PC. Windows upgrade assists in keeping your PC up-to-date and secures the newest upgrades on security and feature from Microsoft. This also ensures which upgrades are appropriate for your computer.

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Periodically, the Microsoft makes available software data to users of Windows and other Microsoft products. These updating data increase reliability and performance that can provide new level of protections against unwanted software and malware as well as upgrades to your Windows features. In improving the reliability of your hardware and the performance of your computer components, Microsoft also provides updates to your device drivers supplied by your computer manufacturer.

If you want to enable Windows Update, some software components which are directly related to the Windows Update must also be updated on your computer occasionally. These updates need to be performed before your updating is able to check for required new data or before other files are installed. These required new data can fix errors, provide ongoing PC improvements, and maintain the compatibility with the Microsoft servers which support your Windows upgrade. If you decide to disable Windows new file, this will not allow you to receive any future data development.

You can select any of the following in enabling your Windows file under Automatic Updating in Control Panel:

o Automatic is recommended
o Download updating files for me, but let me choose when to install them
o Notify me, but don't automatically download or install them

When your Windows new file server, a client upgrade is usually required. During an operation of Agent tool, the Windows files are added, changed, or replaced. For instance, new files which help display user's experience or which determines whether these documents are applicable to a particular system. This scenario occurs if a system is set up to verify the available updates automatically, otherwise, this would not work. For instance, this scenario would not occur if you choose Turn off Automatic Updates in Windows XP or Never check for updates in Windows Vista.

It is recommended that you visit the Microsoft Web site to be able to download the latest Windows Update Agent to be installed on your PC. Generally, the aforementioned resolution guide is for those users who would like to resolve their problems with installing Microsoft updates to enhance the performance of your computer applications or Microsoft programs.

Windows Update Agent - Obtaining Latest Version of Windows Update Agent to Manage Computer Updates

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Windows XP Driver Updates - How to Get the Latest Updates For XP Drivers

For Windows users, you may sometimes discover that some hardware experience errors and other problems. This could be a problem with your Windows XP drivers not being updated. Basically, a driver is a software program that communicates to your system on how the hardware should work. If it is outdated, your computer may not function properly. This requires Windows XP driver updates.

The majority of Windows XP drivers tend to be generic and do not support all of the advanced features of the hardware being installed. Every now and then, a new version of a driver is released to fix bugs, patch security vulnerabilities, and add new features. It is a must then to update regularly to take advantage of these new enhancements. However, it is difficult for most users to do so because of the constant releases and the fact that it requires compatibility with the latest specification requirements. Well, this is not a problem anymore. Right now, there is Windows XP driver update software which does all these things automatically.

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Driver update software is a program designed to identify hardware devices that are installed on your computer and it will locate the most up to date drivers available for those devices. It will see to it that the update to be downloaded matches your current system specifications. New drivers will then be installed automatically. A notification is also sent whenever there's a new release so you are guaranteed to always have the latest driver installed.

There will be no manual updates and no spending too much time anymore for troubleshooting and searching the web for new releases. A simple scan from a driver update software is all it takes to keep your Windows XP drivers updated.

Windows XP Driver Updates - How to Get the Latest Updates For XP Drivers

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How to Keep Current With Microsoft Outlook Updates

Even though Microsoft Office Outlook is a mature product, Microsoft continues to send out a stream of important updates. While potentially a pain in the neck, this is actually good news since it tells you that Microsoft is actively supporting Outlook by fixing bugs and protecting you against spam (junk email). But this means to get the full benefit, you have to be conscientious about installing each update when it comes out.

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While Microsoft has tried to make this process easy and smooth, it still isn't intuitive or without quirks. Conceptually, the process is easy. You tell Outlook to check for updates, then download and install any of the available updates that you want. And this is where the first problem can arise.

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You don't have to install all the updates Microsoft offers you. One example would be updates for languages you don't speak. It's tempting to not install those. However, the best answer is to just install any updates Microsoft offers you. It simplifies your life by eliminating the need to evaluate each update that comes along and decide whether you want it or not.

My suggestion is that you check for updates about once a week, ideally on Thursday or Friday to accommodate Microsoft's usual release schedule. Patches normally come out only once a month, but if there is an emergency release, you won't want to be without it for long. It only takes a moment to do if there aren't updates available. If there are updates available, you want to get them installed as soon as possible. Setting up a recurring task to remind you to check is the best way to do this.

NOTE: Your company may have a policy about doing software updates that conflicts with the advice here. If yours does, you should always follow company guidelines instead of general suggestions like these.

While incorporating repeated Outlook updates may seem like a distraction from getting actual work done, if you incorporate the updatesover time you will gain a better-running program and less junk mail than you would have to deal with if you didn't install the updates. The reduced amount of spam (from improved junk mail filters that Microsoft sends as part of updates) alone makes keeping Outlook updated a net time saver.

Here's an outline of the steps you need to follow to check for and install Outlook updates:

Use your web browser to go to the Microsoft Office Downloads home page. Click the link that lets Microsoft scan your computer to figure out what updates you need. Select the updates you want to install and download them. Install the updates.

Those are the basic steps to getting Outlook updates. If you want more detailed instructions, you should visit a quality Outlook information site online.

How to Keep Current With Microsoft Outlook Updates

Living-With-Outlook.com is a site dedicated to providing quality Outlook tips and tricks and other information. You can get more detailed instructions on keeping Outlook up to date by going to the Microsoft Outlook Updates page.

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Microsoft Updates Malware Search Engine

Microsoft launched Malware Protection Engine 1.1.6603.0, an updated version of its Microsoft Malware Protection Engine (MPE) application, on February 23, 2011. The updated MPE fixes a major security loophole (Elevation of privileges) that let attackers, who already gained access to a user's computer, to enhance their user permissions so as to obtain administrative rights on the computer. Once exploited the loophole, an attacker could shoot arbitrary code or commands from the system and capture it completely. Thereafter, an attacker could install programs or applications, edit, view, modify, or remove data from the computer with full administrative rights.

If not fixed, an attacker could exploit a locked-down Windows PC by entering in it and launching an attack script, which converts a registry key into a special value or code. When the MPE runs its subsequent scan, it runs the specially-crafted key that equals the attacker's privilege rights to the genuine user rights due to the fact that the preset LocalSystem rely on the computer. Generally, LocalSystem has major privileges and is used by the service control manager. For creating all this mess, the attacker needs to be on the computer with authentic login credentials because unknown users can not use this loophole.

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All the applications or services in Windows XP and 2003 can be masqueraded despite the attributed privilege rights. The impersonation practice could be continued by an attacker irrespective of the inclusion of various latest security features designed to protect threads from such activity. The IT managers are advised to run processes/applications as regular users with must-have privileges on considering the likely occurrence of such practice of exploiting this security loophole. Therefore, they are not required to run SQL Server processes/applications as Local Service or Network Service. Further, computers running on Microsoft Internet Information Services are recommended not to run ASP.NET-based web applications in full-trust mode.

MPE is featured in a number of Microsoft security applications including Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE), Forefront Client Security, Windows Live OneCare, and Forefront Endpoint Protection 2010 among others. Given that these applications update themselves regularly, the administrators and users will receive the new update automatically in 48 week time or by the end of the weekend, as per the company.

Though, Microsoft has not come upon any malpractices preying on the security loophole, the chances of threat occurrence were good enough for the company to update its application. The Elevation of privileges threat was founded by the Cesar Cerrudo, the CEO of Argeniss, a security research firm. Cesar Cerrudo publicly issued his 'Token Kidnapping' research during the Black Hat security conference in July 2010.

Microsoft Updates Malware Search Engine

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