In addition to a collection of all the security fixes to date, Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) contains major improvements in network protection, memory protection, email security and browser security to effectively guard against hackers, viruses, and worms. Indeed, SP2 seems to provide an operating system upgrade rather than just a series of bug fixes. Due to the enormous enhanced security features and reports from some sites stating that SP2 would cause some normal applications fail to run, this service pack must therefore undergo an in-depth testing by the Computing Services Centre (CSC) and related parties before deployment. To prevent users from experiencing the undesirable situation where their applications fail for unknown reasons followed by an extra effort to remove SP2 from the affected machines, the CSC had temporarily blocked the downloading of Windows XP SP2 via Windows Update since 16 Aug., 2004. When the test is completed, the service pack will be automatically delivered and installed to those Staff LAN PCs which have joined the CITYUMD domain. As such, you are advised not to obtain SP2 from other sites or through other means. Your cooperation will be much appreciated. Should you have any queries, please feel free to contact the CSC Help Desk 2788 7658.

Related Information

For a list of programs that failed to run under Windows XP Service Pack 2, please visit
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=884130

Win XP SP2 Halts 15% of Systems, Survey Says
http://blogs.pcworld.com/staffblog/archives/000167.html

Security Watch Special: Windows XP SP2 Has a Dangerous Hole
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1759,1639276,00.asp

Windows XP SP2 is big step forward in security--but it can break things
http://techrepublic.com.com/5100-6264-5222856.html

Preliminary testing has revealed some problems with Windows XP Service Pack 2
http://techrepublic.com.com/5100-6264_11-5306355.html

Application Problems in Windows XP SP2
http://www.winnetmag.com/Windows/Article/ArticleID/43798/Windows_43798.html

Holes found in Windows XP update (BBC News)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/3583860.stm