Πέμπτη, Ιουλίου 31, 2003

Diet Kazaa 2.51

"Diet Kazaa (formerly KaZaa Tap) is a Kazaa utility that removes all advertising, speeds up searches, gives more results and takes out useless icons (i.e. Shopping).

Diet Kazaa is freeware and legal addon program for KaZaA, Grokster, or Morpheus.

- Removes all BANNERs, POP UP ads, and Spyware!
- Makes searchs faster, and more results!
- Removes the 'bitrate' limit on MP3 downloads!
- Removes the stupid BonziBuddy/Shopping Icons..
- Adds QUICK search shortcuts to the systray!
- Changes the KaZaa Start homepage"

Neowin.net - Diet Kazaa 2.51

Active Directory Application Mode 1.1 (ADAM)

"For organizations that require flexible support for directory-enabled applications, Microsoft has developed Active Directory Application Mode (ADAM). ADAM is a Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) directory service that runs as a user service, rather than as a system service."

MSFN - Active Directory Application Mode 1.1 (ADAM)

GotDotNet User Sample: Version Incrementer for VB.NET Projects in VS.NET 2003

"This project shows how to write a VS.NET 2003 plug in using VB.NET. The example plug in automatically adjusts the version number inside the Assemblyinfo.vb file everytime the project is built, updating the revision number to be the .NET standard (the # of the day since 1/1/2000), and the build number is incremented by one for each build. "

GotDotNet User Sample - Version Incrementer for VB.NET Projects in VS.NET 2003

PHP 4.3.3RC2 released

"PHP 4.3.3RC2 has been released for testing. This is the second release candidate and should be nearly bug free. Please try this release, so that any remaining issues can be uncovered and resolved."

PHP: Hypertext Preprocessor - PHP 4.3.3RC2 released

Nero 6 'bug' that could wipe hard drive is found

"A German online magazine PCwelt.de reports that Nero 6 contains a 'bug' that could delete your entire harddrive. The bug is introduced with the Nero 6 Recode project. Bug might even not be the correct word for it, it seems more that Ahead forgot to limit the feature to empty the destination folder for temporarily files."

WinBeta.Org - Nero 6 'bug' that could wipe hard drive is found

Τετάρτη, Ιουλίου 30, 2003

Intrinsyc and Siemens to cooperate in area of cell phones powered by Windows Mobile 2003

"Siemens and Intrinsyc Partner on Wireless Modem Solutions for Devices Based on Windows Mobile 2003 Software

Provides Full Compatibility Between Siemens Wireless GSM/GPRS Modules and Devices Based on Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003

Intrinsyc Software International, specializing in creating, networking and managing specialized, intelligent devices, today announced it has entered into a partnership with Siemens mobile to collaborate on the development of wireless software products for the Siemens line of GSM/GPRS wireless modules.

These products include Radio Interface Layer (RIL) and Multiplexer (MUX) embedded software. They allow manufacturers of handhelds based on Microsoft/s Windows Mobile 2003 software for Smartphones and Pocket PCs to deliver wireless functionality based on the Siemens wireless modules with ease and flexibility while reducing development risk, cost and time to market. "

msmobiles.com - Intrinsyc and Siemens to cooperate in area of cell phones powered by Windows Mobile 2003

SCO Targets Linux Users

"The SCO Group has turned its focus to Linux customers, making it clear for the first time that it could sue them for using code that the company claims violates its intellectual property rights. Furthermore, in an effort to protect its claimed rights, SCO plans to roll out a UnixWare for Linux licensing program in the next few weeks."

PCWorld.com - SCO Targets Linux Users

Microsoft Finishes Windows P2P

"As it prepares several collaboration software products for debut this year, Microsoft has released a Windows XP update and software development kit to enable peer-to-peer networking across those products.

The Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP, which is available Thursday as a stand-alone update and will be folded into the Windows XP Service Pack 2 later this year, incorporates the necessary plumbing to enable applications that exploit P2P functionality - realtime communications and collaboration apps, for example, Microsoft executives said on Wednesday."

MSFN - Microsoft Finishes Windows P2P

Microsoft Developer Tools Roadmap 2003-2005

"In February 2002, software developers and architects worldwide were introduced to Visual Studio .NET and the .NET Framework. This landmark release, four years in the making, offered a unified development environment and programming model for constructing a range of software solutions. With the recent launch of Visual Studio .NET 2003, customers gain the benefits of a proven, stable foundation for building high-performance, trustworthy applications."

MSDN - Microsoft Developer Tools Roadmap 2003-2005

ADSL Αιτήσεις: Από τέλος Αυγούστου!

"Ο ΟΤΕ Α.Ε. άρχισε να ενημερώνει τους αιτηθέντες για ADSL τηλεφωνικώς, από την αρχή της εβδομάδας, λέγοντας τους ότι λόγω πολλών αιτήσεων δεν μπορούν να εξυπηρετήσουν όλους και όσους "τυχερούς" τους πάρουν τηλέφωνο, θα πρέπει να περιμένουν μετά το τέλος Αυγούστου για το πολυπόθητο αυτό ραντεβού με τους τεχνικούς για την εγκατάσταση της ADSL."

ADSL Greek Independent ADSL Review Site - ADSL Αιτήσεις: Από τέλος Αυγούστου!

Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3.0 beta up for grabs

"Red Hat has put out a beta for version 3 of its enterprise class operating system, offering up support for a host of processors.

The Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3 beta - aka Taroon - is available in two forms -- the AS version for servers and the WS version for workstations. The server version has support for quite a few processors, including Intel's 32bit and 64bit chips, AMD's x86-64bit Opteron, and IBM's Power processor. The workstation version does not run on Power, but IBM has largely pushed Linux - SuSE Linux at that - for server use."

The Register - Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3.0 beta up for grabs

Sony details PlayStation Portable specs

"Sony has offered more detailed specifications for its upcoming handheld PlayStation console, the PSP.

Most notably, the new machine will feature built-in 802.11 wireless networking to enable multi-player gaming, the company said in Japan yesterday.

The PSP will be powered by a 90nm processor built from a MIPS 32-bit R4000 cores. The chip will feature a SIMD vector processing engine along the lines of Intel's SSE and PowerPC's AltiVec. Together with the chip's floating point units, the vector engine can churn out 2.6GFlops, Sony said."

The Register - Sony details PlayStation Portable specs

Microsoft Releases Beta Code For Whidbey Visual Studio .Net, Indigo Web Services

"Executives confirm Whitehorse modeling code For Visual Studio .Net

Microsoft this week released the first beta of its 'Whidbey' version of Visual Studio .Net.

At VSLive in New York, the Redmond, Wash.-based software giant gave its first demonstration of the next-generation Visual Studio platform for Microsoft's upcoming 'Yukon' database."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Releases Beta Code For Whidbey Visual Studio .Net, Indigo Web Services

Τρίτη, Ιουλίου 29, 2003

SMS 2003 Release Candidate 1 at BetaPlace

"The SMS product group released SMS 2003 Beta RC 1 Build 2.50.2625.0019.

Systems Management Server (SMS) 2003 provides a comprehensive solution for change and configuration management for the Microsoft platform, enabling organizations to provide relevant software and updates to designated users quickly and at reduced costs. Systems Management Server 2003 will extend these capabilities markedly and provide advantages. Improvements in these areas enable enterprises to effectively manage software, from devices to data centers, on Windows-based platforms."

MSFN - SMS 2003 Release Candidate 1 at BetaPlace

Microsoft Content Management Server 2002 Service Pack 1

"MCMS 2002 SP1 contains a collection of hotfixes and security fixes, as well as added functionality for Windows Server 2003, Visual Studio .NET 2003, and .NET Framework 1.1"

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Microsoft Content Management Server 2002 Service Pack 1

Microsoft Systems Architecture 2.0 Beta 3 Released

"MSA is a technology architecture for enterprise organizations. MSA caters to typical scenarios by providing planning guidance and implementation guidance that has been tested in labs before release. The planning guidance discusses design choices for implementing a technology architecture, which helps formulate the organization�s approach to standardized architecture. The implementation guidance documents the specific lab configurations built by Microsoft and various MSA partners to validate and prove the architecture and to ensure integration between their products."

MSFN - Microsoft Systems Architecture 2.0 Beta 3 Released

What's next for Visual Studio .NET & .NET Framework?

"Microsoft Corp. today unveiled the road map for future versions of its flagship development platform, Visual Studio� .NET and the Microsoft� .NET Framework. By providing details on the direction of its development products, Microsoft is enabling its customers to plan further investments in Microsoft .NET-connected software. Future versions of Visual Studio .NET and the .NET Framework will provide a path to platform advancements while setting the bar in developer productivity and enterprise-grade performance, and fostering a worldwide developer community."

MSFN - What's next for Visual Studio .NET & .NET Framework?

Microsoft Broadens Visual Studio Integration Program

"After gathering feedback from customers and industry partners alike, Microsoft has improved renamed its Visual Studio Integration Partner (VSIP) program by providing easier access to Microsoft Visual Studio integration technology and expanding its co-marketing program to better serve the needs of tools software vendors and enterprise customers."

MSFN - Microsoft Broadens Visual Studio Integration Program

Google Toolbar 2.0.92 Beta

"The Google Toolbar increases your ability to find information from anywhere on the web and takes only seconds to install. When the Google Toolbar is installed, it automatically appears along with the Internet Explorer toolbar. This means you can quickly and easily use Google to search from any website location, without returning to the Google home page to begin another search."

MSFN - Google Toolbar 2.0.92 Beta

FBI targets Net phoning

"Internet telephone calls are fast becoming a national security threat that must be countered with new police wiretap rules, according to an FBI proposal presented quietly to regulators this month."

(Ρε, τι ελευθερία που έχουν σε αυτή τη χώρα...)

CNET News.com - FBI targets Net phoning

Microsoft gets touchy feely with $26m Xbox pay-off

"Immersion has signed a $26m licensing deal with Microsoft, settling its lawsuit with the software giant and giving Microsoft a 10 percent stake in the firm.

In February 2002, US-based Immersion filed a lawsuit against Microsoft and Sony for patent-infringement, for use of its haptic, or touch, technology. While litigation against Sony is ongoing, Microsoft's decision to spend $26 million to license Immersion's technology effectively ends the legal fight between the two. "

The Register - Microsoft gets touchy feely with $26m Xbox pay-off

AMD cuts prices on processors

"Chip firm AMD cut prices on a number of its microprocessors over the weekend, with its highest desktop CPU, the 3200+ costing $464.
We predicted this would happen on the 6th of July, as you can read here.

The Athlon XPs, at their cheapest, cost $66 for a 2000+ chip.

But its 'desktop replacement' mobile CPUs are rather good value. For example, the 2800+M costs $185, with AMD taking advantage of the boom in the 'value' end of the market.

Intel has no price cuts scheduled for some months yet, as we sit waiting for the 3.40GHz Prescott to emerge."

MSFN - AMD cuts prices on processors

KDE 3.1.3 Released!

"The KDE Project announced KDE 3.1.3 today. It's the third maintenance release of the successful KDE 3.1.x series and ships with many bugfixes and improved translations. KDE 3.1.3 also contains a fix for a possible http authentication leak in the http referrer header (Security advisory). Users of KDE 3.x are advised to upgrade to KDE 3.1.3. Read the change log or directly jump to the download links on the KDE 3.1.3 Info Page. The Konstruct build toolset was updated accordingly."

KDE Dot News - KDE 3.1.3 Released!

PHP-Nuke 6.6 and 6.7 released to the public

"Hello Nukers! Few months ago I decided to have a new distribution method for Club members and only major releases will be available for the public. But many people, including Club users, requested to release any version as before, 30 days after the the Club release. After thinking on it I decided to listen to all of you who wrote me and release the version 6.6 and 6.7 to the public. So... starting from now, the Club distribution method will resume the initial idea, 30 days after the Club release it wil go public. I hope that this step calms down the water and the recents incidents on the community can stop, I don't want to see the users community fighting and flaming others, so I thought that this is the correct decision for the project. Feel free to download the new version from the Downloads Area. Have fun with the new versions and enjoy them."

PHP-Nuke - PHP-Nuke 6.6 and 6.7 released to the public

Sun's Linux: Not dead after all

"Although Sun Microsystems Inc. discontinued sales several months ago of its customized Linux distribution, the company hasn't entirely abandoned its do-it-yourself Linux strategy: In its forthcoming bundle of desktop software, code-named Mad Hatter, the included Linux operating system will be Sun's own.

Sun, based in Santa Clara, California, decided in April to stop marketing its Sun Linux 5.0, saying customers hadn't shown interest in having another version of Linux available. Several weeks later, Sun partnered with leading Linux distributor Red Hat Inc., whose operating system software it now sells on its x86 server hardware. Partnering with Linux vendors will remain Sun's server-side strategy, but on the desktop side, it will rely on its own distribution, Sun's Software Group Executive Vice President Jonathan Schwartz said Monday during a meeting with press in New York.

Sun's forthcoming Mad Hatter software bundle, now in beta testing, is a package of basic desktop applications comprised mainly of open-source components. It includes Sun's StarOffice productivity suite, the Mozilla Web browser, the Gnome (GNU Object Model Environment) desktop interface, and Ximian Inc.'s Evolution information management software. "

Neowin.net - Sun's Linux: Not dead after all

Finally: A Confirmation of 'Longhorn Server'

"It was nearly a foregone conclusion that Microsoft would release a new version of Windows Server in the 'Longhorn' timeframe. Today, Microsoft execs ended all speculation and said such a product is, indeed, on the books. But Redmond is still hedging as to when it will ship. Officials say a new Windows Server will hit in about three years (2006, for you math-challenged). But Longhorn client is supposedly due in 2005. Read more on what Microsoft said on Longhorn Server here. And check out what Chairman Gates told attendees of the company's annual Financial Analyst Meeting here."

Microsoft Watch - Finally: A Confirmation of 'Longhorn Server'

eWeek Predicts Mozilla will Challenge Internet Explorer

"In his latest opinion piece for eWeek, Jim Rapoza tackles a favourite topic of tech columnists recently: are the Browser Wars coming back? Rapoza thinks that they are and says Microsoft's recent decision to only provide enhancements to Internet Explorer via Windows upgrades could leave an opening for alternative browsers. Mozilla, Rapoza argues, is well-placed to take advantage of this opportunity with its up-to-date and innovative technology."

MozillaZine Talkback - eWeek Predicts Mozilla will Challenge Internet Explorer

Windows Memory Diagnostic tool (Beta)

"The Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the Random Access Memory (RAM) on your computer for errors. The diagnostic includes a comprehensive set of memory tests. If you are experiencing problems while running Windows, you can use the diagnostic to determine whether the problems are caused by failing hardware, such as RAM or the memory system of your motherboard. Windows Memory Diagnostic is designed to be easy and fast. On most configurations, you can download the diagnostic, read the documentation, run the test and complete the first test pass in less than 30 minutes."

MSFN - Windows Memory Diagnostic tool (Beta)

MSFAM: Longhorn Beta 1, Windows XP SP2, Plus! DME

Longhorn Beta 1 Still on Track for 2004

Windows XP SP2 This Year

New Version of Plus! Digital Media Edition on the Way

MSFN - MSFAM: Longhorn Beta 1, Windows XP SP2, Plus! DME

ABIT Ignites Total Hardware Security Era

"By announcing its IC7-MAX3 mainboard with the Secure IDE technology, ABIT opened the doors to a brand-new era of data-protection using hardware means. As we told you last week, ABIT integrated a special chip that does not allow reading from HDD unless a special key is installed.

Secure IDE is a device that connects to an IDE HDD and has a special decoder key; without this key, the hard disk cannot be opened by anyone. Even if the drive is removed from your PC, no one will be able to read data from it. ABIT claims that its Secure IDE will keep the Government supercomputers busy for weeks and will keep the RIAA away from your Kazaa/Soulseek files forever."

Neowin.net - ABIT Ignites Total Hardware Security Era

Κυριακή, Ιουλίου 27, 2003

MS to reveal more about reporting tools

"Microsoft said next month it will release more information about a reporting-service feature originally designed for Yukon database software, which will be available for SQL Server 2000 by the end of the year.

About 60 customers are currently testing SQL Server Reporting Services, though more than 100 others applied to be a part of the private beta, said Tom Rizzo, a Microsoft group product manager.

Microsoft will be releasing more data about how SQL Server Reporting Services works, including some technical white papers and developer walk-throughs, Rizzo said. The public beta is scheduled for the fall and the service will be available by the end of the year; included with the SQL Server license."

searchWin2000.com - MS to reveal more about reporting tools

Greenwhich renamed again

"The instant messaging server codename Greenwhich has been renamed again. First it was part of .NET server (now windows server 2003) as communiocation service, then it was removed and started as a server on its own codename Greenwhich. When beta was in progress the Server got the name Realtime Communication Server (RTC). Then MS announced that RTC was moved from the Windows System to the Office System Group.

Today MS renamed the product again: Microsoft Office Live Communications Server.

Also Microsoft announced Microsoft Office Live Meeting, which I assume is the successor of Exchange 2000 Conferencing server."

ieXbeta.com - Greenwhich renamed again

Microsoft Forges Ahead With New Compiler Technology

"'Phoenix' optimization and analysis framework to build on top of Redmond's .Net Framework.

Next week, Microsoft plans to offer an update on new compiler technology that is being co-developed by the company's Programmer Productivity Research Center (PPRC) and the company's developer tools division.
The company will detail its 'Phoenix' software optimization and analysis framework at the annual Microsoft Faculty Summit, which kicks off on Monday in Redmond."

Microsoft Watch - Microsoft Forges Ahead With New Compiler Technology

Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP

"The Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP is a recommended update for Window XP SP1. It includes a new version of the IPv6 stack, an IPv6 firewall, and a peer-to-peer infrastructure.

The Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP is a set of platform technologies designed to run on Windows XP SP1 to enable the use and deployment of distributed, peer-to-peer applications based on Internet standards. The update includes a new version of the IPv6 stack, including support for NAT traversal for IPv6 applications. An IPv6 firewall is included to protect the end-user's machine from unsolicited IPv6 traffic, while the peer-to-peer platform makes it simple to write distributed solutions."

ieXbeta.com - Advanced Networking Pack for Windows XP

Project Aims to Combine Mozilla and Java

"'The goal is simple. Build a Mozilla application so that a Java backend can be used to interact with a Mozilla/XUL front-end. It makes sense. Combine the power of Java's server libraries with the interactivity and user interface capability of Mozilla. Kevin Burton and Brad GNUberg are proud to announce java.mozdev.org, a central repository for open-source projects making this vision true. We have already posted two projects furthering this goal. First is a new build of BlackConnect for Mozilla 1.4 and JDK 1.3.1. BlackConnect is a pretty aggressive project... a full port of XPCOM to Java. This will allow developers to write components in JavaScript, C++, or Java and seamlessly integrate components used in other languages within the Mozilla platform. The second major project on java.mozdev.org are XPI builds of the Java Runtime, making installation of Java within Mozilla seamless for your Java-based Mozilla plugins. We need developers and testers!'"

MozillaZine - Project Aims to Combine Mozilla and Java - MozillaZine Talkback

Intel Discontinues several Pentium 4 CPUs

"We all now have to say goodbye to another set of Intel microprocessors that are being discontinued due to a known reason explained by Intel about market demand switching to products with higher performance.

This week Intel announced plans to discontinue Intel Pentium 4 2.0A GHz as well as Intel Pentium 4 2.20GHz processors. Additionally, the company said it intends to phase out the Xeon 1.80GHz chip with 512KB of L2 cache for entry-level servers and workstations. Last Product Discontinuance Order Date for the Xeon 1.80GHz chip is the 9th of January, 2004; Last Product Discontinuance Shipment Date is the 9th April, 2004 for boxed CPU and the 14th of July, 2006, for tray version of the microprocessor."

MSFN - Intel Discontinues several Pentium 4 CPUs

Creating an Unattended Windows XP and Server 2003 CD

MSFN is proud to announce a new Sub Site, where you can find out how to create an Unattended Windows XP and Server 2003 CD!

Have you ever wanted a Windows XP or Server 2003 CD that would install Windows by automatically putting in your name, product key, timezone and regional settings? Followed by silently installing all your favourite applications along with DirectX 9.0b, .Net Framework 1.1 and then all the Pre-SP2 hotfixes, updated drivers, registry tweaks, and a readily patched UXTheme.dll without any user interaction whatsoever? Then this guide will show you how you can do just that!

MSFN.org would like to thank Mike Wilson for his excellent material on this, which unfortunately he stopped working on just recently. But don't worry - we've decided to keep it updated with newer customizations and improvements!

Target Audience - Home users, who are constantly fed up with manually installing applications, downloading windows updates, and tweaking their OS to perfection on every format performed.

24th July Update: DirectX 9.0b Silent Install information added, including a patched dxsetup.exe to allow silent install switches.

View: Creating an Unattended Windows XP and Server 2003 CD

MSFN - Creating an Unattended Windows XP and Server 2003 CD

Microsoft 3° Build 1.0.0352.0 Released

"Microsoft have just released an update of its P2P connection software 3° for MSN Messenger with the build number 1.0.0352.0. The first official beta release, carrying the build number 1.0.0336.0, wasn't updated for months. Now, finally an update is out which is a sign that this project has not been discarded by Microsoft. The tool is still intended to be used with MSN Messenger 5.0, allthough we've tested it with MSN Messenger 6 and functions well with no noticable problems."

MSFN - Microsoft 3° Build 1.0.0352.0 Released

Microsoft IIS 6.0 Resource Kit

"Microsoft Windows Server 2003 and IIS 6.0 provide the services to support a secure, available, and scalable Web server on which to run your Web sites and applications. Whether you manage a single Web server or many, Internet Information Services (IIS) 6.0 Resource Kit will help you effectively plan, deploy, operate, and troubleshoot your IIS 6.0 solution. This comprehensive technical resource delivers an in-depth description of the new IIS 6.0 architecture, as well as reference information about IIS 6.0 features and services. It also includes practical information and tools to help you accomplish everyday administrative tasks."

MSFN - Microsoft IIS 6.0 Resource Kit

Windows XP Peer-to-Peer SDK

"This download includes the Microsoft Windows XP Peer-to-Peer Software Development Kit (SDK), including major components such as: Peer-to-Peer Application Programming Interface (API), Peer-to-Peer headers & libraries, sample applications, source code, and documentation for each of the Peer-to-Peer core areas, e.g., scalable and secure peer-to-peer name resolution, efficient multi-point communications, creation and management of persistent peer-to-peer groups, and distributed data management."

MSFN - Windows XP Peer-to-Peer SDK

Bart's PE Builder Version 2.0.2a Beta

"Bart's PE Builder helps you build a bootable CD similar to Microsoft's Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE). Microsoft Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE) is a minimal operating system based on the Windows XP kernel. It will give you a complete Win32 environment with network support, a graphical user interface (800x600) and FAT/NTFS/CDFS filesystem support. Very handy for burnin testing systems with no OS, rescuing files to a network share, virus scan and so on."

MSFN - Bart's PE Builder Version 2.0.2a Beta

Mozilla 1.5 Alpha for Windows

"Mozilla is an open-source Web browser, designed for standards compliance, performance and portability. Mozilla is a cousin to Netscape Communicator that is being developed by the Free Software Community with the cooperation and support of Netscape.

Mozilla 1.5 Alpha is out. There are some new improvements to Mozilla Composer, and Tabbed Browsing. See the What's New and Release Notes for more information."

MSFN - Mozilla 1.5 Alpha for Windows

ZoneLabs ZoneAlarm 3.7.202 Free Released

"ZoneAlarm is a software firewall solution and provides solid PC protection for the home user. It's free for personal and non-profit use (excluding government and educational entities). ZoneAlarm is compatible with Microsoft Windows 98/Me/NT/2000 and XP."

MSFN - ZoneLabs ZoneAlarm 3.7.202 Free Released

Iomega inches closer to mini-storage

"Iomega has unveiled details of a small, detachable storage drive it is developing for portable electronics gadgets.

The 1.5GB device, dubbed Digital Capture Technology, or DCT, uses a combination of hard drive technology created by Iomega and technology licensed from partner Fuji Photo Film, a digital camera maker. The drive's main component is a removable, disc-shaped cartridge that is about the size of a U.S. half-dollar, or roughly 1.5 inches in diameter, Iomega said Tuesday. It can be inserted into a slot built into a portable device or accessed using a USB (universal serial bus) connection, a representative for the San Diego-based company said."

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Iomega inches closer to mini-storage

Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.1

"Kazaa K++ is an enhanced Kazaa (KMD) with a lot of new features only available with K++.

What's New in Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.1:
- Merged the features of the two previous versions
- Fixed some bugs
- A lot of small improvements
- Updated IP block list
- Translating is now much easier"

Neowin.net - Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.1

Play along with 'better-looking' Lara Croft

"The latest 'Tomb Raider' game has a lot going for it -- a convincing story, game-play elements that are new to the franchise, a beautiful musical score and millions of excited fans that have waited more than three years for a new Lara Croft title.

Unfortunately, this action/adventure suffers from sloppy controls, unwieldy camera angles and frame rate issues that can slow the game to a crawl. The end result is a mediocre title that could've been great with a little more development time."

Neowin.net - Play along with 'better-looking' Lara Croft

Debate Over Zip Format Heats Up

"Questions about the splintering of the popular .zip file compression format may soon be resolved by the U.S. Patent Office. Two months into a was standards battle between WinZip Computing and PKWare over the way .zip software does strong encryption, PKWare, the company that has openly published the .zip specification since it was invented by company founder Phil Katz in 1986, has applied for a patent that it claims will govern the standards in dispute."

Neowin.net - Debate Over Zip Format Heats Up

Ahead Nero 6.0 Released

"Nero 6.0 Ultra Edition is the most comprehensive, versatile CD- and DVD-mastering and packet-writing suite on the market today. In fact, calling it a disc-authoring app is a disservice, because the suite also offers a very capable backup program, a DVD-authoring app that compares favorably with all but its pro-level competitors, and even a VCD/DVD movie playback program that includes support for MPEG-4 (the compression scheme that gives you near-DVD quality on a CD). Toss in a slick, completely configurable launch applet, numerous helpful utilities, and a responsive bug-fix policy, and you get a hands-down Editors' Choice. In fact, Nero 6.0 Ultra Edition would have been a landslide winner if it were not for a few minor bugs in our prerelease version and some quibbles with the interface in some apps. Still, if you've been thinking about Easy CD Creator, think Nero instead."

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Ahead Nero 6.0 Released

How to Tell if the RIAA Wants You

"File sharers can check a new online database to see if they are wanted by the recording industry. The Electronic Frontier Foundation has created a site where users can plug in their file-sharing user names. That name is checked against the list of those subpoenas filed in the Washington, D.C., district court. The group, which is gleaning its information from the publicly available Pacer database, said it will be an important resource for those who are concerned that the recording industry might be seeking their identities."

Neowin.net - How to Tell if the RIAA Wants You

Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 Software for Pocket PC 2003 [Jul. 24, 2003]

A casual glance at Windows Mobile software for Pocket PC 2003 creates the impression that little has changed between the 2002 and 2003 releases. This is not the case; there are significant improvements that will be most noticeable to power users, enterprise users, and developers. Here's an overview.

O'Reilly Network - Microsoft Windows Mobile 2003 Software for Pocket PC 2003 [Jul. 24, 2003]

StringBuilders Explained [Jul. 21, 2003]

"Visual Basic programmers have long enjoyed ease in string manipulations. It is easy to create a string, split it up, concatenate multiple strings, etc. For example, the following code sample illustrates how you could append one string to another to become one:

Dim st As String

st = 'Hello'
st += ' World!'

However, this seemingly innocent piece of code is not the recommended way to perform string manipulations in .NET. This is because strings in NET are immutable, which means that once a string variable is assigned a value, it cannot be changed. If the value of a string variable is changed, another string object is created during runtime. In the above code sample, two string objects are involved; one for the initialization and one for the concatenation."

O'Reilly Network - StringBuilders Explained

Longhorn to come with server and Office updates

"REDMOND, WASH.- Microsoft is preparing Office and server products to accompany the launch of Longhorn, the successor to Windows XP, Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates said Thursday, reigniting speculation about a server version of Longhorn.

'Longhorn is not just a release of a Windows client,' Gates said in a meeting with financial analysts at Microsoft's Redmond, Wash., headquarters. Longhorn is a 'big bet' for Microsoft and the company at the same time will have 'advances in Office and server' products, Gates said."

WinBeta.Org - Longhorn to come with server and Office updates

Office 2003 build 5507 in mailboxes now

"Microsoft Office 2003 Professional Edition build 5507 seems identical to the Technical Refresh build 5329 with only some minor updates to the VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) engine."

WinBeta.Org - Office 2003 build 5507 in mailboxes now

Microsoft DirectX 9.0b Released via Windows Update

"Microsoft has yet to officially unveil its new DirectX version 9.0b on the DirectX website, but it has quietly put it up on Windows Update."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft DirectX 9.0b Released via Windows Update

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-031

Cumulative Patch for Microsoft SQL Server (815495)

Who should read this bulletin: System administrators using Microsoft® SQL Server® 7.0, SQL Server 2000, Microsoft Data Engine (MSDE) 1.0, Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Desktop Engine (MSDE 2000) and SQL Server 2000 Desktop Engine (Windows).
Impact of vulnerability: Run code of attacker's choice
Maximum Severity Rating: Important
Recommendation: System administrators should apply the security patch to affected systems.

Affected Software:
- Microsoft SQL Server 7.0
- Microsoft Data Engine (MSDE) 1.0
- Microsoft SQL Server 2000
- Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Desktop Engine (MSDE 2000)
- Microsoft SQL Server 2000 Desktop Engine (Windows)

View: Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-031 & Patch Availability

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-031

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-030

Unchecked Buffer in DirectX Could Enable System Compromise (819696)

Who should read this bulletin: Customers using Microsoft® Windows®
Impact of vulnerability: Allow an attacker to execute code on a user's system
Maximum Severity Rating: Critical
Recommendation: Customers should apply the security patch immediately

Affected Software:
- Microsoft DirectX® 5.2 on Windows 98
- Microsoft DirectX 6.1 on Windows 98 SE
- Microsoft DirectX 7.0a on Windows Millennium Edition
- Microsoft DirectX 7.0 on Windows 2000
- Microsoft DirectX 8.1 on Windows XP
- Microsoft DirectX 8.1 on Windows Server 2003
- Microsoft DirectX 9.0a when installed on Windows Millennium Edition
- Microsoft DirectX 9.0a when installed on Windows 2000
- Microsoft DirectX 9.0a when installed on Windows XP
- Microsoft DirectX 9.0a when installed on Windows Server 2003
- Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 with either Windows Media Player 6.4 or Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 installed.
- Microsoft Windows NT 4.0, Terminal Server Edition with either Windows Media Player 6.4 or Internet Explorer 6 Service Pack 1 installed.

View: Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-030 & Patch Availability
View: DirectX 9.0b End-User Runtime

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-030

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-029

Flaw in Windows Function Could Allow Denial of Service (823803)

Who should read this bulletin: Systems administrators running Microsoft® Windows® NT 4.0 Server
Impact of vulnerability: Denial of service
Maximum Severity Rating: Moderate
Recommendation: Administrators of Windows NT 4.0 servers should consider applying the security patch.
End User Bulletin: An end user version of this bulletin is available at: http://www.microsoft.com/security/security_bulletins/ms03-029.asp.

Affected Software:
- Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Server
- Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Terminal Server Edition
Not Affected Software:
- Microsoft Windows 2000
- Microsoft Windows XP
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003

View: Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-029 & Patch Availability"

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-029

Big Changes Ahead for Red Hat

"Massive changes are coming to a red fedora near you. For a number of reasons, Red Hat Linux is now moving to a more open development model with less focus on boxed sets and more focus on community involvement. The announcement, which was partially leaked this weekend, was made official Monday morning by an announcement from Red Hat's Bill Nottingham."

WinBeta.Org - Big Changes Ahead for Red Hat

Palm to update handheld, cut prices

"'The Milpitas, Calif.-based hardware arm of Palm, called Palm Solutions Group, will announce Wednesday the release of the Tungsten T2 device, which is a follow-on product to its Tungsten T handheld, according to sources.

The new device will be available starting Wednesday and will cost $399. The line will continue to stress multimedia capabilities by including a built-in digital audio player and speaker, but it also comes with twice the memory, 32MB, of the previous Tungsten T model. The device will use Texas Instruments' 144MHz OMAP1510 processor and version 5.2 of the Palm operating system. The Tungsten T2 will come with a color screen that has a resolution of 320 pixels by 320 pixels as well as integrated Bluetooth technology--which will allow the device to connect to other portable devices, such as phones and notebooks."

WinBeta.Org - Palm to update handheld, cut prices

Microsoft Potential Tester Wanted!!

"Microsoft have put up a Beta Nomination survey on BetaPlace and anyone, yes anyone can fill in the survey instead of the standard email its all through BetaPlace on a survey so you know it didn't get lost or ignored.

So as the website says: If you are interested in becoming a beta tester for a program, sign in with your Microsoft .Net Passport account. When prompted, enter the GuestID 'BetaReq' and then go to the Potential Testers program."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Potential Tester Wanted!!

Swap Songs? You May Be on Record Industry's Hit List

"'Online swappers wondering whether their names are on the record industry's hit list can check online to see if they're among 871 whose identities were subpoenaed in the first step of unprecedented mass legal action to stem Net piracy.

The Recording Industry Association of America says it plans to sue the song traders next month.

The U.S. District Court's Web site is searchable, though users must first apply for an account; confirmation comes a week later in the mail, and there are fees for documents. The Electronic Frontier Foundation may offer quicker action: The activist group hopes to soon let the public check the same information through www.eff.org'."

WinBeta.Org - Swap Songs? You May Be on Record Industry's Hit List

Greek games ban breaks EC rules

"The European Commission yesterday issued a warning against Greece for passing a law to crack down on Internet gambling.

A blanket ban was introduced in July 2002 on all electrical, electromechanical and electronic games, including computer games, in all public and private places, including cybercafes, with the exception of casinos."

The Register - Greek games ban breaks EC rules

Motorola to ship Microsoft smartphone? Just ask

"Reuters yesterday reported that Motorola was bringing a Microsoft-powered smartphone to market later this year. This would represent a major win for Redmond, which has failed to sign a Tier One handset vendor for its software platform despite lobbying hard for six years. And Motorola is a prize indeed: it's the world's second largest phone manufacturer."

The Register - Motorola to ship Microsoft smartphone? Just ask

Longhorn is 'a bit scary'

"Longhorn, the next version of Microsoft Corp.'s Windows desktop operating system, will be so different from its predecessors that users may not like it right away, Microsoft Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates said Thursday.

'Longhorn is a bit scary. ... We have been willing to change things,' Gates said while trying to eat a fruit salad and drink a Diet Coke during lunch at Microsoft's annual financial analyst meeting at the company's Redmond, Washington, headquarters."

WinBeta.Org - Longhorn is 'a bit scary'

Critical Flaw In DirectX Affects Most Windows Systems

"Just a week after Microsoft issued three security alerts, including one rated at the highest level in the company's four-step system, the company disclosed another trio which featured a 'critical' vulnerability.

The most serious of the three warnings involves DirectX, the set of multimedia programming instructions used by most PC games, as well as other entertainment-oriented applications and peripherals, such as sound cards and audio players. Virtually all editions of Windows, including the newest software out of Redmond, Windows Server 2003, are affected.

'Microsoft is unaware of any instances of this vulnerability being exploited, but continues to strongly encourage customers to install the patch,' said a Microsoft spokesperson."

WinBeta.Org - Critical Flaw In DirectX Affects Most Windows Systems

Codename ORCAS: Visual Studio .NET 2005

"The Whidbey release of Visual Studio and the .NET Framework will represent a significant milestone in the Microsoft developer tools roadmap. Following the SQL Server Yukon and Visual Studio Whidbey wave of products, the next major platform update will be the Windows operating system release codenamed Longhorn. The Whidbey release of Visual Studio and the .NET Framework will run on this landmark operating system release, as will applications built with Visual Studio Whidbey. In addition, the subsequent release to Whidbey, Visual Studio Orcas, will support the managed interfaces, enhanced UI features, and other new capabilities of the Longhorn operating system. These include the Longhorn trustworthy computing and security model, new application model, improved communication and collaboration, integrated data storage, and innovations in presentation and media."

WinBeta.Org - Codename ORCAS: Visual Studio .NET 2005

NetCaptor 7.2.1 Released

"NetCaptor allows you to browse multiple Web sites at the same time. Utilizing Microsoft Internet Explorer, it opens each site in a separate tab, allowing you to switch between them easily. The number of sites that can be opened is limited only by system memory. In addition to browsing multiple Web sites at the same time, NetCaptor allows you to customize toolbars; open groups of sites (CaptorGroups) with a single click; drag and drop URLs onto other browser tabs; automatically close pop-up windows; turn the loading of images, sounds, videos, and animations on and off; and limit the displayed title length. Other features include a configurable Search button that supports multiple search engines, automatic HTML form completion based on information you specify, and keyboard shortcuts"

WinBeta.Org - NetCaptor 7.2.1 Released

Macromedia Flash MX2/2004 - First Look

"Macromedia is in making of their future design and development package these days. We have got some 'behind the scene' information for you about those future products particularly Macromedia Flash version of that package.

According to the sources closed to ieXbeta, the next products package of Macromedia will have 2004 or MX2 in the end of each product like Macromedia Flash 2004 rather than Macromedia Flash 7. During the beta testing process, the code name for Dreamweaver is Rockford."

WinBeta.Org - Macromedia Flash MX2/2004 - First Look

Τετάρτη, Ιουλίου 23, 2003

Cracking Windows passwords in seconds [updated]

"Swiss researchers released a paper on Tuesday outlining a way to speed the cracking of alphanumeric Windows passwords, reducing the time to break such codes to an average of 13.6 seconds from 1 minute 41 seconds. The method involves using large lookup tables to match encoded passwords to the original text entered by a user, thus speeding the calculations required to break the codes. Called a time-memory trade-off, the situation means that an attacker with an abundance of computer memory can reduce the time it takes to break a secret code."

Neowin.net - Cracking Windows passwords in seconds [updated]

Τρίτη, Ιουλίου 22, 2003

Cisco and Intel: the alliance the wireless world should fear

"The announcement says 'Intel and Linksys.' But you have to remember that these days, Linksys is owned by Cisco. Together these two giants, Intel and Cisco, are setting up their own little rival to the WiFi Alliance. Well, not so little, maybe... "

The Register - Cisco and Intel: the alliance the wireless world should fear

Anti-RIAA protests begin

"Users express anger at record industry move to force ISPs to shop file swappers.

Consumers have started to protest at attempts by the Record Industry Association of America (RIAA) to sue individuals for downloading files from peer-to-peer (P2P) sites such as Kazaa and Grokster.

Users are furious that the RIAA has issued subpoenas to internet service providers (ISPs) to force them to identify customers who share music.

The RIAA claims that downloaders illegally share copyrighted music, costing the industry millions."

WinBeta.Org - Anti-RIAA protests begin

Δευτέρα, Ιουλίου 21, 2003

SCO says it's time for Linux users to pay up

"SCO is giving the 'tainted' Linux users out there a way to clean up their filthy ways via a licensing program that will begin in the coming weeks.

After dolling out threats of legal action, SCO has called on enterprise Linux users to come forward and pay for code the company claims to own. The legal zealots at SCO reckon Linux has grown up too fast by nicking technology such as support for large SMP systems from its copyrighted Unix code. SCO plans to stat calling Linux customers this week, asking them to pay up or face the consequences."

The Register - SCO says it's time for Linux users to pay up

Real Basic to target Linux

"Real Basic, the rather good pro/am rapid application development tool, will support Linux when version 5.5 ships at the end of the year, its developer, Real Software, said today.

The news is probably of more value to Windows and Mac users, however, since Real Basic 5.5 will only support Linux as a target platform rather than as a host OS. "

The Register - Real Basic to target Linux

IBM ASP'ifies Siebel CRM

"IBM and Siebel are planning to tout some applications delivered over the wire. The pair are going to ASP'ify the Siebel CRM suite and offer it out to users on a monthly subscription service over the web, CNET reports.

No servers, no network. For this kind of game you just need a browser. Utility computing nirvana - something we've seen IBM attempt many times over the past ten years in one form or another. "

The Register - IBM ASP'ifies Siebel CRM

Samsung debuts 'world's fastest' PDA CPU

"Samsung today announced what it claims is the world's fastest PDA processor, the ARM9-based S3C2440, clocked at 533MHz.

Actually, Samsung claimed the device is 'the world's fastest mobile CPU', but we think Intel would challenge that assertion. Its mobile Pentium M is clocked at 1.7GHz, more than three times the frequency of the new Samsung part. "

The Register - Samsung debuts 'world's fastest' PDA CPU

Απάντηση της ΕΕΤΤ για το ADSL

Στην διαμαρτυρία που έγινε προ μηνών για τις τιμές ADSL του ΟΤΕ στην χώρας μας, απάντησε η Εθνική Επιτροπή Τηλεπικοινωνιών και Ταχυδρομείων.

ADSL Greek Independent ADSL Review Site - Απάντηση της ΕΕΤΤ για το ADSL

Ενημερωτικό έντυπο της ΕΕΤΤ

Ενημερωτικό έντυπο με τίτλο "Τώρα οι καταναλωτές μπορούν να επιλέξουν", εξέδωσε πρόσφατα η Εθνική Επιτροπή Τηλεπικοινωνιών & Ταχυδρομείων (ΕΕΤΤ).

Το έντυπο παρουσιάζει τις νέες δυνατότητες επιλογών που έχουν οι καταναλωτές, ύστερα από την πλήρη απελευθέρωση της τηλεπικοινωνιακής αγοράς και την επιτυχή εφαρμογή του Εθνικού Σχεδίου Αριθμοδότησης.

ADSL Greek Independent ADSL Review Site - Ενημερωτικό έντυπο της ΕΕΤΤ

Oριστικά οργανισμός η Cosmote

"Εθνικούς τηλεπικοινωνιακούς οργανισμούς με σημαντική θέση στην εθνική αγορά διασύνδεσης" είναι πλέον η CosmOTE, η Vodafone και φυσικά ο ΟΤΕ.

Το Συμβούλιο της Επικρατείας με την υπ΄ αριθμ. 515/2003 απόφασή του απέρριψε την αίτηση του εκπροσώπου της εταιρίας "COSMOTE – Κινητές Τηλεπικοινωνίες", που ζητούσε την αναστολή, ως παράνομης, της από 7.2.2003 απόφασης της Εθνικής Επιτροπής Τηλεπικοινωνιών και Ταχυδρομείων (ΕΕΤΤ). "

(Και τώρα αρχίζουν τα γέλια...)

ADSL Greek Independent ADSL Review Site - Oριστικά οργανισμός η Cosmote

Messenger Plus! 2.20.0053

"Messenger Plus! is an add-on for MSN Messenger and Windows Messenger, the two popular Instant Messaging softwares from Microsoft. Messenger Plus! adds different features to Messenger to make it more enjoyable for a regular usage. Messenger Plus! is not a chat program, it only adds functionalities to Messenger, it can't be used as a standalone application."

MSFN - Messenger Plus! 2.20.0053

Judge OKs $1.1 billion Microsoft deal

"A California judge on Friday gave preliminary approval to a landmark settlement under which Microsoft will pay $1.1 billion to settle a class-action suit that claimed it overcharged consumers for Windows."

Neowin.net - Judge OKs $1.1 billion Microsoft deal

Business Objects buys Crystal Decisions

"Business Objects is to buy Crystal Decisions, a rival business intelligence (BI) software vendor, for approx $820m, of which $300m is cash."

The Register - Business Objects buys Crystal Decisions

VMware Broadens Server Software

"VMware, whose software lets an Intel server run several operating systems simultaneously, will release new software Monday that supports a much wider variety of systems."

WinBeta.Org - VMware Broadens Server Software

Microsoft DirectX 9.0b

"It has also come to light that Microsoft is preparing another update to the End User Runtime - DX9.0b. (4.09.0000.0902) It has been released as part of the SDK update, so it shouldn't be to long until we see it in public too."

ieXbeta.com - Microsoft DirectX 9.0b

Κυριακή, Ιουλίου 20, 2003

"Switch" One Year Later: No One Switched

"A year after Apple launched its high-profile 'Switch' ad campaign, the company has nothing but lost market share, fewer users, a dwindling third-party developer pool, and, of course, the lovely Janie Porche, who saved Christmas. But as companies like Dell, HP, and IBM continue to distance themselves, sales-wise, from Apple, it's become increasingly clear than nothing the company does--ad campaigns, cool portable MP3 players, a rock-solid operating system, and even the debatably fastest PC on earth--is going to reverse its eroding usage share. With over 1 billion people using PCs vs. just 25 million using Macs, the numbers sort of speak for themselves. I think the big question now is whether Apple can remain viable as a niche player in the market. My gut feeling is that they can, but then I was an Amiga fan years ago, so maybe I'm not the right person to ask. "

Neowin.net - "Switch" One Year Later: No One Switched

Linux Ranks No. 2 On Microsoft Risk List

"Microsoft is taking the Linux threat seriously. So seriously, in fact, that open-source software comes in at the No. 2 spot on the company's top five list of risks. In a teleconference to go over the Redmond, Wash.-based developer's fourth quarter and fiscal 2003 results on Thursday, CFO John Connors detailed the five biggest risks to his company's business. 'The general economic environment is risk and driver No. 1,' he said. 'Linux and non-commercial software is risk No. 2.'"

Neowin.net - Linux Ranks No. 2 On Microsoft Risk List

Diet Kaza 2.50

"Diet Kazaa (formerly KaZaa Tap) is a Kazaa utility that removes all advertising, speeds up searches, gives more results and takes out useless icons (i.e. Shopping).

Diet Kaza is freeware and legal addon program for KaZaA, Grokster, or Morpheus."

Neowin.net - Diet Kaza 2.50

NET Alerts Version 6.0 Beta SDK

"Microsoft .NET Alerts is a message and notification routing service that can be used to deliver customer communication to computer desktops, cellular phones, wireless personal digital assistants (PDAs), or any e-mail address - all based on the customer's delivery preferences."

Neowin.net - NET Alerts Version 6.0 Beta SDK

Music Industry Wins 871 Subpoenas Against Internet Users

"The music industry has won at least 871 federal subpoenas against computer users suspected of illegally sharing music files (search) on the Internet, with roughly 75 new subpoenas being approved each day, U.S. court officials said Friday.

The effort represents early steps in the music industry's contentious plan to file civil lawsuits aimed at crippling online piracy.

Subpoenas reviewed by The Associated Press show the industry compelling some of the largest Internet providers, such as Verizon Communications Inc. and Comcast Cable Communications Inc., and some universities to identify names and mailing addresses for users on their networks known online by nicknames such as 'fox3j,' 'soccerdog33,' 'clover77' or 'indepunk74.'

The Recording Industry Association of America (search) has said it expects to file at least several hundred lawsuits seeking financial damages within the next eight weeks. U.S. copyright laws (search) allow for damages of $750 to $150,000 for each song offered illegally on a person's computer, but the RIAA has said it would be open to settlement proposals from defendants."

Neowin.net - Music Industry Wins 871 Subpoenas Against Internet Users

Red Hat to Abandon Shrinkwrap

"Red Hat, the leading American distributor of Linux, is changing the way its distributions are developed the company is expected to announce Monday. Red Hat has also decided to abandon the shrinkwrap box retail channel, company representatives said late Saturday, though there is some doubt that this will be part of Monday's announcement."

Neowin.net - Red Hat to Abandon Shrinkwrap

SCO readies new Linux licensing program

"The SCO Group is preparing a new Linux licensing program that it claims will allow users of the open-source operating system to run Linux without fear of litigation. The program will be announced 'within the next month or so,' according to SCO spokesman Blake Stowell, but on Monday the company will announce what he calls a 'precursor' to this program in a press conference with SCO Chief Executive Officer Darl McBride and SCO's high-profile attorney David Boies, of the firm Boies, Schiller & Flexner."

Neowin.net - SCO readies new Linux licensing program

Dell Drops 'Computer' from Its Name

"No.1 personal computer maker Dell Inc. changed its name Friday, but not its policy of using cash for share buybacks rather than dividend payouts.

The Round Rock, Texas company dropped 'Computer' from its name, as shareholders at the company's annual meeting endorsed Dell's diversification into the data storage and printer markets. But shareholders at the Austin, Texas, meeting got no joy when some asked the cash-rich company to start paying a dividend."

Neowin.net - Dell Drops 'Computer' from Its Name

BT overdoses on Cisco security fix

"BT restored its ADSL network to normal operation this afternoon after attempts to guard against a serious security problem overnight inadvertently disrupted the connections of a substantial minority of UK Net users this morning.

In response to a serious DoS risk affecting a wide range of Cisco routers and switches (which emerged yesterday), BT sensibly decided to upgrade the software on its core network routers to non-vulnerable versions of Cisco's IOS software. Unfortunately not everything went smoothly."

The Register - BT overdoses on Cisco security fix

Nero 6 delayed

"After being silent for the whole day, Ahead finally announced the delay of Nero 6 web release. Still Nero 6 Ultra Edition released to retail in the USA and is now available at leading retailers and online stores."

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Nero 6 delayed

Microsoft reveals Xbox sales figures

"Software giant Microsoft has announced its financial results for the quarter and financial year ended June 31, revealing firm figures for the global installed base of Xbox and its targets for the coming year. By the end of the financial year, Microsoft had sold 9.4 million Xbox consoles worldwide - far, far lower than some estimates recently, which had put the figure well north of the 10 million mark, with one piece of research suggesting that it was as high as 13 million."

Neowin.net - Where unprofessional journalism looks better - Microsoft reveals Xbox sales figures

Παρασκευή, Ιουλίου 18, 2003

Netcraft: Windows Server 2003 approaching 100,000 active sites; 8,000 sites switch from Linux

"When we first reported on Windows Server 2003 we gave an indication on the numbers of sites that had been put up prior to the official launch. In the three months since the launch the number of active sites has increased by over 300% and now stands at 88,400."

Netcraft - Windows Server 2003 approaching 100,000 active sites; 8,000 sites switch from Linux

The Future: The Mozilla Foundation and the End of Netscape

"There's a lot of confusion surrounding Tuesday's creation of the Mozilla Foundation and the disbanding of the Netscape browser development team.

While a major loss, the end of Netscape does not mean the end of Mozilla. There is no way that AOL can revoke the Netscape and Mozilla Public Licenses and make the code proprietary. The Mozilla code will continue to be available to all. AOL has also agreed to transfer the Mozilla trademark and other intellectual property (much of it dating back to when Mozilla was Netscape's mascot) to the new Mozilla Foundation. Netscape-owned hardware (such as the mozilla.org servers) will also be transferred to the new organisation. AOL will continue to employ some Netscape staffers, such as Asa Dotzler, for a couple of months to help with the transition."

mozillaZine - The Future: The Mozilla Foundation and the End of Netscape

Microsoft profits and sales go skyward

"Microsoft, the biggest software company on earth, once again bucked the trend in the IT sector by posting higher sales and earnings.

While most other global IT firms have struggled to grab more sales, Microsoft on Thursday said its sales were up nearly 11 percent year-on-year in its fiscal fourth quarter, to USD8.07 billion. CFO John Connors said that favourable exchange rates boosted revenue by USD255 million, but even without this gain, the company's revenues would have been up by 8 percent. "

The Register - Microsoft profits and sales go skyward

Red Hat lets people try new Linux core

"Red Hat has made good on a promise to let people try out Linus Torvalds' test version of the new 2.6 kernel, or heart, of Linux. The Linux seller said Monday that it would release 2.6.0-test1 RPM (Red Hat Package Manager) update files."

CNET.com - Red Hat lets people try new Linux core

Πέμπτη, Ιουλίου 17, 2003

IBM boosts Linux software for Power4

"IBM is set to release a new edition of its WebSphere business software for versions of Linux that run on its iSeries and pSeries servers, both of which use its Power4 processor.

The move, announced Wednesday, begins to flesh out the software portfolio that will be necessary if IBM is to succeed in its goal of making Linux popular on its full server line; Linux currently is most frequently found only on servers that use Intel processors. IBM's DB2 database software and some of its Tivoli management software suite are already available for Linux on the Power4 processor."

CNET News.com - IBM boosts Linux software for Power4

Oracle hires military adviser

"Oracle has hired former U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Joseph Kellogg Jr. to lead the company's development of new homeland security technologies for the federal government, said Kevin Fitzgerald, an Oracle senior vice president. Kellogg, former director of command, control, communications and computer systems for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is in charge of Oracle's work on a network-centric warfare initiative at the Department of Defense, Fitzgerald said."

CNET.com - Oracle hires military adviser

Lindows offers easier-to-install Linux

"Lindows.com, which tries to make the Linux operating system more consumer-friendly, has introduced a version of the OS that runs directly from a CD-ROM.

The San Diego-based company said Thursday that its new product, LindowsCD, is targeted at people who want to try Linux without altering or removing other operating systems running on their computers. The Linux OS CD is free for those who purchase or already own LindowsOS 4.0, the full-featured version of the company's software. The CD can also be purchased separately for $29.95."

CNET News.com - Lindows offers easier-to-install Linux

BEA ships key software upgrade

"Server software maker BEA Systems has released the final components of a crucial upgrade to WebLogic Platform, its flagship product.

BEA WebLogic Platform 8.1 is a suite of Java-based server software for building custom business applications. The package includes an application server for running Java programs, a corporate portal, specialized integration software and a development tool for writing programs based on Java and on XML (Extensible Markup Language)."

CNET News.com - BEA ships key software upgrade

Microsoft buddies up with new Office

"Open to new ideas. Plays well with others.

Microsoft is getting this unexpectedly good feedback from competitors, as it readies the next version of its Office desktop application package."

CNET News.com - Microsoft buddies up with new Office

Microsoft brains take on Google

"Microsoft has hired top scientists in its quest for search algorithms that will allow it to compete directly with Google.

Microsoft is actively working on new search algorithms it will use to power its own search engine and enter into competition with Google, according to the head of the company's Theory Group."

CNET News.com - Microsoft brains take on Google

Commodore 64 finds new guardian angel

"Ironstone Partners, which has licensed the Commodore 64 brand from Tulip Computers, confirms that it plans to charge a subscription fee for access to C64 resources, in a bid to help the company become the brand's 'guardian angel.'"

(Κάτι για Spectrum, θα δούμε;)

CNET News.com - Commodore 64 finds new guardian angel

Service tunes 56Kbps modems up to 784Kbps

"Data compression specialist QuikCAT Technologies has launched a service it claims is capable of accelerating email and web page access by up to 14 times."

The Register - Service tunes 56Kbps modems up to 784Kbps

Microsoft links SharePoint, FrontPage

"Microsoft announced Monday that beta versions of two of its upcoming Office 2003 applications have been integrated to make it easier to design corporate portals, internal Web sites companies use to disseminate information to employees. The new features allow companies to use FrontPage 2003, the revamped version of Microsoft's Web authoring package, to customize the standard page designs included in Microsoft's Office SharePoint Portal Server 2003 package."

ieXbeta.com - Microsoft links SharePoint, FrontPage

OpenOffice 1.1 RC On the streets...

"OpenOffice 1.1 Release Candidate has managed to trickle onto the web. One of the most welcome additions/fixes over the previous release of this product is the startup time of it. Feel free to snag both the Linux and Windows releases at the links provided below."

ieXbeta.com - OpenOffice 1.1 RC On the streets...

Plus! Digital Media Edition Update 2 (July 2003)

"Microsoft have recently enhanced the Microsoft Plus! experience and are releasing the following update to Plus! Digital Media Edition."

ieXbeta.com - Plus! Digital Media Edition Update 2 (July 2003)

Survey Finds Windows XP Boosts Reliability

"For the 16th year in a row, PC Magazine surveyed thousands of users to get a read on which PC vendors provide the best service and reliability. Dell and Apple lead the pack. But Microsoft plays a key supporting role, with Windows XP pushing reliability to new levels, according to the survey. To see the full results, check out PCMag.com's Service & Reliability special report here."

Microsoft Watch - Survey Finds Windows XP Boosts Reliability

Time To Sell Your Soul to the Devil?

"With employee stock grants in the offing, are you ready to walk the Redmond plank?

To join or not to join the ranks of the Evil Empire? That's a question that many in the tech industry have contemplated, at one time or another."

(To be or not be? Εγώ τρέχω...)

Microsoft Watch - Time To Sell Your Soul to the Devil?

TrustBridge To Be Recast as Security Server?

"Sounds as if Microsoft is remaking its TrustBridge technology into part of its identity-authentication suite of server products. This report says Microsoft announced at this week's Burton Group Catalyst event that it will turn TrustBridge into a security server. The new TrustBridge server will ship around the same time as Longhorn - 2005+. How TrustBridge will dovetail with Passport is fuzzier than ever now."

Microsoft Watch - TrustBridge To Be Recast as Security Server?:

OpenGroupware.org To Take on Microsoft Exchange

"Several independent developers have joined forces to build an open-source alternative to Microsoft Exchange. The OpenGroupware.org team will work hand-in-hand with the OpenOffice.org folks, they say. The binaries for a Linux version are downloadable now."

Microsoft Watch - OpenGroupware.org To Take on Microsoft Exchange

Sun and Microsoft: Strange Bedfellows

"Turns out it's not just Microsoft that bit the bullet and signed a Unix code-licensing deal with SCO. Sun Microsystems also secretly agreed to license the Unix source in order to avoid the legal wrath SCO has wrought on IBM's AIX. But Sun went Microsoft one better. Sun also received a warrant to buy as many as 210,000 shares of SCO stock at $1.83 per share as part of the licensing deal."

Microsoft Watch - Sun and Microsoft: Strange Bedfellows

Download and Build Quake II for .NET

"Vertigo Software Inc. has released Quake II .NET, a version of id Software's popular Quake II game ported to the Microsoft .NET common language runtime (CLR) using Microsoft Visual C++ .NET 2003."

(Τι άλλο θα δουν τα μάτια μας!)

MSDN - Download and Build Quake II for .NET

Dungeon Siege Expansion Announced

"Microsoft Game Studios has announced Dungeon Siege: Legends of Aranna, an expansion pack for Gas Powered Games' action RPG that came out in early 2002. The expansion will take players from the Kingdom of Ehb to the tropical island of Aranna, and the adventure will take place in nine new areas, including an expansive jungle region. "

MSFN - Dungeon Siege Expansion Announced

PlayStation 2 turns into web browser

"A PlayStation2 enthusiast has found a way to turn the games console into a web browser.

Web designer Martyn Brook has discovered that the console can be made to view almost any webpage instead of just those associated with Sony's online gaming service. Mr Brook has created a homepage that acts like a familiar web browser and lets PlayStation owners navigate around the web. Already his specially designed website is getting steady traffic from testers and players of Sony's gaming system."

MSFN - PlayStation 2 turns into web browser

Plextor announces new 8x DVD-Recorder

"Plextor, the leading manufacturer of personal storage devices, launches the fastest dual format (DVD-R/RW and +R/RW) internal and external DVD-Recorders on the market. With recording speeds of 8x, the PX-708A and PX-708UF can burn a full DVD (4.7GB) in less than 10 minutes. Both drives also have fast CD capabilities: recording at 40x, re-writing at 24x and reading at 40x."

MSFN - Plextor announces new 8x DVD-Recorder

Windows Server 2003 making gains over Linux

"Figures from Netcraft show that Microsoft's Windows Server 2003 is replacing Linux on many servers, making gains that will please Microsofties engaged in a war on the Open Source operating system.

A number of sites were seen to be switching to Server 2003 before its official launch but, in the three months since the launch the number of active sites has increased by over 300 per cent, Netcraft reckons, and now stands at 88,400. And around 6,000 of these have switched from Linux, as Netcraft shows here."

MSFN - Windows Server 2003 making gains over Linux

Microsoft loses key patent ruling

"With little fanfare, a federal judge has issued a critical ruling supporting a patent lawsuit against Microsoft brought by InterTrust, a digital rights management company.

In a crucial preliminary hearing aimed essentially at setting the ground rules for the trial itself, Judge Saundra Brown Armstrong ruled strongly in favor of InterTrust Technologies. The company is suing Microsoft on 144 counts of patent infringement, contending that Microsoft products ranging from the Windows operating system to the Xbox game system violate its digital rights management patents. "

MSFN - Microsoft loses key patent ruling

WindowBlinds 4.1

"Stardock has released WindowBlinds 4.1. WindowBlinds is a program that allows users to change the look and feel of the Windows GUI (title bars, Start bar, push buttons, radio buttons, etc.) on Windows XP (the full version supports Windows 2000 as well)."

MSFN - WindowBlinds 4.1

Trojan turns victims PCs in DDoS or spam zombies

"Anti-virus vendors are warning of the mass mailing of a new Trojan program 'Webber' (aka 'Heloc') which is capable of turning infected PCs into pr0n or spam propagating zombies."

The Register - Trojan turns victims PCs in DDoS or spam zombies

Cisco issues network security brown alert

"Cisco warned last night of a potentially devastating flaw affecting a wide range of routers and switches.

The DoS vulnerability rises from a bug in Cisco's core IOS software and could cause vulnerable devices to stop processing inbound packets on receipt of maliciously constructed IPv4 packets. Normal service would be restored only with a manual reboot. "

The Register - Cisco issues network security brown alert

Apple posts highest revenue for three years

"Apple posted a net profit of $19 million (five cents a share) for its third fiscal quarter last night on sales of $1.545 billion - it's highest quarterly sales since 2000."

The Register - Apple posts highest revenue for three years

Nokia Q2 profits slide 27 per cent on flat sales

"Nokia saw its profits tumble 27 per cent during its second quarter over the same period last year on flat sales, the company said today."

The Register - Nokia Q2 profits slide 27 per cent on flat sales

Congress mulls prison terms for KaZaA users

"Not satisfied with hacking P2P networks, or destroying the computers of file sharers, House Hollywood sock puppet Howard Berman (Democrat, California) is now sponsoring legislation that would jail people who trade as little as one MP3 on the Internet."

The Register - Congress mulls prison terms for KaZaA users

Is Microsoft Office 2003 Worth the Upgrade?

"There's no way around it. Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) Office 2003, the upgrade to Microsoft's productivity suite set to be released in the second half of this year, is a "tweener". It is not a major upgrade that ushers in a new era of features and functionality, but it does provide a number of welcome enhancements, especially for enterprise users."

WinBeta.Org - Is Microsoft Office 2003 Worth the Upgrade?

Microsoft adds Web apps to Java conversion tool

"Continuing attempts to lure developers from the rival Java development camp, Microsoft on Tuesday is releasing Version 2.0 of its Java Language Conversion Assistant (JLCA) software to enable migration of Java applications to the Microsoft .Net framework."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft adds Web apps to Java conversion tool

Microsoft Wins Homeland Security Contract

"WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday it has awarded a five-year, $90 million enterprise agreement to Microsoft Corp MSFT.O to become the department's primary technology provider. Under the contract, Microsoft will supply desktop and server software to the newly created department, which has merged parts of 22 different agencies into one entity."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Wins Homeland Security Contract

Sybase strengthens Linux support

"Vendor promises Linux commitment for all its products by 2004.

Database software vendor Sybase has increased its support for Linux with the launch of a global Linux professional services practice and a commitment that all Sybase products will support Linux by 2004."

WinBeta.Org - Sybase strengthens Linux support

MSN Messenger v6.0.0602 Released

"MSN have as expected released the final version for MSN Messenger 6, version 6.0.0602. Messenger Plus! still works in this version and ad-patches may follow."

WinBeta.Org - MSN Messenger v6.0.0602 Released

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-026

Buffer Overrun In RPC Interface Could Allow Code Execution (823980)
Originally posted: July 16, 2003

Summary
Who should read this bulletin: Users running Microsoft® Windows®
Impact of vulnerability: Run code of attacker’s choice
Maximum Severity Rating: Critical
Recommendation: Systems administrators should apply the patch immediately
End User Bulletin: An end user version of this bulletin is available at: http://www.microsoft.com/security/security_bulletins/ms03-026.asp.
Affected Software:
Microsoft Windows NT® 4.0
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Terminal Services Edition
Microsoft Windows 2000
Microsoft Windows XP
Microsoft Windows Server™ 2003
Not Affected Software:
Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition

Microsoft TechNet - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-026

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-027

Unchecked Buffer in Windows Shell Could Enable System Compromise (821557)
Originally posted: July 16, 2003

Summary
Who should read this bulletin: Customers using Microsoft® Windows® XP
Impact of vulnerability: Run code of an attacker's choice
Maximum Severity Rating: Important
Recommendation: Customers should install the patch at the earliest opportunity.
End User Bulletin: An end-user version of this bulletin is available at:
http://www.microsoft.com/security/security_bulletins/ms03-027.asp

Affected Software: Affected Software:
Microsoft Windows XP
Not affected Software:
Microsoft Windows Millennium Edition
Microsoft Windows NT® Server 4.0
Microsoft Windows NT® 4.0, Terminal Server Edition
Microsoft Windows 2000
Microsoft Windows Server 2003

Microsoft TechNet - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-027

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-028

Flaw in ISA Server Error Pages Could Allow Cross-Site Scripting Attack (816456)
Originally posted: July 16, 2003

Summary
Who should read this bulletin: System administrators running Microsoft® Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2000
Impact of vulnerability: Allows an attacker to execute code of their choice
Maximum Severity Rating: Important
Recommendation: System administrators should install the patch at the earliest available opportunity.
End User Bulletin: An end user version of this bulletin is available at: http://www.microsoft.com/security/security_bulletins/ms03-028.asp.
Affected Software:
Microsoft Internet Security and Acceleration (ISA) Server 2000

Microsoft TechNet - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-028

Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Deployment Kit

"The Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Deployment Kit provides guidelines and recommended processes for designing and deploying Windows Server 2003 family technologies to meet your business needs and IT goals."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Deployment Kit

Report: embedding Windows costs less than embedding Linux

"Embedded development projects based on Microsoft's 'Windows Embedded' operating system platforms (specifically, Windows CE .NET and Windows XP Embedded) are completed 43% faster and at 68% lower cost, on average, compared with similar projects using Embedded Linux, according to a report released today by market research firm Embedded Market Forecasters."

WinBeta.Org - Report: embedding Windows costs less than embedding Linux

Adobe Unveils Plans For XML Document-Creation Software

"Adobe Systems Inc. unveiled Tuesday plans for design software to build documents that leverage XML for processing data in business software."

WinBeta.Org - Adobe Unveils Plans For XML Document-Creation Software

Microsoft, Dell Land DHS Deal

"The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has awarded a $90 million, five-year contract to Dell Computer Corp. to provide, install and maintain Microsoft software for 140,000 computers at the agency. The deal makes Microsoft the primary software provider for DHS."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft, Dell Land DHS Deal

Virus expert loses head to Belgian hacker

"A row has once again broken out between two of the virus world's best known characters - Sophos senior technology consultant and mouthpiece Graham Cluley and Gigabyte, a female Belgian hacker."

WinBeta.Org - Virus expert loses head to Belgian hacker

'Yukon' Enters Beta Territory

"At long last, Microsoft is providing testers with its next-generation SQL Server code. To testers who've been awaiting Microsoft's first beta release of its next version of its SQL Server database: The wait is over. Microsoft released on Tuesday the first 'private beta' of 'Yukon' to 500 customers and partners. Microsoft will release the beta to another 1,500 testers by the end of the month. The company is making the bits available via its BetaPlace Web site."
WinBeta.Org - 'Yukon' Enters Beta Territory

EU to ban spam by October

"Member states of the EU are expected to have implemented Directives that will make unsolicited emails and SMS messages illegal on 31 October."

WinBeta.Org - EU to ban spam by October

AOL backs Mozilla with $2mn donation

"The future of the open source Mozilla Web browser - and its Firebird and Camino derivatives - appears assured for the foreseeable future with the news that AOL has made a $2mn donation to the new Mozilla Foundation"

WinBeta.Org - AOL backs Mozilla with $2mn donation

TweakUI 2.10 for Windows XP and Server 2003

" 'This PowerToy gives you access to system settings that are not exposed in the Windows XP default user interface, including mouse settings, Explorer settings, taskbar settings, and more."

WinBeta.Org - TweakUI 2.10 for Windows XP and Server 2003

Παρασκευή, Ιουλίου 11, 2003

Επίδειξη Δικτυου 3G απο την Nokia και την Telestet

"Demonstration continues a decade of innovation by Telestet.

Nokia and the Greek operator Telestet have demonstrated the first public WCDMA 3G call in Greece over a network ready for commercial use. The demonstration, which was conducted at the Info-Com Conference 2003 in Athens, also included a series of 3G services."

ADSL Greek Independent ADSL Review Site - Επίδειξη Δικτυου 3G απο την Nokia και την Telestet

Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-023

Title: Buffer Overrun In HTML Converter Could Allow Code Execution (823559)
Date: 09 July 2003
Software: Microsoft(r) Windows (r) 98
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition
Microsoft Windows Me
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Terminal Services Edition
Microsoft Windows 2000
Microsoft Windows XP
Microsoft Windows Server 2003
Impact: Allow an attacker to execute code of their choice
Max Risk: Critical
Bulletin: MS03-023

Microsoft encourages customers to review the Security Bulletins at:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/MS03-023.asp
http://www.microsoft.com/security/security_bulletins/ms03-023.asp

Technet - Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-023

Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.0

"Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.0 is released! Kazaa K++ is an enhanced Kazaa (KMD) with a lot of new features only available with K++. It's the same program, but with some new features added to it. Download from up to 40 sources at the same time per file (maximum was 8). Unlimited times 'search more' is possible (used to be only once). 'Find more sources' time-limit is now 4 minutes (used to be 10 minutes). Also, KaZaA Lite doesn't use port 1214 anymore, in case you've changed the port to another value."

MSFN - Kazaa Lite K++ 2.4.0

Microsoft adds Academic Enhancements to Visual J# .NET

"New Functionality Enables Teachers and Students to Target the .NET Framework Using the Java Language

As part of its commitment to academic computer science programs, Microsoft Corp. today announced the delivery of new resources designed to help students and teachers use Visual Studio® .NET 2003. Among the enhancements is the Microsoft® Supplemental User Interface (UI) Library for Visual J#® .NET, which provides much of the functionality described in the Java 2 JFC Swing specification and enables teachers to use existing Swing-based curricula and textbook examples with Visual Studio .NET 2003 and the Microsoft .NET Framework. Teachers who have existing Swing-based source code now can adopt Visual J# .NET with few or no changes required of the source code."

Neowin.net - Microsoft adds Academic Enhancements to Visual J# .NET

Πέμπτη, Ιουλίου 10, 2003

Alintex Script .NET 1.1 Released

"Alintex Script .NET brings multi-language .NET and Java (TM)* language scripting to your desktop. You can use it to produce lightweight, distributable programs that take advantage of the power and richness of Microsoft's .NET Framework and Java (TM)* JDK 1.1.4 libraries.

Amongst other features, it allows you to mix and match all supported .NET languages in the same script, yet optionally produce a single Portable Script File for easy reuse and distribution. See the product page for a feature list and links to further information.

Alintex Script .NET is free for personal use. Commercial use of this product, which includes any use within a commercial environment, requires the purchase of a commercial license."

Neowin.net - Alintex Script .NET 1.1 Released

Neowin.net - Messenger Plus! 2.20.0048a

"Patchou has released an update to Messenger Plus! Beta. The first version of 2.20.0048 was released already for the Plugin-Users to build there plugins better. This new version features bug fixes and better plugin support."

Neowin.net - Messenger Plus! 2.20.0048a

Apache HTTP Server 2.0.47

The Apache HTTP Server Project is proud to announce the tenth public release of Apache 2.0. This version of Apache is principally a security and bug fix release. Of particular note is that 2.0.47 addresses four security vulnerabilities:

  • Certain sequences of per-directory renegotiations and the SSLCipherSuite directive being used to upgrade from a weak ciphersuite to a strong one could result in the weak ciphersuite being used in place of the strong one.
  • Certain errors returned by accept() on rarely accessed ports could cause temporal denial of service, due to a bug in the prefork MPM.
  • Denial of service was caused when target host is IPv6 but ftp proxy server can't create IPv6 socket.
  • The server would crash when going into an infinite loop due to too many subsequent internal redirects and nested subrequests.

Neowin.net - Apache HTTP Server 2.0.47

Microsoft Speech Technologies Enable Enterprise Competitive

"Microsoft Corp. today announced several key milestones for bringing speech technology to the mainstream including the first public beta release of the highly anticipated Microsoft® Speech Server, a Windows Server System (TM) , and the beta 3 release of the Speech Application Software Development Kit (SASDK). In addition, Microsoft established several new resources to engage with enterprises looking to adopt Microsoft's Speech Application Language Tags (SALT)-based speech offerings. The resources include the Microsoft Speech Server Beta Program; an Early Adopter Program (EAP); and specialized training courses on Speech Server, the SASDK, and voice user interface (VUI) and speech application design. To build a solid foundation for companies interested in becoming partners, Microsoft also today introduced the Microsoft Speech Partner Program."

Neowin.net - Microsoft Speech Technologies Enable Enterprise Competitive

Microsoft spec invites controversy

"A Web services security specification, introduced this week by IBM and Microsoft, could emerge as a rival to the existing Sun Microsystems-backed Liberty Alliance Project."

Neowin.net - Microsoft spec invites controversy

We've found the perfect solution to spam

"The Internet Research Task Force's (IRTF) quest for an effective solution to spam has struck gold in the form of IT specialist Mark McCarron.

The IRTF's Anti-Spam Research Group (ASRG) mailing list has over the course of the last month carried details of Mr McCarron's remarkable Global ISP Email Identity System (GIEIS) system which he has devised over six years to provide a global system to stop not only spam but also viruses, worms and inappropriate content such as porn."

The Register - We've found the perfect solution to spam

Rambus renames Yellowstone as XDR DRAM

"Rambus has rebranded its Yellowstone memory interface technology. From now on, the system will be known as XDR, the company said today.

Yellowstone licensees Toshiba and Elpida said they will ship XDR-branded DRAM."

The Register - Rambus renames Yellowstone as XDR DRAM

MSN and eBay to Expand Marketing and Communications Alliance

"MSN® and eBay today announced plans to expand their relationship and further integrate the consumer services offered by the two companies. The new alliance will make online shopping a more convenient and inclusive part of the daily online activities of consumers by pairing popular offerings from MSN, the world's most visited online network, with eBay, the world's online marketplace. "

WinBeta.Org - MSN and eBay to Expand Marketing and Communications Alliance

Windows XP Update: Windows Error Reporting Update

"This update will enable you to automatically view responses to Windows error reports. After submitting an error report, if information relating to the crash event is available such as a fix, workaround, or other information, then the response may be viewed immediately and automatically. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer. Once you have installed this item, it cannot be removed."

WinBeta.Org - Windows XP Update: Windows Error Reporting Update

WiMAX set to overshadow wi-fi

"The past few weeks have seen a storm of debate about the economics and return on investment of Wi-Fi hotspots. What almost all the arguments entirely ignore is the standard lurking on the horizon, which will turn current assumptions on their head. This is the 802.16x wireless metropolitan area network (WMan) specification, which is being developed and promoted by the WiMAX industry group, whose most powerful members are Intel and Nokia."

WinBeta.Org - WiMAX set to overshadow wi-fi

Δευτέρα, Ιουλίου 07, 2003

Wireless rural BB service names the day

"Wireless Rural Broadband (WRBB) is launching its Sunshine internet access service on September 30. The company is kicking off in East Anglia and the East Midlands and reckons to have full national coverage by the end of 2005."

(Εδώ δεν έχουμε DSL και μερικοί το κάνουν wireless...)

The Register - Wireless rural BB service names the day

Tackling an IT job of Olympic proportions

"Welcome to Athens, where Philipps is chief technology integrator for Schlumberger for the 2004 Olympic Games. The event will mark the second set of games at which the consulting firm will be responsible for ensuring that an intimidating grab bag of technology parts works flawlessly together."

CNET.com - Tackling an IT job of Olympic proportions

Messenger Plus! 2.20.46

"You downloaded the software, or a friend sent it to you, and now you're wondering what it is all about? Messenger Plus! is an add-on for MSN Messenger and Windows Messenger, the two popular Instant Messaging softwares from Microsoft. Messenger Plus! adds different features to Messenger to make it more enjoyable for a regular usage. A list of the main features can be found on the main page of the Messenger Plus! site (click on the Features tab, next to Overview). Messenger Plus! is not a chat program, it only adds functionalities to Messenger, it can't be used as a standalone application.

Version 2.20.46 - July 6th
Some minor bugs have been fixed. The big improvement in this version is plugin support for Visual Basic. Download the updated API documentation at http://www.msgplus.net/plugins.htm."

Neowin.net - Messenger Plus! 2.20.46

Microsoft defends security track record

"Software designed by humans will always have flaws, says Microsoft, but the company argues that its security record is improving."

WinBeta.Org - Microsoft defends security track record