Install this update to address an issue that will keep some applications from running in a 64-bit environment. When you try to run a 64-bit application that uses an Interface Remoting component of Microsoft Data Access Components (MDAC) 2.8, you may receive an "access violation" error message, or the dllhost.exe process may display 100% CPU utilization when viewed with Task Manager. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer.
Visual Studio 2005 out within days
Rumors have been flying everywhere that Microsoft's Visual Studio 2005 will be RTM (Released to Manufacturing) and on MSDN in a matter of days. Orginally thought to be on MSDN for download on October 14th, the release supposedly got slipped because the final RC build failed a regression test.
Update for Outlook 2003 Junk E-mail Filter (KB906173)
This optional update provides the Junk E-mail Filter in Microsoft Office Outlook 2003 with a more current definition of which e-mail messages should be considered junk e-mail. This update was released in October 2005.
Windows Vista Client/Server Product Key SKUs
As you may know, the October CTP build of Vista is now available for select individuals. As done previously, I decoded the product key information and found even more interesting SKUs... Here's the list, to date (a whopping 47 total):
Extended64
Extended64
Microsoft Windows Vista Build 5231 (Community Technical Preview 2) Review
In this exhaustive write-up, I examine the new features in Windows Vista build 5231, the October 2005 Community Technical Preview (CTP)! This build includes a wealth of new features, including Windows Media Player 11, Media Center, Network Center, and various IE 7 features!
MSN Messenger 8.0 Beta Sign-Up!
It's here! The sign up for the MSN Messenger 8.0 with the integration with the Yahoo IM Client.
TheHotfix
TheHotfix
Internet Explorer 7 Beta 1 Technology Overview
Internet Explorer 7 Beta 1 is intended to enable developers to begin to test the new browser for compatibility with their applications and Web sites.
Microsoft Reveals More of Vista
Today, Microsoft releases its second Community Technology Preview of Windows Vista to beta testers and subscribers to MSDN (Microsoft Developer Network) and TechNet. Here's a hands-on look at Windows Vista Build 5231 that reveals IE 7, Windows Media Player 11, and some heavy-duty, under-the-hood system enhancements. You'll also find a walkthrough of Vista search and Explorer.
Windows Media Connect 2.0
Installing Windows® Media Connect enables you to deliver music, photos, and videos that reside on your Windows XP PC to devices that support the uPnP protocol. This includes digital audio receivers, connected DVD players, set-top boxes and more. After you install this item, you may have to restart your computer.
Windows Vista Game (Shanghai Solitaire) Hacked @ Extended64
Here's a package I quickly put together, using win32 versions of bspatch and bsdiff, for Windows Vista's Solitaire application. No, this doesn't work with the Solitaire in the newly leaked 5231. Don't try it. No, the package does not contain any Microsoft binaries (e.g. Solitaire.exe).
Xinput Driver for Microsoft Common Controller
The Microsoft Common Controller Driver is a new game input standard that is used for both the Xbox360 console and for Windows XP SP1 and above. The Xbox360 controller or any controllers that utilizes this standard will enable the device to be used on Windows also.
Update Rollup 2 for Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 (KB900325)
Update Rollup 2 for Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 contains new features, functionality and improvements, including:
Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 Update Rollup 2 Review
Explore the last significant update to XP Media Center Edition in my review of Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 Update Rollup 2, codenamed Emerald!
20th Anniversary of Windows
When Windows first shipped, 20 years ago this month, it was considered nothing more than a slow operating environment that had arrived late to the party, well behind the industry leaders, Apple and Xerox PARC. Now, it's the operating system used on nearly 95 percent of all the desktops and notebooks sold worldwide. Take a look at Window's past and present, and what lies ahead in the future, including an interview with Mr. Bill Gates himself.
$300 to beta test for Microsoft
Beta test Microsoft Office Small Business Accounting "12" and get a free $300. That simple.
TheHotfix
TheHotfix
Microsoft Security Bulletin MS05-050 & MS05-052
This bulletin replaces a prior security update v1.0.
Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer (896688) Vulnerability in DirectShow Could Allow Remote Code Execution (904706)
Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer (896688) Vulnerability in DirectShow Could Allow Remote Code Execution (904706)
Windows Vista Client/Server Product Key SKUs Revealed
Upon digging around in Vista, I came across an XML file filled with alpha-numeric gibberish, quickly identified as base64 encoded data.
Windows Vista Sidebar Hacked For Windows XP
As you may have heard, the Sidebar from Windows Vista was leaked onto the internet weeks ago. ZoRoNaX and I have been working hard since PDC '05 to bring you the same Sidebar working on Windows XP.
MSN Mail Beta Preview
In my preview of MSN Mail Beta, I examine the current state of MSN's Hotmail successor, codenamed Kahuna, which will include an incredible Web mail experience, calendaring, tasks, contacts, and more!
Microsoft Security Bulletin for October, 2005
Download the latest security updates for Microsoft Windows, including Internet Explorer, plus Exchange Server.