News: Security in Small Business

Microsoft to Release a Dozen Security Patches Next Week

Busy time for IT consultants approaching

by Keith R. Wheeler

6/9/2006

Following an announcement by Microsoft regarding the latest security patches for their popular software products, the administrators of small computer networks will be up early and working late to finish the installation of this many updates. The patches breakdown according to this: Windows operating system: 9 patches Office applications: 2 patches Exchange Server messaging and collaboration system: 1 patch One of the Windows updates will be labeled critical by Microsoft along with one of the Office patches relating to an exploit of Word 2003 and Word XP. Twelve is the highest number of patches released simultaneously in more than a year. That means that Microsoft is still trying to make good on their claim to be a security company as well as a software company. Small business customers who understand the value of security will understand the need to have their consultants verify their current patch level. Responsive Network Services consultants do this from both the Chicago and Oswego offices based on two different approaches. One, using the recommended Scheduled Maintenance program has the primary consultant for each client check the patch level weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly. Secondly, for clients not enrolled in the Scheduled Maintenance program, our consultants will request approval from the client to install critical updates. Contact Responsive to inquire further about Microsoft security as well as our Scheduled Maintenance program.