Microsoft has released a beta version of its first Service Pack for Windows 7 . SP1 beta, including a beta download for Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 to save on individual download and deployment time. Another justification why both SP betas were released in one bundle could be the actual lack of really new updates. The Windows 7 SP beta release is a compilation of all released updates to date and is also advised by Microsoft as not being of great use Home users, with the only “new” features included in the service pack being Dynamic Memory Overview and RemoteFX Overview, tools focussed on Windows Server platform advancement for improving virtualisation in 2008 R2. read more

The end is nigh for Windows XP Service Pack 2, with support from Microsoft ending next Tuesday, as scheduled. Users should be aware that this means there will be no more updates or security patches for the products, compromising future protection of systems running XP SP2. Users are advised to ensure they download SP3 as soon as possible, with some support still being provided. read more

For those of you who started to break into a sweat at the news of the free trial version of Windows 7 Enterprise coming to an end in June – you have been spared for a few more months to come! The head honchos at the MS camp have extended the 90 day trial offer for businesses until the end of 2010. read more

Although you’ll still be able to squeeze a couple more months out of your Windows 7  RC (end date scheduled for 1st June this year), the end is most certainly on its way. Reminders every 4 hours started on the 15th February, which will in time be reduced to a reminder every hour, and auto shutdowns every 2 hours as of this month. read more