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2. Network Protection

This is another example where Microsoft is trying to protect consumers. The default installation for SP2 will turn on the new Windows Firewall. This firewall has been beefed up from previous versions and watches inbound and outbound traffic. It will also close all ports except when they are in use.

Things to think about: If you already use a software firewall, you'll want to compare how well this firewall works against your program. While we think all users should have a firewall, Microsoft's may not be the best for your needs. Many 3^rd party firewalls have additional security features that you might want. Again, it would be prudent to check vendor web sites or support forums before installing the service pack. You're probably not going to get any added protection by using two software firewalls.

If you use a 3^rd party firewall, the Security Center may recognize the program, but may not be able to determine its working status. Many firewalls include code that prevents other programs from tampering with the firewall regardless of intent.

3. Memory Protection

Of all the improvements, this area may be the toughest to predict how the changes will impact your computer. One major step Microsoft took was to recompile Windows core components with newer compiler technology that provides extra protection against buffer overflows. A buffer overflow occurs when too much data is forced into a storage area or memory. This change will be most evident on the newer 64-bit chips.

4. Safer Email

The biggest change will be for Outlook Express users. Outlook Express will handle HTML emails with images in a similar way as Outlook 2003. By default, the program will not download images in HTML emails. This will prevent spammers from validating your email address when you open an email. It will also impact legitimate senders who use images for tracking or reporting purposes.

The picture above shows a HTML email looks without images. To access the images, you click the header bar between the Subject: line and the email.

Another significant change is the Application Execution Service (AES) API. This code will handle unsafe attachments. The intent is to isolate unsafe attachments that harbor viruses. At first, Outlook, Outlook Express and Windows Messenger will use this code, but you can expect third party developers to start using this API.

Things to think about: If you use Outlook add-ons such as a spam filters or utilities, you should check the vendor support web site.