Security News > 2002 > January > Microsoft server glitch prevents users from downloading critical security patches for Windows

http://www.nandotimes.com/technology/story/219517p-2121371c.html SEATTLE (January 15, 2002 2:38 p.m. EST) - A Microsoft server software glitch left some users unable to download crucial security patches and other fixes for Windows software, a Microsoft official said Monday. The glitch was expected to be fixed by Tuesday, Microsoft spokesman Jim Cullinan said. Problems began last Thursday when the Redmond-based software giant attempted to update the software that routs users to appropriate servers to download patches and fixes, Cullinan said. A glitch in the update left some of the hundreds of millions of Windows users unable to download any data at all, Cullinan said. Microsoft heard sporadic complaints beginning Friday, but it was unclear how many users experienced problems. The problem came as security experts, including the FBI, are encouraging users of Windows XP - the latest version of Microsoft's desktop operating system - to download a patch to fix a serious security vulnerability discovered last month. The vulnerability could allow hackers to steal or destroy a victim's data files across the Internet or implant rogue computer software. That glitch was considered unusually serious because it could allow hackers to seize control of all Windows XP operating system software without requiring a computer user to do anything except connect to the Internet. The problem also affects some copies of earlier Windows ME software, and in some rare cases can affect users of Windows 98. Microsoft technicians were reverting to the old server routing software, Cullinan said, and the update site was expected to be running normally by Tuesday morning. - ISN is currently hosted by Attrition.org To unsubscribe email majordomo () attrition org with 'unsubscribe isn' in the BODY of the mail.

News URL

http://www.nandotimes.com/technology/story/219517p-2121371c.html