Service Pack Archives - HTS Tech Tips

Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Available – SP1

Microsoft recently began shipping Windows 7 Service Pack 1. Initially available through direct download, Microsoft is now including Windows 7 SP1 as part of the regular Windows Update service that automatically downloads and installs priority updates for Microsoft products. Windows 7 SP1 is available for all editions of Windows 7 including Home Basic, Home Premium, Professional and Ultimate.

Inside Windows 7 Service Pack 1

Released to the general public on February 22, 2011, Windows 7 SP1 is a rollup of security patches, minor bug fixes along with a few tweaks that improve existing features. In reality SP1 does not contain a huge number of changes for computers that have been downloading and installing the monthly updates that Microsoft sends out regularly. Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is a healthy dose of security fixes and minor updates rolled into a single installation package.

A notable fix in Windows 7 Service Pack 1 is the HDMI audio problem that some people have experienced. There have been a lot of reports about the loss of HDMI audio devices after rebooting a computer. Problems with printing when using the XPS Viewer have also been fixed.

Another fix included in SP1 is the way that Windows 7 restores folders after logging on. Prior to SP1, previous folders would be restored in a cascaded position based on the location of the most recently active folder.

That behavior changes in SP1 so that all folders are restored to their previous positions. For example, it is now possible to change the “Restore previous folders at logon” function that is governed by the Folder Options Explorer dialog.

How to Install Windows 7 SP1

There are two options for installing SP1: Download the pack directly from Microsoft or wait for Microsoft to download the service pack directly to your computer as part of the standard Windows Update process. For direct download the Service Pack comes in a file over 500MB in size. When installing through the Microsoft Update process the size of the Service Pack will vary depending on the Windows 7 updates that have previously been installed.

Using the Windows Update service is the recommended method for installing SP1. If you would like to download the service pack directly from Microsoft’s website you can follow this link: http://windows.microsoft.com/installwindows7sp1

Installation times may vary from 30 – 60 minutes on average depending on your computer’s performance. This was confirmed through several installations I have done. Aside from the time required installations have been smooth and error-free.

There was one exception where the Service Pack did not complete the installation process and Windows Update returned an error message. By rebooting and retrying the process everything completed without any problems.

SP1 is not actually essential item for installation. However, it is worth having for the fixes that it does supply. With SP1 installed you’ll know you have all previous Windows 7 security fixes and other updates installed. Plus, at some point you may need SP1 installed to receive additional future updates.

Considerations Prior to Installation of Windows 7 Service Pack 1

As with the installation of any major operating system or software component it is encouraged to close all applications prior to installation. Rebooting the computer and turning off any antivirus programs prior to installing the SP may also be beneficial. You will be prompted to restart your computer after the service pack installation is complete.
Install all other available updates before installing SP1 including the KB2454826 Update. This Update will automatically be installed when you install the service pack by using Windows Update. However, Windows Update KB2454826 is not automatically installed when you install the service pack from the Microsoft Download Center.
Scan your computer for malware by using antivirus/antimalware software that is up to date.
If you are using a portable computer, make sure that you connect your power adapter to an electrical outlet prior to installation of the Service Pack. Do not unplug or restart the computer during the installation.
Make sure that you save your work and close all open programs before you begin the installation process.

This first Windows 7 Service Pack was released approximately 16 months following the official release of Windows 7 in October 2009. This is 5 months longer than it took Microsoft to release the first service pack for Windows XP back in September 2002.

Security News: Microsoft Identifies Nasty New Bug | Provides Windows Patch

By MikeM

The last few weeks have seen a significant uptick in security problems. Many of these headaches are being caused by the concern of a new software worm circulating around the Internet. The Worm is now being identified as “Gimmiv” and the problem is serious enough for Microsoft to release a rare emergency Windows security patch – two weeks ahead of its normally scheduled monthly release of updates and patches.

According to PC Magazine, “This vulnerability is one of those rare ones that could result in a true network worm, where a system could be successfully attacked over the network with no user action at all.” The Microsoft advisory states that “Firewall best practices and standard default firewall configurations can help protect network resources from attacks that originate outside the enterprise perimeter.” It appears that firewalls, including the default Windows Firewall included in Windows XP and Vista, will block it.

“Antivirus 2008 ” — It Is Actually Spyware

Another spyware infestation we have seen (and removed) first hand recently includes a series of pop up windows indicating that you need to take some type of action to protect your system. Some of these pop ups are very well disguised and look very much like actual Windows Security dialog boxes. This spyware infestation includes “products” with names like “Antivirus 2008″ “Antivirus 2009”, “System Antivirus 2008”, “Windows Antivirus 2008” and “Vista Antivirus 2008” and “Ultimate Antivirus 2008.” Removal of these items is not necessarily an easy or straight forward process.

Some of these pop ups will explain that you need to pay $49.95 for the full antivirus license — Do Not. This group of spyware is what is known as a Trojan horse and can open up backdoor gateways into infected systems. Once infected the Trojan can download additional nasty items onto your system from the Internet as well as send your files off to other systems. Having your QuickBooks files sent off to who-knows-where is not a comforting thought.

If you do happen to see any indication of the above noted spyware “products” do not click on any of the links. Pop ups from these items can also include fraudulent error messages with some that look much like Windows messages. Clicking on any of the links can cause additional pop ups and/or cause other web sites to load in your browser. Current indications are that this spyware uses what is known as the Zlob Trojan as part of its engine for spreading the infestation. More information is available on the web by searching under any of the “product” names mentioned above.

What To Do — Recommended Actions:

Be sure your Internet security software is up-to-date. Run a manual update in the near future.
Run a full scan of your system after everything is up-to-date.
Install all current Windows patches and updates including Windows XP Service Pack 3 if running XP.
As always, close all other programs before installing Windows updates & patches.
Be sure to use firewall software and not just antivirus software. Firewall software is included in all Internet Security Suites.

Service Packs for Microsoft Windows and Office

By MikeM

Question: I’ve heard about things called “Service Packs” for Windows and for Microsoft Office. What is a “Service Pack” and do I need them?

Answer: According to Microsoft, “Service packs are the means by which product updates are distributed. Service packs may contain updates for system reliability, program compatibility, security, and more. All of these updates are conveniently bundled for easy downloading.”

Service Packs for Windows and Office

Services packs (SP) come out roughly every 12 – 18 months for most Microsoft products. In the last few months Microsoft has released a Service Pack for Windows Vista (SP1), Windows XP (SP3), Office 2003 (SP3), and Office 2007 (SP1). Each of these contains bug fixes, patches, updates and some even contain new functionality.

Recommendations for Microsoft Service Packs

We recommend installing Service Packs as they become available. Sometimes Microsoft will automatically transfer (push) these item down to your system across the Internet. Sometimes it will depend on how you have your Windows Update service configured. Service Packs can be large (60 MB – 300 MB) and can take a while to install fully. Be sure to close all other programs before installing a Service Pack and let the process run to completion.