Microsoft Releases Critical internet Explorer Patch

December 17, 2008
Microsoft has just issued an out-of-band security update to fix a critical vulnerability in its Internet Explorer web browser that is being actively exploited. The flaw, which affects all versions from IE 5 to IE 8 Beta 2, lies in the browser’s data binding function and is being actively exploited since last week through specially-crafted web pages. 

Although attacks have reportedly been limited, security experts warned that if carried out successfully, it could give an attacker the same user rights as the local user and ultimately the ability gain access to sensitive data. Microsoft is urging users of IE to download and apply the patch as soon as possible via the Windows Update mechanism. This marks the second time in only two months that the company has released a security patch outside of its monthly cycle, following one in October which addressed a dangerous remote procedure call (RPC) error that could result in remote code execution
 

Netbook Market Explodes

December 14, 2008

acer aspire one, mini-laptop, netbookThe market for netbooks, small notebook PCs with even tinier prices, exploded in the third quarter of this year, according to market researcher DisplaySearch, as vendors aimed their wares at students during the back-to-school season.

The global market for netbooks, also known as mini-notebooks, was 5.61 million in the third quarter, up 160% from the second quarter, according to a statement Tuesday from DisplaySearch, the Austin, Texas-based research firm.

Acer Inc. displaced ASUSTeK Comp...


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Windows XP: The OS That Won't Quit

December 14, 2008

windows xp, microsoft, xp, operating system, windowsPhasing out an old operating system is nothing new for Microsoft, but Windows XP is unique in that it may be too good to die.

This week, Dell announced it will offer systems with the aging Windows XP for a surcharge of US$150 over the newerWindows Vista--this only five months after it stopped offering XP on its Inspiron consumer desktop and laptop PCs.

The deadline for Windows XP downgrades has been pushed back twice now, remaining in effect until July 31, 2009-a strong indication that e...


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