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Microsoft database, tools software delayed
LAST week, Microsoft Corp. announced that it would delay the launch of two key software products aimed at large businesses.
The latest versions of Microsoft’s SQL Server database software and Visual Studio, its set of software tools used to build other programs, will now be delivered in the first half of 2005 instead of the original target by then end of 2004, said Tom Rizzo, director of product management at the SQL server unit.
SQL Server 2005, which is now the official product name instead of its previous “Yukon” code name, needed more testing at customer sites to make sure the program was reliable, secure and performed well.
In addition to the database software, Microsoft also said it would delay the newest release of Visual Studio, which was code-named “Whidbey,” to release in the first half of 2005. Whidbey, which is also now officially known as Visual Studio 2005, is a set of software development tools used to create programs that work with Microsoft’s software platforms.
Since the newest version of Visual is designed to work closely with SQL Server, it was delayed as well, said Microsoft’s Rizzo.
Latest software flaw ‘critical’: Microsoft upgraded a recent security warning to “critical” after discovering new ways in which an attacker could run malicious software on a vulnerable computer. The software flaw, which affects the two latest versions of MS Outlook e-mail, calendar and contacts program, were initially rated as “important” in Microsoft’s monthly security bulletin.
Cisco boosts security portfolio
Cisco Systems has delivered new threat-defense and security extension technologies designed to identify and thwart a growing array of attacks on enterprise networks from worms, viruses and other mal-codes.
Additions to Cisco’s IOS software include IP Source Tracker, an extension that pinpoints entry points for potential denial of service (DoS) attacks and provides routers with a reserved management channel for better response to network attacks. A role-based interface lets enterprises define network access based on administrative roles, allowing more precise control over security.
AMD chip in HP notebook
Hewlett-Packard is shipping two new notebooks that feature Advanced Micro Devices’ Mobile Athlon 64 processor as well as a previously unannounced version of its older Athlon XP-M processor, which uses some of the same technology found in the 64-bit chip.
IBM updates small servers
IBM has launched new versions of its Intel-based servers for small and medium-sized businesses. Based on the Pentium 4 processor, the xSeries 206 and 306 servers represent IBM’s latest attempt to target smaller customers.
The 206 is designed to be an e-mail or file and print server for small businesses. The 306, also a single-processor system, is a thin, 1U (1.75 inches thick) system designed to fit into large racks of servers. Its list price starts at $1339, according to IBM.
Both new systems use components derived from IBM’s mainframe inspired X-Architecture technology. This configuration also supports its Director system management software and Serial ATA disk drives, which can be swapped in and out of computers in less than a minute and without the use of tools, an IBM representatives say.
iPod imitator
UK developer Starbrite Solutions has a $20 software offering called pBop that may remind you more than a little of Apple’s iPod. While imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, pBop flattered the iPod too much as far as Apple’s legal department was concerned. pBop’s resemblance to the iPod was unmistakable, specially when the product first launched: It was originally called pPod, and featured an interface that was practically identical to third-generation iPods. The software included a navigation menu remarkably similar to the iPod’s, enabling users to browse stored MP3 files by artist, track name and album. — Sci-tech World Report
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