Windows XP SP3
This is just a short FYI. On April 21, 2008 Microsoft released SP3 for it’s Windows XP operating system. It released the service pack to computer manufactures who will include it computer now in production.
Next Microsoft’s will release XP SP3 to TechNet participants. Members of TechNet will be able to access the service pack on April 29 via Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Center. April 29 is also the date which Microsoft plans to release online documentation for SP3.
Those of us who use Windows XP at home (Home Users) can expect to be able to install SP3 sometime this summer. At that time Home Users should have the ability to install XP SP3 throught the operating systems automatic update feature. According to Microsoft there is a soft release date of June 10 for home users.
Windows XP SP3 is expected to be a somewhat light upgrade. Features are said to include a network access protection update, to support features in the Windows Server 2008 platform, plus an improved packet packet monitoring. If you would like more information Microsoft has made available a white paper (PDF) on the topic.
Service Pack 3 for Windows XP will be the last service pack for the XP operating system. The next operating from Microsoft may be available as soon as 2009. Windows 7 which will be a replacement for Windows Vista is supposed to be more scalable meaning there might be a version for mobile devices, automobiles, and traditional personal computers.
