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December 2001 UPDATE Table of Contents
Nov. 19, 2001

Operating Systems

Windows Public Key Infrastructure Extends Security
Doubts about the value of a full-blown public key infrastructure should not dissuade firms from implementing one strictly for internal security needs such as stronger logon security

Smart Cards Provide Stronger Log-on Security
The combination of smart cards and Windows 2000 gives organizations a stronger means of authenticating users without making them remember complex passwords

Get Secure, Stay Secure
Recent worms and an analyst’s warning are once again forcing Microsoft to address the security vulnerabilities of Windows and announce yet another new security program

Commercial & Consumer Services

Passport Changing from Closed System to Trust Broker
To make sure .NET My Services (Hailstorm) find a broad audience, Microsoft is redesigning Passport so it can work with other authentication systems

.NET My Services Picture Getting Clearer
Although .NET My Services are at least nine months from going live, Microsoft is trying to build developer support by revealing some details now

Sales & Support

Microsoft Certification Broadened, Extended
Facing a drastic drop in Microsoft-certified professionals, Microsoft has relaxed deadlines and exam requirements

"Family" Licensing for Home, SOHO
A new "Additional Family Licenses" program offers home users a modest discount on multiple copies of Windows XP

Corporate News

Microsoft Wins Antitrust Battle, War Will Continue
A proposed antitrust settlement contains good news for Microsoft and OEMs, but the case is far from over

Reorganization Focuses on Developers, Windows Server
The reorg mainly affects Jim Allchin's Platforms Group, which oversees all versions of the Windows operating system, the .NET Enterprise Servers, and developer tools