Windows Server, Service Packs Due in 2008

Windows Server 2008 and the first Vista service pack will emerge in early 2008, according to the latest guidance from Microsoft. The company will release a third service pack for Windows XP in 2008 and is beginning to provide limited information on future versions of the Windows client and Internet Explorer (IE). Based on preliminary information about the contents of these service packs, most customers will likely deploy them shortly after release. (For a graphical view of these developments, see the illustration “Windows Roadmap Overview“.)

Windows Client

For the Windows desktop client, details are emerging for Windows XP SP3; Vista SP1; Vista’s successor, code-named Windows 7; and IE 8.

Windows XP SP3, the next service pack for Windows XP, is planned for 2008. Unlike XP SP2, which was a major change to Windows XP, SP3 is a traditional service pack and will include a large number of updates and fixes made since Windows XP SP2 shipped. SP3 will not require XP SP2 but will install on any version of XP, including XP SP1, and will likely be the last SP for Windows XP prior to the product leaving Mainstream support, so most customers will need to install it for ongoing support.