May 6th, 2008
XP SP3: Now on Windows Update
A week after deciding not to release Windows XP Service Pack (SP) 3 via Windows Update and the Microsoft Download site as planned, Microsoft has begun pushing the collection of updates and fixes through those channels again.
On May 6, Microsoft both released officially SP3 and resumed automatic distribution of Windows Vista SP1. Distribution of both of the Windows service packs was halted when Microsoft discovered a compatibility glitch involving them and Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System, according to company officials.
Here’s Microsoft’s update on the situation, via a spokeswoman:
“Following last week’s discovery of a compatibility issue between both Windows XP SP3 and Windows Vista SP1 and Microsoft Dynamics RMS, Microsoft created and deployed a filter on Windows Update that will not offer either service packs to Microsoft Dynamics RMS customers. A fix for this issue is currently in testing at Microsoft and with customers and we hope to make it publicly available this month. Until then, Microsoft is advising Microsoft Dynamics RMS customers to not install either service pack. Microsoft Dynamics RMS customers running Windows XP SP3 or Windows Vista SP1 should contact Microsoft Customer Support Services for additional information.”
Microsoft released to manufacturing XP SP3 on April 21 — and after outcry for its paying TechNet and Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) subscribers — released the update to them shortly thereafter
(Thanks to WinBeta for the heads up on SP3 availability. Here are some links for SP3 on the Microsoft Download site.)
