* Educational materials about Microsoft's latest security fixes and more
It was a big week for Microsoft security fixes last week, as June’s “Patch Tuesday” brought 10 security patches, including three deemed critical.
The three critical patches repair flaws in Windows and Internet Explorer that could allow an attacker to take control of a computer of an unsuspecting user.
None of the exploits, however, were known or publicized outside of Redmond before the patches were release. Still, that could make them more dangerous, as malefactors will be goaded by the patch releases to try to identify (and exploit) the security holes. If you haven’t already downloaded and distributed the patches, you should get them and roll them out in your test lab to be sure they don’t break any applications and then get them out to users’ desktops as soon as possible.
If you’d like to know more about the patch releases, you can view the recorded Webcast that Microsoft presented on the day the patches were released. The Webcast explains the patches and what they fix. While you’re there, register for the July Webcast as well. If you’re watching live, you do get to ask questions of the presenters. For a link to the June Webcast please check out the related links area.
Microsoft does maintain a large library of recorded Webcasts for your perusal on demand. You can see and view them all at https://www.microsoft.com/events/webcasts/ondemand.mspx.
Included are important topics (“Windows Server 2003 Active Directory Diagnostics, Troubleshooting and Recovery”), interesting topics (“A Conversation with Microsoft CIO Ron Markezich: Metrics”) and some that may not appear to have any technical content (“Keeping the Customer King of YOUR Store”) – but there are sure to be dozens which will be of interest to you.
You’ll also want to check the upcoming schedule of live Webcasts (there can be a dozen or more every day!) for topics of interest. It’s a great way to learn more about Microsoft technologies without having to leave the office. It’s also a good way to find out about applications and services that could be useful to you without having to spend any money. Many of these services and applications are also available in evaluation versions, but watch the Webcasts first so that you can get the most out of the evaluation period.
The Microsoft Web site can be your best source of educational materials and is certainly the best place to learn about (and download) the security fixes your network and desktops need. I try to bring important parts of Microsoft’s Web site to your attention from time to time – but don’t wait for me, save the URLs and visit periodically, there’s always something new and interesting.
