Has anyone tried the new SP2. I believe it is still beta, but not sure. Here is the SP2 for multiple machines and here is the direct link to begin downloading SP2 Some strange features etc...
It is indeed the RTM (Release to Manufacturer) and not the beta. I am a tester for MS and would recommend that everyone upgrade. Although there are not many differences that you will notice it is a great step towards a more secure system. It is basically one huge patch.. A 'Security Center' now runs in the system tray which monitors your anti virus software, the built in firewall and automatic updates. There is also a Wireless network setup wizard. If you would sooner download it via Windows Update it should be available there within the next few days.
Thanks l0cke, Interesting tool. Why were there 2 releases? One for developers and one for the regular Joe. When I installed I said no to the PC protect or whatever it was. Can you enlighten me more on what this does. I see the icon, what kind of system resources is it using. Is information being gathered about my navigation etc...
They release it on their website first in the URL you provided above mainly for network admins / developers so they can deploy it easier / get their apps working with the new release should there be any problems. It is then released via windows update for the average Joe. The settings in the security center all depend on your setup. For example, I have the firewall turned off (I have a hardware firewall), I have auto updates turned off (I want to be in control of the updates installed on my computer) and I have the virus protection monitoring turned off (My AV software updates on its own). The security center is great for the average Joe who does not want to be bothered looking after all of this stuff. For the power user it is basically useless... At this point MS is gathering nothing about your browsing.