As expected, Microsoft today released two “important” patches in its March security update.
The two security bulletins address Windows and Office holes that could have remote code execution (RCE) implications. The March patch describes eight vulnerabilities that had not been previously disclosed.
Windows 7 customers that are running specific editions of the operating system now have available an update designed to kick up a notch the functionality of the platform’s media core. At the end of the past month, the Redmond company released the February 2010 Windows Media Center Cumulative Update for Windows 7.
Windows 7 can create a new Microsoft 6to4 adapter on every reboot, if the PC on which the operating system is installed is restarted while a Virtual WiFi is active. 6to4 adapters are components that Windows 7 users employ in order to ensure that IPv6 packets are correctly transmitted through an IPv4 network.
A computer on which Windows 7 has been deployed via a clean install can stop responding completely after the second restart. This issue also affects Windows Server 2008 R2, Microsoft informed, and is related to the 1394 bus driver. According to the Redmond company, machines running Windows 7 or Windows Server 2008 R2 can also stop responding when customers enable or install a 1394 device.
Microsoft has released a slew of nonsecurity updates on Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Center, the majority of which are for the latest versions of the client and server operating systems.
Microsoft has made available for download two updates designed to resolve issues related to data transfer failures in computers running Windows 7. According to the Redmond company, machines with Windows Server 2008 R2 can also be impacted by problems involving failed transfers of information over USB.
In the first half of January 2010, Microsoft released a single security bulletin impacting Windows. This month, that number has grown to 11. At the same time, the company’s latest versions of Windows will be impacted by the patches coming next week. No less than 3 Critical bulletins will plug security holes in both Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2. Windows 7 customers will need to deploy two additional patch packages rated as Important. Windows Vista users will have to deploy 3 Critical and 3 Important security bulletins, with Windows XP being targeted by no less than 5 Critical updates.