Before You Install Vista SP1, Make Sure Your Software's Ready

News Flash! Some Programs Don't Work With Vista SP1!

Surprise, surprise, surprise! Some programs don't like Windows Vista SP1.

Haven't We Seen This Before?

Actually, you shouldn't be surprised at all. This isn't the first time that a major operating system update has caused application woes. Remember the long list of major programs that stopped working when Windows XP SP2 rolled into town? KB884130 brings back memories.

Just the Facts, Please

Compared with the three dozen programs that needed updates or replacement when XP SP2 came on the scene, Vista SP1's list of problem apps is a lot shorter: only 12 total, and about half of them are security programs. Microsoft has a list - along with links to vendor websites - at KB935796. Here are some of the highlights.

Update Me, Please, I'm Blocked!

The following programs need updates from the vendor, and are blocked from running by SP1: learn more about blocking here:

• - BitDefender AV or Internet Security version 10
• - Fujitsu Shock Sensor 2.1.0.0
• - Jiangmin KV Antivirus 10 or 2008
• - Trend Micro Internet Security 2008
• - Zone Alarm Security Suite 7.1.078

Update Me, I Can't Run!

These programs aren't blocked by Vista SP1, but need updates because they can't run under SP1:

• - Iron Speed Designer 5.0.1
• - Xheo Licensing 3.1
• - Free Allegiance 2.1

Update Me, I Don't Run Very Well

These programs lose functionality under Vista SP1, and need updating to work properly:

• - NYT Reader 1
• - Rising Personal Firewall 2007
• - Novell ZCM Agent 10.01

It's still about three weeks until Vista SP1 will be available for download, so use the time to fix up any errant apps on your system. It's a pretty short list for most of us.

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If you've been waiting for SP1 to give Vista a try, now's the perfect time to bone up on Vista's new and improved features. Read Mark's book Maximum PC Microsoft Windows Vista Exposed, available from Amazon.com and other fine bookstores.