Applying the patches and service packs issues by Microsoft Operating Systems are usually seen to be solutions to improve and safeguard Windows users but apparently there are issues surrounding the type of processor that is in use. If you use an Intel based processors, chances are you will not be having much trouble installing and rebooting your system. The real problem really exists when AMD processors are being used and much of this lies in the configuration.

Apparently, to be able to adhere towards the proper specifications, some tweaks have to be done to the main processor of AMD based units to accept the new add-ons and patches offered periodically. Normally, you will have issue after applying the updated patches and this becomes a cause for consideration on whether people should install the service packs or not.

Ideally, installing these patches is a good way to be able to safeguard your computer from threats around the web. But in some cases like this AMD issue, it would be best to be open to proper installation and compatibility issues. In short, as a user you should be able to research and find proper troubleshooting tips so that you can avoid messing

• Correct Disk Cleanup shortcut for Windows Vista 64-bit (Kristan M. Kenney)
• Solution for Updating the BIOS on Windows Vista x64 Machines (Robert McLaws)
• Steve Gibson's Securable
• Switch to Windows Vista 64-bit painlessly (HOW-TO)

• Backup and Restore in Windows Vista (James M. Fisher, MVP)
• Using Windows Vista System Restore (The How-To Geek)
  
• Windows Complete Backup and Restore (Microsoft)
• Windows Vista System Restore Guide (Bleeping Computer)
  

• Part 1: one machine at a time
• Part 2: Taming UAC
• Part 3: Top Troubleshooting Tools
• Part 4: Get smart about services
• Part 5: Faster, smarter search
  

• Avira Premium Security Suite (32 and 64 Bit)
  
• BitDefender family (32 and 64 Bit)
• Comodo (32 and 64 Bit) Not Recommended (Warning: Includes Ask Toolbar disguised as Surfsafe Toolbar!)
  
• EQSecure (32 Bit)
• Jetico Personal Firewall (32 and 64 Bit)
• PC Tools family (32 Bit)
  
• Privacyware solutions (32 and 64 Bit)
  
• ProSecurity (32 Bit)
• System Safety Monitor (32 Bit)
• Webroot Desktop Firewall (32 Bit) (Requires Registration)
• Zone Alarm (32 Bit) (Warning: Ask Toolbar Pre-checked for installation on Free Version, identified as ZoneAlarm Spy Blocker)
  

• AhnLan family (32 and 64 Bit)
• Avanquest System Suite (32 Bit)
  
• BullGuard family (32 and 64 Bit)
• CA Family (32 and 64 Bit)
• DefenseWall HIPS (32 Bit)
  
• ESET Smart Security (32 and 64 Bit)
• F-Secure

Yes, it's true - there's a new GP guide out there from Microsoft...

Check it out here - it's pretty cool!

<source>

There's a new version of FolderShare for Windows that's designed to help improve security and reliability. To bring as many people as possible up to date, we’ll start prompting users to upgrade this week. When the time comes, you won't be able to sign in until you update. We understand this process may cause some inconvenience, so we strongly encourage you to get a head start and install the new version today.

Thanks for your patience as we get FolderShare into even better shape!

—The FolderShare team

Source: foldershareteam.spaces.live.com

Steve Martin sent out the announcement yesterday that the BizTalk Server line of products would be getting an R3 update during the first half of 2009. BizTalk Server 2006 R3 moves the BizTalk platform to the Windows Server 2008, SQL Server 2008, and .NET Framework 3.5 wave of releases. In addition, there are feature enhancements planned for:

• Supporting UDDI 3.0
• Improved integration and hosting with service-oriented applications
• Connectivity with RFID and mobile devices
• Enhanced interoperability for business protocols such as EDI and SWIFT

You can read the original announcement by Steve on BizTalk Server 2006 R3 for more details.