Single Windows fix in Microsoft's January patch cycle
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This sole critical patch is a Windows-level fix and will affect every supported operating system -- even Windows 7. The vulnerability to be patched has remote code execution security implications.
Microsoft appears to be starting the new year on a light note after issuing bulky security releases in the latter months of 2009.
The January patch will match the current month's numerical designation, containing just one security bulletin. This sole critical patch is a Windows-level fix and will affect every supported operating system -- even Windows 7. The vulnerability to be patched has remote code execution security implications.
Microsoft emphasized the critical nature of this patch, particularly for Windows 2000 users.
"Customers with Windows 2000 systems will want to review and deploy this update as soon as possible," said Microsoft spokesman Jerry Bryant in an e-mailed statement. Bryant pointed to Security Advisory 977544, which indicates that it is the bug-heavy Server Message Block that is targeted for patching.
"We are still working on an update for the issue at this time," he added. "We are not aware of any active attacks using the exploit code that was made public for this vulnerability and continue to encourage customers to follow the guidance in the advisory."
Meanwhile, the single patch may require a restart, according to Microsoft's advance announcement.
Information technology pros wanting to get a jump on nonsecurity releases on Windows Update, Microsoft Update Services and Windows Server Update Services can check this KnowledgeBase article to peruse the list.
According to one security observer, the single patch that Microsoft plans to issue on Tuesday will represent just a brief respite. IT security pros can be assured of more to come.
"Let's hope that IT admins can savor this unusually reduced patch release as they kick off the new year and use the time to prepare for the numerous updates and patches that are still yet to come," said Paul Henry, security and forensic analyst at Lumension. IT admins "must prepare in order to resolve the current SMB denial-of-service problems, the MySQL zero-day rumors and the Adobe PDF issue, to name a few. Keep in mind that patches for these issues are around the corner."