Computer Support Network

With all the news in recent weeks about computer exploits and network vulnerabilities IT Computer Support of New York has started a program to assist businesses. Earlier this week we sent out a notice to our current clients offering our patching service. Patching may not seem like that big of deal, but the truth is that most businesses are running outdated servers and are in danger. Often the problem companies have with patching is that it can be a tedious procedure and if it works you are protected and don’t know you were ever in danger. The failure in this thinking is that if you are not patched and protected the damage you sustain can be crippling.

Another concern with patching is that it is not uncommon for a patch to react poorly with certain hardware configurations. For this reason it is important to have a backup in place before applying new system patches. If a business has multiple servers this can become a daunting project. ITCSNY hopes to simplify this by assuring that not only are the most current patches installed but that your systems are running with optimum performance.

While all patches are important some receive priority; such as is the case with the recent MS08-067. Prior to the patch, systems running Windows Server 2000, Windows XP and Windows 2003 were in serious danger. Microsoft released the update “out of band” (not on the regular Patch Tuesday) which speaks volumes of the threat the vulnerability posed. While not common this sort of occurrence does happen and if your server is not receiving regular attention then you are easy prey to vulnerabilities.

If you are interested in having ITCSNY handle your critical patching please contact us. ITCSNY also has a service available to install patches on a regular basis. This service schedules the application of critical updates shortly after the patches are issued and we will ensure that all updates are handled smoothly.

- Richard Keene
IT Computer Support of New York
Design and Optimization Department

Today Microsoft released a Critical patch for its Server Service Applications. The Microsoft Security Bulletin MS08-067 update resolves a vulnerability in the MS server service. The vulnerability makes it possible for a worm or Trojan to freely gain access to your systems. Microsoft has released this patch today “out of band” (not on the regular Patch Tuesday) which speaks volumes of the threat this vulnerability poses.

It is absolutely crucial that your network administrator or IT department installs the necessary patch as quickly as possible. Un-patched your system will be completely at the mercy of a custom built worm which could take down server, steal private information, or worse. It is also highly advisable that you patch your system from a reputable source, namely Microsoft. There have been isolated reports of people becoming infected by websites promising quick fixes. If in doubt contact your IT department and let them make the necessary updates.

The systems at the highest risk are Windows Server 2000, Windows XP and Windows 2003. Windows Vista requires authorization by default and thus is less vulnerable to a possible attack but should still be checked. If your business runs on any of these operating systems take the steps to patch your systems immediately.

- Richard Keene
IT Computer Support of New York
Design and Optimization Department