Windows XP Upgrade Blocks Pop-Ups

REDMOND, Wash. — Microsoft Corp. expects that nearly 100 million PCs in the next two months will be downloaded with the software giant’s long-awaited upgrade to its Windows XP operating system.

The software upgrade called Service Pack 2, makes additions to Windows XP designed to fortify the operating system against a range of worms, viruses, scams and other threats.

SP2, weighing in at 265 megabytes, adds protection in three central areas — by turning on firewall software and other security features such as a pop-up ad blocker previously turned off by default; by adding controls for protecting against online assaults; and by adding windows and instructions that Microsoft says will make it easier for computer users to manage security features.

The new features could give big headaches to online adult companies that rely on pop-up advertisements and the like to reach target audiences.

Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft said SP2 also turns on a feature in Windows XP that enables the operating system to automatically seek and receive security patches from Microsoft's website. It offers a single window in which users can more easily monitor the security of their PCs.

Microsoft expects SP2 to create a security push like no other upgrade. In preparing SP2, Microsoft worked with a broad range of antivirus and security software makers, including Symantec Corp., Trend Micro and McAfee Inc.

But SP2 could interfere with specialized programs critical to business. Potential problems range from the new firewall blocking connections to the updated Internet Explorer not allowing helper programs to run without permission.

Microsoft warned developers and customers that XP2 might be incompatible with a number of third-party applications. More recently, Microsoft added admonitions about its own Microsoft Business Solutions CRM versions 1.0 and 1.2 and offered a patch for the applications.

SP2 offers other improvements as well, such as an updated Windows Media Player, better support for short-range wireless standard Bluetooth, and it simplifies setting up wireless Internet connections.

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Federal Appeals Court Vacates FTC 'Click to Cancel' Rule Pending Review

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit on Tuesday vacated the Federal Trade Commission’s “click-to-cancel” rule aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions, pending further review.

FSC Drops Florida AV Lawsuit in Wake of SCOTUS Decision

A U.S. district court judge granted on Tuesday a motion by Free Speech Coalition to dismiss the trade association’s lawsuit over Florida’s age verification law, a case that had been on hold pending the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on the constitutionality of state AV laws.

Ukrainian President Responds to Porn Legalization Petition

President Volodymyr Zelensky responded Tuesday to an OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine, stating that he would wait for the legislative process to play out “in accordance with established procedure.”

Only Tax Deductions Joins Pineapple Support as Sponsor

Adult industry accounting firm Only Tax Deductions has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Adult Empire Launches 'Conversations' Podcast Series

Adult Empire has launched a new official podcast series hosted by Nicole Chappelle and Charlie.

Sex Work CEO Launches 'Teams Plan' for AI Assistant

Sex Work CEO has introduced the new Teams Plan for its AI-powered, NSFW text generator, GPTease.

2025 XBIZ Amsterdam Website Launches With Call for Speakers

XBIZ is pleased to announce that the website for its annual European conference, XBIZ Amsterdam, is now live.

NC Governor Vetoes Bill Targeting Adult Industry, Override Possible

North Carolina Governor Josh Stein today vetoed a bill imposing new regulations that adult industry observers have warned could push adult websites and platforms to ban most adult creators and content.

25,000 Sign Petition to Legalize Pornography in Ukraine

An OnlyFans model’s petition to decriminalize pornography in Ukraine has amassed the 25,000 signatures required for official consideration by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

WannaCollab Joins Pineapple Support as Supporter-Level Sponsor

WannaCollab has joined the ranks of over 70 adult businesses and organizations committing funds and resources to Pineapple Support.

Show More