Windows XP Service Pack 2
Information
Microsoft's Service Pack 2 for Windows XP is available through Automatic Updates and the Windows Update site. Service Pack 2 is centered around improvements to security in Windows XP. Major changes include a popup blocker for Internet Explorer and an improved firewall that is enabled by default.
This site is intended to assist users and system administrators with making use of XP SP2's features while remaining compatibility with Stanford's administrative applications and Essential Stanford Software.
Configuration Tool
IT Services has developed an XP SP2 Configuration Tool which does the following:
- Configures the Internet Explorer popup blocker to not block popups necessary for the use of Stanford's web-based administrative applications such as Kronos,
Peoplesoft and Oracle Financials.
- Configures Internet Explorer's cache settings to check for a new version of the page at every visit.
Those who use Stanford's administrative systems should download and run this utility after upgrading to XP SP2.
Issues with Administrative Applications
The popup blocker integrated into Internet Explorer with XP SP2 will cause problems with many web based applications including Kronos, Peoplesoft. and Oracle Financials. Users can configure the popup blocker to allow these popups for Stanford sites by running the XP SP2 Configuration Tool or by configuring the popup blocker manually.
Issues with Essential Stanford Software
Testing has not revealed any major incompatibilities between XP SP2 and our Essential Stanford Software. Some minor issues that have been identified are as follows:
- Bigfix: In order for Bigfix to function properly from
behind a firewall UDP port 52311 must be opened. The Bigfix installer should
open this port for you but users can also follow our instructions
for manually
configuring the Windows Firewall.
