Vista update warning

Typical.

"Microsoft is warning Windows Vista users that a forthcoming service pack for the operating system may stop some third-party programs working.

The software giant has released a list of programs that may be broken by the SP1 update for Vista.

Most of the software hit by the upgrade are security programs that prevent Windows users falling prey to viruses, trojans and booby-trapped webpages.

The Windows Vista update will be released to the public in mid-March." -- bbc.co.uk

So not only will the forthcoming Vista update break some 3rd party software, but six of the twelve programs listed protect against viruses and malware. Geee, why not break a few firewall programs, too? That way Microsoft can chop off all three components of home computer security.

These aren't software from no name companies, either; the list includes security software from Zone Alarm and Trend Micro.

Programs hit by Vista SP1:

• BitDefender AV
• Fujitsu Shock Sensor
• Jiangmin KV Antivirus 10
• Jiangmin KV Antivirus 2008
• Trend Micro Internet Security
• Zone Alarm Security Suite
• Iron Speed Designer
• Xheo Licensing
• Free Allegiance
• NYT Reader
• Rising Personal Firewall
• Novell ZCM Agent

Technically, Microsoft may not be obligated to make sure Vista is compatible - that's up to the 3rd parties - but my guess is that a large number of Vista users affected will blame Microsoft, rightly or wrongly. I hope Microsoft is making every effort to help 3rd parties update their own software to reflect changes with Vista SP1.