Free Windows XP update improves security of private and public WiFi networks

Microsoft has beefed up the security of Windows XP's wireless connections as a free update to Service Pack 2. As well as making it easier to connect to wireless hotspots, Microsoft says it has now added support for WiFi Protected Access 2 (WPA2) - said to be the highest level of standard wireless security currently available. The move is driven by the requirements of US government and other security conscious organisations for improved security within WiFi networks. ...more

Get the security message

Instant messaging applications are climbing the corporate agenda, but is the technology a disaster waiting to happen? Instant messaging has moved from the bedroom to the boardroom, as enterprises realise there are huge benefits in the workplace. But how many users consider security threats? Not many, judging by the users we spoke to. Yet even the companies that developed the world's most popular IM software have admitted the communication medium carries security threats that could outstrip those associated with email. ...more

The highest quality TV (signal) yet seen on a PC

Graphics card manufacturer 3dfx has released details of its new Voodoo TV FM product. Apparently, the Voodoo TV FM will introduce solid-state "tuner on a chip" technology to the PC, turning the humble grey box into a multi-tasking appliance. The Voodoo TV FM is the first of 3dfx's new range and will retail at ?99. ...more

Philips boosts Brilliance monitor range

New 23-inch widescreen, 19-inch and 17-inch models have been added to the Philips Brilliance range of monitors. To be precise, the new models are the 23-inch Brilliance 230W5 widescreen monitor, the 19-inch Brilliance 190P5 model, and two 17-inch models - the Brilliance P5 and B5. Details of the 230WS (pictured) include: a 23-inch panel, an ultra-high resolution display of 1,920x1,200 with a contrast ratio of 500:1, a viewing angle of 176 ?, and a brightness of 250nits. ...more

Surfing while you work

Which sites we visit at work is the focus of the latest survey on Net usage. Drawing on the Web behaviour of 8,300 individuals, the results come from an 'at work' panel set up by Jupiter MMXI, the Internet research company. The figures - for December 2001 - show search engines and news sites gaining the largest share of visitors, after portals and the sites of ISPs. ...more