Don't Call It the Y2K Update!

Kenn's
Tech
Notes

19990601: Don't Call It the Y2K Update!

June/1999
Tech Note #1

Don't call it the Y2K Update! The updates distributed to techs for installation in May and June of 1999 included numerous components. Although it included some Y2K-related elements, Y2K was not the only issue addressed nor should those updates be considered a complete Y2K solution. The major issues addressed in the update package included anti-virus software, automated web browser configuration for proxy and firewall requirements, revised password lists to address security concerns, and school-based network diagnostics, as well as operating system Y2K requirements.

The Y2K components address Year 2000 rollover issues and operating system requirements only. These operating system Y2K updates have almost all been revised (by Microsoft) since distribution of the CDs. So, in point of fact, the Y2K component of the Spring 1999 Updates is already obsolete.

The Anti-Virus/Proxy-Firewall/Security/Network-Diagnostic/Y2K Updates were distributed in three packages, one for each operating system. In each package, there was only one routine to run, but several different components were installed or updated, as shown below.

Windows NT Server Prep Update Diskette
  • Automatic Web Proxy Update *
  • NT Account Updates
  • School Network Diagnostic Routine
  • Time Service (Y2K)
  • Windows NT Service Packs (Y2K) *
  • Windows 98 Year 2000 Update for distribution to workstations (Y2K) **
  • Anti-Virus Installers for distribution to workstations (see below)**
  • Works 4.5a Update for distribution to workstations (Y2K)

Anti-Virus Installer-Updater for Windows 9x
  • Anti-Virus Software, Engine and DAT Update **
  • Automatic Web Proxy Update *
  • Updated LockIt95 Password
  • BIOS Patch (Y2K)
  • Updated File Manager and Command Interpreter for Windows 95 (Y2K) **

Anti-Virus Installer-Updater for Windows 3.1
  • Anti-Virus Software, Engine and DAT Update **
  • Automatic Web Proxy Update *
  • Updated Quick Lock/ACE Windows Lock Password
  • BIOS Patch (Y2K)
  • Updated File Managers for Windows 3.1 and Windows for Workgroups 3.11 (Y2K)

All three packages can be downloaded from the shop ftp site. However, the Windows NT package requires the WSD#1 Software Backup CDs issue 16 or newer, as well. (All components may be derived entirely from the CDs.)

* The components designated with a single asterisk will have recommended updates before the end of 1999.
** The components designated with a double asterisk will have required updates before the end of 1999.
See Tech Note #2 for more information.

DISCLAIMER: This document is intended for the reference of computer support personnel within Winnipeg School Division No. 1. There is no warranty or liability if procedures recommended here have an adverse affect on any systems. Use them at your own risk. Any trademarks mentioned are the property of their owners, none of whom have certified any information provided here. Opinions expressed here are personal only and do not represent the policy of Winnipeg School Division No. 1 or any other organization anywhere.


Got a Tech Note to share? Submissions are most welcome! [Click here.]
To return to the Tech Notes home page, click here.
To download a copy of all the June/1999 Tech Notes in Rich Text Format, click here.
Click here to visit the Information "Super-Cul-De-Sac". This page was updated
2001 June 9

This page hosted by
Get your own Free Homepage
Check out my neighbours here in Silicon Valley Peaks by clicking here.