Posted on 03/14/2010 3:54:16 PM PDT by papasmurf
It installs the ability to have MS’ server query your machine for illegal software. But, remember, this is MS.
The big question most have, including myself, is, if I already activated my copy, why would I want to allow them into my computer at will?
If it detects a “tampered” file, activation “error”, or activation exploit, it will cripple your machine and direct you to call MS for further instructions.
If one were to have an activation error, which I have had with XP, you would not be activated and you would receive a message to call MS to remedy the error. So, why do I need a backdoor for MS to come in with, after I’ve already had a successful activation?
As for “tampered” with files and “exploits”, that’s what Security Essentials says it does already, so no need to allow MS carte blanche access.
In essence, this will allow MS to enter your PC, without your knowing or consent, and give them the power to shut your PC down. One can only imagine what else they will do, as they would now have the ability to do anything they desire.
Are there any features that won't install if we don't have this update?
Hey, -all- of Windows is a backdoor for Microsoft. Do you think this is the first and only time your copy of Windows has "phoned home"? Sent information about your computer to Redmond Central? Sent information about the programs you run and the data you access and the music you listen to and the videos you watch, to the Microsoft overlords? Don't be naive.
I use Windows 10 hours every day, also use Macs and Linux and BSD Unix. I don't generally prefer Windows but I use it because it gets certain jobs done that need to be done. I rather like Win7 and it works well for me.
I buy legit copies of Windows, and let WGA and WAT and all the rest of their spyware do their job, and consider it the cost of doing business in a Windows world.
Then when I want to work on a computer that doesn't piss me off, I use a Mac. When I want to work on a computer that doesn't keep secrets from me, I use a Linux box. When I want the best security available to a consumer, I use a BSD machine.
So I suppose I take Microsoft's high-handed crap in stride. I've been computing since 1970 (Eng sims in Fortran) and building/programming/running microcomputers since 1976 when young Billy Gates whined to the Computer Club and threatened to crush hobbyists, and so this latest stuff is unsurprising. Color me jaded. :)
Is there a way to have your firewall keep MS from “phoning home?”
I have no specific answer to your question, but in general I think you could probably use ZoneAlarm or something like that to cut off all network access, both incoming and outgoing, then only allow firefox outgoing. There would be no point in allowing IE outgoing since that it controlled by MS. Also no guarantee that MS can’t bypass zonealarm or hijack firefox.
Chances are even if did block the port, it would block all updates, legitimate or not. And with the swiss cheese OS that could be fatal.
I just “uninstalled” the update. Does that mean it’s really gone?
A hardwared firewall, yes. I doubt you can keep a windows computer from attempting to contact microsoft.
What I did on my home router for quite some time was blackhole every IP address range microsoft owns.
Worked pretty well.
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