RSSTesters Invited for Windows XP SP2 Beta
By Nate Mook and David Worthington | Published November 21, 2003, 4:20 AM
Microsoft is gearing up to release a beta version of Windows XP Service Pack 2. An e-mail sent out Thursday invited testers to install and evaluate the pre-release code when it becomes available within the next several weeks.
The second Windows XP service pack is the first major upgrade to Microsoft's flagship operating system. The package is slated to include a variety of bug fixes, as well as new security features, improved patch distribution and updated Internet technologies.
"As one of our valued customers, we'd like to invite you to participate in the Windows XP SP2 Beta Program. Your participation is completely voluntary," the e-mail reads.
"Service Pack 2 Beta Program participants will preview Service Pack 2 software and have the opportunity to provide Microsoft with invaluable feedback as we continue work on this important release."
SP2 will incorporate all fixes and enhancements made to the operating system since its release in October 2001. A new version of Windows Update is said to make it easier for customers to keep their systems up to date.
Security takes center stage in the upgrade. According to Microsoft, an improved personal firewall, new memory protections to ward of worms and buffer overruns, support for new security-minded hardware technology, and new editions of Internet Explorer and Outlook Express are all planned for inclusion in SP2.
A public release of Windows XP SP2 is expected to ship by the third quarter of 2004.
At least when you beta test a Service Pack for Windows you get a full copy of it on CD at the end of the beta, or the chance to download it before the general release date after the beta is over.
I helped test office 2003 and only found a couple of bugs so I didn't get a full copy of office, just one of those Radios. I can't complain though, if I had been able to contribute more to the beta, then I might have been ticked if I all I got was the radio.
also am signed up to test the windows 9x update cd that was mentioned here a week or so back. that should work great for helping me to support the remaining few PCs that we have at work that do run windows 98.
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|Those radios make for a great re-gift for someone you really really hate.
Not that I'm complaining, I wouldn't mind getting nothing, but those radios are about the the cheapest thing I've ever layed my eyes upon.
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|I was starting to get worried, as I generally get invited to all Windows-related beta tests...
But I finally got my e-mail today.
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|I remember MS saying that SP2 will allow more than one user on the PC at a time (probably just two) which would be useful for me - when I access my computer through Remote Desktop, and my girlfriend is using it at the same time typing an essay etc.. Also useful for any rich guys that have a smart display. So is this in SP2??
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|I heard that they removed this from SP2 and it's to be released at a later date...
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|...you could be an msdn registered user if you're an MCSD (or your business is a certified Microsoft testing center). This is not a public beta--you must be an MCSD or be a Microsoft Certified tester to download this, though I'm sure someone will leak this beta to the public...
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|please...? I'm on the betaplace since anytime but the problem only is to become the guestID for the first to come in. Than I fill out the survay and good is
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|The article doesnt specify a place to sign up for beta testing.
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|Maybe because there isn't one? The email was just welcoming users. Not inviting them to apply.
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|You have to be selected my microsoft, like me!, well achereley you have to sign up to betaplace.
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|You cant sign up for this. You need to already be a betaplace.com member and an active tester, as once you log in, the option to test SP2 is there (which is also stated in the email us testers received)
To accept this invitation please visit BetaPlace at and then follow the below instructions:
1. Sign In with your Passport ID
2. Click 'Windows XP-SP2'
3. Click 'Yes, I Would Like to Participate!'
4. Fill out the questionnaire and click 'Submit'
I dont think M$ are accepting new beta testers to this program
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|I got an e-mail, but when I logon to betaplace it says "If you have received an email welcoming you to a program and you have reached this screen, please wait 24 hours and try again."
It's been more than 24 hours since I got the e-mail...
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|please give me the guestID
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|Hmmm, that beta ID 'Windows XP-SP2' doesn't seem to be working.
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|Lol im a beta place tester but i never got invited to it.. haha and i just tested office and server2003
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|I would like to be a beta tester. I am home alot taking care of my grandfather with Parkinsons so it leaves me a lot of time to test new beta software products and updates.
Thank You,
Steven R. Willis
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|but doncha know? they always drop crappy testers. :)
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|The sizes of the test groups differ. The SP betas are probably not as extensive as the Windows programs. Did you test WinXp? I think they invite testers from the original program, I have been invited to both SP1 and SP2 as well as other WinXP related betas in between.
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|I too would love to beta test Windows XP SP2 but I'm unsure as to how to sign up. Any information would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.
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|i can not find how to dow it
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|I got the email over a week ago, but the website is still saying "Place wait 24 hours and log-in again". I am wondering if it will ever change! Perhaps this is MS's way of dropping testers...
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|hi
how do you sign up for it and where do you go to get it
hope some can help
yours
alancharity
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