Sixteen updates coming on Patch Tuesday

Microsoft has announced that there will be a total of sixteen updates on the upcoming Patch Tuesday. Five of the updates are labeled as Critical and designed to address security vulnerabilities that could leave Windows or Explorer open to remote code execution. Three updates are labeled as “Important” and will resolve vulnerabilities that leave Windows open to spoofing and unauthorized user privilege elevation, and a vulnerability that could expose Microsoft Office to remote code execution. The remaining eight updates are labeled as high priority but non-security related updates on Windows Update and Windows Server Update Service.

The updates apply to Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Server 2003, and Windows Server 2008, as well as Explorer. Users will need to restart their systems after installing the updates. Users can determine if they need the updates by accessing the company’s online Baseline Security Analyzer.

The company said it plans to host a Webcast on April 9 to address user questions about the updates. Microsoft has set up an online registration form for the event. Microsoft also said it plans to release an updated version of the Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool next week. The tool is designed to check for and remove malware programs such as Blaster, Sasser, and MyDoom. Be sure to update this upcoming Patch Tuesday to keep your computer safe and secure.