Why Windows XP SP2b and Windows Server 2003 SP2a?

Microsoft made some changes to Microsoft Windows desktop operating system software related to the way in which Internet Explorer (IE) handles some web pages (IE Active X update, KB912945). This update to Internet Explorer technology relates to Microsoft's involvement with the Eolas Technologies and the Regents of the University of California v. Microsoft patent case (Eolas v. Microsoft).

Microsoft has made new end item part numbers for affected Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, and Small Business Server 2003 products to implement the Internet Explorer Update. Client SKUs include Starter Edition, Home Edition, Professional, Tablet PC Edition, and Media Center Edition.

View the IE Active X update description, and the MSDN article at Activating ActiveX for more information on the changes.

Thanks,

Victor Mux