Exchange 2003 SP2: Direct Push, Windows Mobile 5 and MSFP

Since doing my Exchange 2003 Webcast Series, I've had a fair share of questions regarding the Direct Push capability in Exchange Server 2003 SP2 and what is really required on the Windows Mobile 5 Device.

In order to take advantage of this capability (as well as Policy Enforcement), you do need a Windows Mobile 5 device with the Messaging and Security Feature Pack (MSFP) installed.  This then leads to the question of "How do I get the MSFP?"  That is indeed a great question as I did not make it very clear during my webcast and our website doesn't necessarily spell it out.  The MSFP did release back in November, but this was released to our OEM providers for them to integrate into the Windows Mobile 5 bits on their devices.  The MSFP is not available for public download so you cannot install these bits on your own.  If you already have a Windows Mobile 5 device, the odds are it does not have the MSFP bits.  To be sure, you should contact your mobile carrier and ask.  According to a T-Mobile person I spoke with last week, the MSFP bits should be incorporated into the Smart Phone (HTC Typhoon) and Pocket PC (HTC Wizard) bits in the April timeframe (no guarantee on time, but this was an estimate).  However, the above mentioned devices will be available for sale (with Windows Mobile 5) in mid February (if all goes well) without the MSFP bits.  There is a very good chance that a free flash update will be available for existing T-Mobile customers to flash their Typhoon or Wizard so the MSFP bits will be part of the build.

I hope this helps to clarify this topic.  Feel free to email me with questions.

Harold Wong
harold.wong@microsoft.com