Network Computing is part of the Informa Tech Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.

Researchers Outline Microsoft's Top 10 Challenges For 2004: Page 4 of 4

"The main security challenge [that Microsoft faces in 2004] is one of discipline: enforcing a consistent set of patch technologies and procedures across traditionally independent product groups," he said.

Such a move, said Directions, would go far toward solving problems users encounter with Microsoft's patches: some can be uninstalled, others can't; patches must be retrieved from multiple Web sites; and consumers relying on dial-up connections have a difficult time downloading megabytes worth of fixes.

Other challenges facing Microsoft in 2004, according to Directions' top 10 list, include keeping Linux at bay; rebuilding its partner network to stave off competitors to its .Net environment, such as Java; simplifying its overly-complicated licensing programs; and making good on its promise to improve its system management technology.