Microsoft plans to aggressively complete for business in the cloud computing arena–providing enterprise level computing/software products online through a project called Windows Azure. The company announced some of its pricing schematics for its online services which will allow customers to pay for such services on a metered basis. In a statement from its analysts , Microsoft said it plans to go “toe to toe with cloud providers.” Initial pricing schemes will target independent software developers. Developers will be able to use Azure to build new applications–with special incentives for web software designers and developers who sign up early.
Archive for July, 2009
Dell Predicts Low Tech Spending For Near Future
Saturday, July 18th, 2009
Dell leaders predict that technology spending will stay low and remain low for the near future due to companies holding out on computer purchases or vying for low cost options. Dell elaborated on this by saying that businesses are trying to extend the life of their existing tools and devices rather than upgrading. In terms of timeframe, Dell leaders believe that spending should pick up next year.
1.5 Billion Downloads–For App eCommerce, iTunes App Store Has Cause To Celebrate
Tuesday, July 14th, 2009
Since the iTunes App store launched, customers have downloaded more than 1.5 billion applications. Currently there are 65,000 applications from more than 77 countries in the store for the iPhone and iPod Touch.
RIM/BlackBerry, Google/Android, Nokia, and Verizon vigorously are attempting to enter the application game.
FCKEditor Update Fixes Concerns
Monday, July 13th, 2009
FCKEditor has released version 2.6.4.1 which addresses a vulnerability. Exploitation of this vulnerability in FCKEditor could potentially allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code. Coldfusion websites have been targeted particularly for this vulnerability.
Obama To Revamp Cyber Security For US
Sunday, July 12th, 2009
The cyber infrastructure of the United States is not up to par. On May 29th, 2009, President Obama presented the “Cyberspace Policy Review” which outlines a shift towards a more secure US cyber infrastructure and better defended computer networks. Recent headlines demonstrate a growing popular concern for insufficient cyber/network defenses. Rogue states and aggressive nations are starting to use the internet as a battlefield. Recent attacks on South Korea and US government and commercial interests are just lingering reminders of the urgency of new cyber policies.
The new doctrine will require a comprehensive overview of our current practices. The scope of the program will involve: threat reduction, deterrence, vulnerability reduction, incident response, international engagement, systems resiliency, and computer and network recovery policies, including computer network operations, information assurance, law enforcement, diplomacy, military, and intelligence missions as they relate to the security and stability of the global information and communications infrastructure.
Some directional shifts in policy:
- Anchor leadership at the Whitehouse to signify the importance of the role of the new figurehead. This will also help harmonize various departments of the government involved in computer and internet security–making them more flexible and participatory.
- Coherent unified policy guidance: clarify authorities, roles, and responsibilities for cybersecurity-related activities across the Federal government
- Promote cybersecurity risk awareness for all citizens
- …
Active-X Vulnerability For Microsoft Windows
Sunday, July 12th, 2009
US-CERT reported a issue (Security Advisory: 972890) on July 6th for an Active-X vulnerability for Microsoft Windows. Currently there is no solution to fix this vulnerability, but steps can be taken to reduce the risk of attack.
Exploitation of the vulnerability could cause the attacker to gain control of the victim’s computer. The systems effected are Microsoft Windows XP and Microsoft Windows Server 2003. This vulnerability is not a risk if you are using Windows Vista.
Animoto Gets More Funding and Goes Video and Even 3D
Sunday, July 12th, 2009
Animoto is a web service that turns your photo albums and music into a delicious slide show. It has become a true sensation. Basically with the push of a button your photos can be packaged up into a neat slideshow for family and friends. Their iPhone app has been a strong marketing tool for the service. The full video and photo service will launch shortly.
Massive Cyber Attacks Against US and South Korea
Thursday, July 9th, 2009
Government and commercial computer networks for the US and South Korea were hit with a massive attack–that set records for both countries in terms of duration and reach. The North Korean Government is suspected in the assault. Ultimately, the result of this attack was the temporary inaccessibility of websites for the general public, but the attack may have exposed vulnerabilities and security gaps in government and corporate defenses.
The US government and South Korean officials are looking into whether the attacks originated in North Korea. The attacks began on July 4th–coinciding with the North Korea missile launches and the sanctions imposed by the UN in reaction to those launches.
More information: US: Cyber security and online development
Mix-up at Google: Google Aps Standard Edition Is Still Free
Thursday, July 9th, 2009
Google accidentally removed any mention of the “Standard Edition” of Google Apps, leaving only reference to a paid edition ( 50 dollars per user per year ). TechCrunch immediately reported on the update with a humorous title “What The Hell Happened To The Free Version Of Google Apps?”. Google quickly responded to the article and described the mix-up–stating that they were experimenting with different landing page options for the Google Apps site and the wrong landing page was published. The Standard Edition is not going to be removed from Google’s product offering anytime soon.
Google Apps is a web-based collection of online applications like Gmail (Google email), Google calendar, Google Documents, Alerts, etc. that are pre-packaged and designed for business use specifically.



