Microsoft will extend the security measures now found in its Windows XP operating system to Windows 2000 and the slimmer version of the OS used in handheld devices. Warren Barkley, Microsoft lead program manager for the Windows networking division, told attendees of the 802.11 West conference in Seattle on Monday to expect the enhanced security measures, called 802.1x, by August. This follows earlier announcements about implementing more security by spring 2002. About 150 companies and businesses have already signed up to test the new release, he said. Security has been one of the biggest concerns facing the growing market for Wi-Fi--inexpensive networks that allow for Net access and file sharing within a 300-foot radius. Anyone with a modem card, which costs as little as $50, can access the network, surf the Web or download e-mail within the area.
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