The Security Bulletin Search Page at http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/current.asp now includes a search function that will let you view all of the security patches available for a particular product according to the service packs you've installed on your system. This feature is by far the most frequently requested improvement we've received at secfdck@microsoft.com, and we're pleased to be able to deliver it.

This is just the latest step in the campaign to simplify the process of keeping systems secure, which we outlined in a recent security essay (http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/thrdwave.asp). The technological underpinning for the new search tool will enable a wealth of tools to be built that will make it easy to determine which patches you need, and to ensure that all of those patches are installed. Look for several exciting new tools and features in the near future that take advantage of this technology.

Details regarding the new search function, including planned enhancements to future versions, are available via the Frequently-Asked Questions page (http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/srchfaq.asp) on the Security Bulletin Search Page. Feedback regarding the new search function may be sent to secfdbck@microsoft.com.