Microsoft retools e-mail software
Microsoft occasionally updates its software with so-called service packs that are intended to plug holes in software or otherwise offer small improvements on an ongoing basis.
New features for Outlook include additional views for the Web-based version of the e-mail program's calendar feature and support for pop-up window reminders for things like meetings. For network administrators, Microsoft has added new migration tools, improved communication with the company's Active Directory technology, and implemented better e-mail message tracking.
Microsoft competes with various Unix- and Linux-based e-mail systems, and with IBM's Lotus Notes software.
Microsoft Exchange has grown with accompanying use of the Redmond, Wash.-based company's Windows NT and 2000 server-based operating system, which leads in market share for PC-based server systems, according to technology researcher IDC.
Microsoft had problems earlier this year with security holes in its Exchange e-mail server, adding to a litany of woes involving hacker attacks and its Outlook e-mail client for PCs.
The new Service Pack 2 for Exchange server 2000 is available for download on Microsoft's Web site.