Windows NT 4 support to come at price in '05
Microsoft reiterated on Friday that companies still using Windows NT Server 4 going into 2005 will have to sign up for a custom contract to get support.
Microsoft is offering up to two years of custom support to companies still using the OS when Microsoft ceases its extended support for the program at the end of 2004.
The company has decided to expand the for-free program to cover more security issues. Microsoft is now pledging to offer fixes for vulnerabilities rated either as "critical" or "important." Previously, the software maker had only committed to fixing critical flaws.
Those fixes will be available only to those that take part in the paid custom-support program, though Microsoft has said it would offer a patch publicly were there to be another virus on the order of Blaster.
"We will act to protect the integrity of the Internet," said Peter Houston, senior director of Windows serviceability.
At the same time, the company stressed that it is not changing the Dec. 31 end-of-life date for NT 4 Server. The desktop version of NT 4, NT 4 Workstation, reached end of life in June.
"My recommendation is that if you haven't done so already, begin your migrations immediately," Houston said. Those who need more time should take part in the custom service program, he said.
