It is tradition for Microsoft to release updates via Automatic Update, including major refreshes such as service packs, following their introduction on Windows Updates and the Download Center. This means that Windows machines with AU enabled would automatically detect and deploy a range of updates distributed by the Redmond giant. At the same time, Microsoft is offering the necessary tools for users to block the delivery of service packs through AU. As of May 27, 2008, this is only valid for Windows Vista SP1 and Windows XP SP3, as far as the Windows operating systems are concerned.

In order to enable consumers, especially in the corporate environments, to get ready for the implementation of the next stage in the evolution of Windows platforms, the Windows Service Pack Blocker Tool permits the systems to ignore service packs on AU for up to a year. The transition period is over for Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 2.

"It has been a little over a year since we released Windows Server 2003 SP2. When we release a Service Pack at Microsoft, we want to make sure that IT professionals and system administrators have ample time to assess the service pack and choose when to deploy it," informed Ward Ralston, Windows Server division Senior Technical Product Manager. "As with other service packs, we offered support for Windows Server 2003 SP2 within the Windows Service Pack Blocker Toolkit. This allowed administrators to block the automatic deployment of Windows Server 2003 SP2 for a period of one year."

The only service packs that can be blocked at this point in time with the Windows Service Pack Blocker are Vista SP1 and XP SP3. This will continue to be the case for up to 12 months since the general availability date for each service pack, namely from March 18, 2008 for Vista SP1, and May 6, 2008 for XP SP3.

"Organizations should be aware that over the next month, support for Windows Server 2003 SP2 within the blocker tool will be phased out Windows Server 2003 SP2 will then be automatically offered, downloaded and/or installed (depending on user or administrator settings) through standard mechanisms including Windows Update and Automatic Update," Ralston added.

The Windows Service Pack Blocker Tool Kit is available for download here.