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OIT SUS FAQ

What does the file name OITSUS.reg mean?

The name reflects its function: Office of Information Technology Software Update Service Registry file.

What if I'm using wireless or a non-University of Minnesota ISP?

We're offering this service to University Internet account holders regardless of which ISP (Internet Service Provider) they use. However, since you must have a University of Minnesota IP to use it, you may need to use VPN: http://vpn.umn.edu

What about older versions of Windows?

Older systems - that is, Windows 95, 98, Windows NT, and Windows ME (Millennium) - cannot take advantage of this University of Minnesota update service.

Who runs this service?

This service is run by the Office of Information Technology and help is available from 1-HELP; select the Internet connection option. If you have suggestions or comments about this service, send e-mail to support@groupwise.umn.edu

To find out more technical information about the server we are running, see: http://www.susserver.com/

Departmental server administrators who want to run SUS for the systems they support should see: http://www.susserver.com/

Can servers use this service?

SUS also supports Windows 2000 Server and Windows 2000 Advanced Server. This service can be used on stand alone servers running minimal services, such as file and print. Advanced servers have different needs and must abide by more robust security procedures.

Where can I learn more about Windows update?

See the "About Windows Update" section at this Microsoft website: http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/en/default.asp )

What about customizing the settings?

If you must customize the settings, start by saving the registry file as instructed above. Whenever you edit the registry, be extremely careful. Mistakes can have serious adverse effects on any computer. More information about the settings is here: oitsus_customize.html

What does Microsoft say about software update services deployment?

More information about Microsoft's Update Services Deployment is available in this White Paper: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserversystem/sus/susdeployment.mspx

What Service Packs are needed to use SUS?
The Windows configuration you must have to use SUS varies:

  • Windows systems where SUS can be installed: Windows 2000, Service Pack 2 or above; Windows Server 2003.
  • Windows systems where a separate Automatic Update client installation is required: Windows 2000, Service Pack 2; Windows XP, no Service Pack.
  • Windows systems where automatic Update is already included: Windows 2000, Service Pack 3 or above; Windows XP, Service Pack 1 or above; Windows Server 2003.