From the Dark Side--Microsoft Screw Up Remediation

Here's how M$ reponded yesterday to the destabilization of Windows ME by a security patch update issued from a November 1 security bulletin:

"Today, we received reports of problems with the Windows ME patch only. We immediately removed the Windows ME version while we Investigate the issue further.

The problem is that upnp.dll does not seem to be registered. This is the case when UPnP component is already installed (via Add/Remove Components) and the update is applied. Result is Explorer hangs and machine performance can be erratic. However, in the case where UPnP component is not installed, the update is applied, and then UPnP component is added, there seems to be no issues. Apps including IE work and Explorer is fine at each and every stage.

As soon as a new patch is available, a revised bulletin will be posted and announced.

The Windows 98 and XP patches are error free.

Microsoft deeply apologizes for any problems this has caused. We assure you that a thorough investigation is being conducted into the cause of this problem and steps are being taken to prevent it from happening again.

Remediation:
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Customers who are experiencing problems as a result of the Windows ME patch can go to the %windir%\system directory and run "regsvr32 upnp.dll" (no quotes). Reboot. Customers who are unable to register the upnp.dll should contact Microsoft Product Support Services for assistance. There is no charge for support calls associated with security patches."

Microsoft pulled the bad patch, provided an apology, described the problem, provided a remediation procedure that is incomprehensible to most people and provided charge-free support call assistance. The apology and charge-free service call are nice touches. Apple should do the same with problems like the iTunes 2 installer issue. At least Apple's response was immediate.