Possible problems with latest MS security updates

[drummer]

I've been using ZoneAlarm Free firewall without a problem for some years now, even though I decided to dump the paid-for version once it became bloatware.  The only reason I install it is so I can keep an eye on outgoing connections and the only resource it uses is RAM; it doesn't even register on CPU activity.

Tried Comodo free firewall as so many people on this forum recommended it, but it just became a pedantic irritant of which I couldn't wait to get rid.

Anyhoo, if anyone else is running ZA Free, the trick is to install the latest version from Simon's link and when you've rebooted, install the MS patch and reboot again.  Working fine on this (and another) XP box.

As an heretical aside, I disabled Windows automatic updates when SP2 was released for XP Pro and only download stuff I regard as essential.  Thus far it's been the latest Windows Installer and...nothing else!  Only installed this patch to experiment as I use ZA Free.