Range of new tools and information resources

Microsoft unveiled a range of new tools and information resources, representing a new and expanded phase of Microsoft_s Year 2000 compliance program, to help customers deal with the "Y2K bug." Also, to support those who use recent (but not the most current) versions of Microsoft products, the company said it will maintain Year 2000 compliance for many popular products such as Windows 95, Office 97 and SQL Server 6.5 through Jan. 1, 2001. This policy will apply even if newer versions become available. Meanwhile, all future Microsoft products will be Year 2000 compliant, the company said. Bob Herbold, executive vice resident and chief operating officer at Microsoft, reported that more than 1,600 Microsoft products have been tested to date, and that 93 percent are compliant or have minor Year 2000 issues. "Microsoft is committed to helping all of its customers prepare for Y2K," he said. "This testing, combined with our information resources and tools, will help customers prepare their Microsoft environments for the Year 2000 challenge."