MSAS is Beta 1 and Windows Defender is the next generation of the same
product and thus the Beta 2 tag.
AFAIK Microsoft has not stated how long MSAS will be updated, but I expect
until it expires in a few months.
There are other options for those unwilling to install SP-2 such as AdAware
and SpyBot S&D.
It is not so much Microsoft forgets those without SP-2, it is more Microsoft
is encouraging those without SP-2 to increase the security in their
computers.
SP-2 really has nothing to do with the speed of the computer so your
reference to "blinding speed" is confusing.
If your computer is fast enough for Windows XP, that is enough for SP-2.
The Service Pack Installation Checklist can help prevent installation
problems with SP-2:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spackins.htm
--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org
"Nancy" <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
> I discovered the answer is no. But WD requires SP2, which I don't have
> (and
> I'm not sure I want on my system, for various reasons). Does that mean I
> can't use WD? If so, how long will MSAS b1 be supported?
>
> MS tends to forget that some of us out here don't have brand new computers
> with blinding speed. My online time is limited. even downloading the WD
> file
> would take several minutes with my slow dial up connection.
>
> nancyeddy
>
>