New Version of Microsoft ActiveSync Available

Microsoft has posted on its web site a new version of its ActiveSync synchronization software for Windows Mobile devices. ActiveSync version 4.5 offers stability and performance improvements over the previous version, as well as some feature enhancements sure to please many IT professionals.

Some of the of new features in ActiveSync 4.5 include:

• Faster file transfer speed and photo sync for Windows Mobile 5.0 powered devices.
• Direct Push Technology, local device wipe, and certificate powered authentication to Microsoft Exchange for users with Microsoft Exchange 2003 Service Pack 2 and the Messaging and Security Feature Pack for Windows Mobile 5.0

However, as with many Microsoft products, there are some items no longer supported in this latest release of ActiveSync. Some of the features removed and system requirements changed in ActiveSync 4.5 include:

• Dropping of support for Microsoft Outlook 2000. Microsoft recommends that users upgrade to Outlook 2003.
• Remote PC syncing via WiFi or LAN removed due to Enterprise customer feedback around security issues.
• Can no longer convert database files for use on Windows Mobile 5 devices.
• Cannot use ActiveSync to convert PC fonts for use on your Windows Mobile 5 device.

ActiveSync 4.5 can be installed on most Windows XP machines. Microsoft Office XP or Microsoft Office 2003 are also required to use ActiveSync.

Download version 4.5 of ActiveSync from the Microsoft website.