Are you releasing a new version of Works 8 because the current version isn’t secure?
No, there have not been any Works security breaches to date. Rather, the enhancements made to Works 8 are part of Microsoft’s continuing goal of making PCs more resilient in the face of evolving software security threats. Ensuring that you have the best overall experience with our software is a top priority.

What has been done to make sure Works 8 is more secure?
In response to our own rigorous preemptive testing and security processes, we have made updates to the architecture of the software itself. However, you should not notice anything different in your navigation and everyday use of the product.

Are there any new features or enhancements to Works?
While there are no new features in the enhanced Works edition, the security upgrades we’ve made will allow you to enjoy a safer, more private and more reliable computing experience. Now your essential Works productivity tools such as the Works word processor, spreadsheet, database and calendar are more protected than ever before, providing you a better overall user experience.

Have you removed any features from Works?
We’ve removed both Microsoft Draw (which enabled Works users to produce their own drawings or edit existing ones) and Word Art (which allowed users to put artistic text into their documents) from the Works product. These features were removed because they are older applications that we no longer support. If you want similar functionality to Microsoft Draw, you can access Microsoft Paint from your Windows accessories.

Which versions of Works are eligible for a free security upgrade?
If you are currently using one of the Works products outlined below, you qualify to receive the Works 8 update:

Product	Last date you may receive free upgrade:
Works 8	1/12/2010
Works Suite 2005	4/8/2008

How do I know if I need to upgrade my version of Works?
Find out whether you need an upgrade by determining which Works version you have. Simply start the Works Task Launcher and click on the Help button. If the last option in the Help menu reads, "About Microsoft Works Suite 2004" you are eligible to upgrade. If the last option reads, "About Microsoft Works" then select that option. In the "About Microsoft Works" dialog look for the version number, if the version is 8.0 then you are eligible to upgrade. If it displays Works 8.5, you have the most current version of the software.

Is it mandatory that I upgrade to the new version?
No―you are not required to upgrade to the enhanced version of Works. However, just as we strongly recommend consumers continue to upload the latest patches, anti-virus software and firewall updates to their PC, we highly urge you to upgrade to the latest version of Works for a safer, more private and more reliable computing experience.

Can I purchase the new Works 8 at my retailer?
Yes. The new version of Works 8, which includes the security update, will be broadly available at retail at the beginning of November 2005.

How can I get the new Works product—is it available via CD or download?
If you are using any of the Works versions listed under question 5 above, you can download the upgrade directly or to have an upgrade CD shipped to your home for the cost of shipping and handling.

How do I find the Product Identification Number (PID) required to order the upgrade?
The Product Identification Number (PID) can be located in the Help, About Microsoft Works.