Microsoft SBS Newsletter gives some insight on SP1

We were able to get some insight on the forthcoming SBS SP1 and also regarding ISA 2004 through a new internal SBS Microsoft newsletter that we were graciously allowed to see. This is pretty much what we have been hearing as of late, SP1 will come out Q1 2005 and don't install ISA 2004 on SBS 2003 just yet. The only thing that caught my eye was that the SP won't be bundled as a single download but will be a QFE (Quick Fix Engineering Download). That should be interesting, let's see how it works out. I think this is definitely one SP where the CD's will be vital to have due to the amount of information. Here's the details:

SBS SP1 Update

In the last field conference call, Guy Haycock presented an update on SBS SP1. Key highlights include the following:
Goals: Refresh SBS 2003 with latest service packs/updates, focusing on OEMs and System Builders; 2) Update SBS 2003 tools to address application compatibility and customer satisfaction issues.
Non-Goals: We will not combine all bundled service packs and updates into a single download. We will provide the SBS 2003 updates as a QFE package. This is not a broad re-launch.
Timing: SBS SP1 timing is dependent on Windows Server SP1 and is tentatively set for Q1 CY05.

ISA 2004 Availability
There have been many inquiries regarding the availability of ISA 2004 for SBS 2003 Premium customers. Below is a summary of the situation.
We will make ISA 2004 available to SBS 2003 Premium customers, but not until SBS SP1 is released (tentatively Q1 CY05 – this date is dependent on Windows Server SP1).
We will not charge SBS 2003 Premium customers for ISA 2004; however, they will need to pay a media and fulfillment fee in order to receive ISA 2004.
Since ISA 2004 launched in mid-July (is available now), but is not yet available in SBS 2003, customers/partners may inquire about obtaining it before SBS SP1.
Please strongly recommend that customers/partners wait for SBS SP1 (not purchase ISA 2004). There are two main reasons: 1) If they install ISA 2004 (outside of SBS SP1), it will break many of the SBS 2003 wizards today; 2) They would have to buy an ISA 2004 license (expensive); whereas they would receive it for free with SBS SP1.