Overview
Desktop messages are presented in a variety ways according to operating system. The following table offers an overview to show major distinctions, followed by some categorized frequently asked questions.
Desktop Messaging Overview| Message Title | Brand | Operating System | Status |
|---|
| Updates from HP | HP Pavilion | Windows 98, ME, XP | Service retired, no longer supported. HP recommends that the service be removed using the Add/Remove Programs feature in Control Panel. See Can I uninstall the messaging service?
|
HP Connections XP
Compaq Connections XP | HP Pavilion
Compaq Presario | Windows XP | Subscribers may upgrade to HP Connections XP
and Compaq Connections XP
--
download the upgrade
now, then click Run
to install it. Supported in the United States only. |
HP Connections
Compaq Connections | HP Pavilion
Compaq Presario | Windows Vista | Service retired, no longer supported. HP recommends that the service be removed using the Add/Remove Programs feature in Control Panel. See Can I uninstall the messaging service?
|
Communications and Privacy
General
What is desktop messaging?
Desktop messaging is a messaging service that automatically sends you support information, tips, ideas, and special offers from HP and our partners, especially designed for HP and Compaq desktop computer owners.
How does desktop messaging work?
Desktop messages automatically arrive when you are connected to the Internet. Messages will appear on your desktop. Subscribers typically receive 1 to 2 messages per month.
How do I receive desktop messages?
When you are connected to the Internet, the messaging service automatically checks for new messages and delivers them to your computer via RSS feeds, with no interruption to your Internet experience.
Is Updates from HP the same as HP Update?
No, these are completely different from each other.
HP Update
(initially named
HP Software Update
) is a tool that allows HP to refresh your computer so it always has the latest versions of the software that it originally shipped with. See the HP support document,
Using HP Update
(in English) for information about this tool.
Updates from HP
was a messaging service that provided timely information about how to use your computer for maximum productivity, and to notify you of select offers especially qualified for your computer. The
Updates from HP
messaging service is no longer in use.
| NOTE: | Some Internet user forums incorrectly use the terms "Updates from HP" and "HP Update" interchangeably, and may further confuse their distinction by referring to them as the “Updater.” |
Technical Information
Does the messaging service slow down my Internet connection when it downloads messages to my computer?
No. The messaging service will only use idle resources without interrupting or affecting your Internet browsing experience.
What operating systems does the messaging service support?
Microsoft Windows XP (for HP Connections XP
and Compaq Connections XP
).
What are the minimum system requirements for the messaging service?
- Microsoft Windows XP
- Microsoft Internet Explorer 2.0 or higher
- Intel Pentium processor or equivalent
- 16-MB memory
- 30-MB available hard disk space
- Connection to the Internet at 14.4-kbps or higher
Does the messaging service run as a background application on my PC?
Yes, the messaging service runs as a background application. It is identified in Windows Task Manager as HP Connections XP
or Compaq Connections XP
. However, the service uses only minimal system resources to check for new messages and deliver them.
Communications and Privacy
Does HP receive information about how I use their messaging service?
HP collects aggregate information about how subscribers are interacting with the messaging service. Information collected is not tracked to an individual subscriber. The service monitors activity, such as links clicked, for each message displayed and sends this information back to HP via the messaging servers. HP uses this information to improve the performance, relevance, and overall satisfaction of the messaging service.
Does the messaging service use or collect any personally identifiable information?
No. HP respects your privacy and is committed to protecting it. The messaging service does not collect, use, or store any personal information such as name, address, phone number, email address, or IP address. In some instances, such as with anonymous surveys, non-personal data such as model number is collected and analyzed in aggregate in order to help us improve the user experience, system usability, and content. The rules to deliver messages are based on the configuration of your computer at the time of purchase. The rules are generally based on product classifications such as PC model number or product number. The service can deliver messages based on serial number, however it does not tie serial numbers to product registration data (personal data), and it does not collect or store serial number data. The rules do not access or recognize any of your personal data or applications you have installed after purchasing your computer. Occasionally, you may be prompted to enter additional data which can be added to the list of rules used to deliver messages. Entry of such data is optional and HP will disclose how the data may be used.
Where can I find HP’s privacy statement?
Configuration
How can I choose the type of content I want to receive?
From within an HP Connections XP
or Compaq Connections XP
message, click Help
, then see Content Options
.
The following content options are available:
Can I deactivate the messaging service?
Yes. You have the ability to deactivate the service within each message you receive. From within an HP Connections XP
or Compaq Connections XP
message, click Help
, then see Deactivate
.
Can I uninstall the messaging service?
Yes. In the Microsoft Windows Control Panel
, double-click the Add/Remove Programs
icon. Look for HP Connections XP, or Updates from HP
if you have an HP Pavilion desktop computer, or Compaq Connections XP, or Compaq Connections
if you have a Compaq Presario desktop computer in the list of programs, and then click Remove/Uninstall
.
| CAUTION: | Take care not to uninstall the program HP Update
(initially named HP Software Update
). |
Common Problems
Should I accept a digital certificate I’ve received referencing HP and BackWeb technology? What if the expiration date of the certificate is in the past?
Digital certificates referencing HP and BackWeb may occasionally appear on your desktop if you still have an older messaging service installed. HP recommends that you uninstall the older non-supported services using the Add/Remove Programs utility in Microsoft Windows Control Panel. The expiration date on a digital certificate may be a past date, such as May 17, 2002 or March 11, 2000.
| NOTE: | One or more of the links above will take you outside the Hewlett-Packard Web site. HP does not control and is not responsible for information outside the HP Web site. |
