The software giant will release six 'critical' and three 'important' patches next Tuesday

In a preview of Microsoft's "Patch Tuesday" this coming week, the software company said it will include nine patches, six of which it will rate as "critical". The remaining three are considered "important".

The patches will cover the Windows OS, the Office suite, Internet Explorer, Windows Media Player and Virtual PC. Of the six critical patches, one is shared between Windows and Office.

It is expected that one or both hot fixes to Windows Vista which were revealed this week, and which cover performance, reliability and compatibility, will also be included on Tuesday.

Copyright © 1995-2008 CNET Networks, Inc. All rights reserved
ZDNET is a registered service mark of CNET Networks, Inc. ZDNET Logo is a service mark of CNET Networks, Inc.