WinXP - Windows XP SP3

WinXP SP3 has been released and available through Win Updates, but I highly suggest you do not use Updates for SP3.

It is much better to manually install SP3 from your hard drive (saved file) or (better) an installer CD. This is because there is much you should be doing BEFORE installing SP3, which I will discuss in a bit.

Here are download sources for two versions of SP3:

• Installation Package Download, install EXE


• CD Image File (ISO) Download, to make an Installer CD

I recommend the ISO SP3 Installer image because you write the ISO to a CD and you get an Autorun installer that you can use later if you have to reinstall SP3.

** PRE-INSTALL STEPS:

1. From the Command Prompt, run CHKDSK C: /F (will require reboot)


2. Optimize/Defrag C:


3. Run a Full virus scan (all hard drives)


4. Backup C:


5. Disable AntiVirus Autoprotect (unplug network connection or go offline first)


6. Unload/exit any Taskbar Tray applications that may interfere with SP3 installation

Now install SP3. When done you will be prompted to reboot.


** POST-INSTALL STEPS:

1. Reboot at least once after reaching the desktop


2. Right-click My Computer, select Properties, and you should see "Service Pack 3"


3. From the Command Prompt, run CHKDSK C: /F again


4. Optimize/Defrag C: (it will need it badly)


5. Run Win Updates