What's Different Btwn XP SP2 for Multiple PCs and for Single PCs

[rbr]

Apparently it is impossible to download the XP SP2 version for single
computers -- you either have to use automatic updates or order a CD.

Is this correct?

I am able to download XP SP2 for "IT Professionals and developers" who need
to "deploy it to multiple computers over a network."

Well, that's not exactly what I want. I am an IT professional. And I do
have to deploy it to multiple computers. But I do not necessarily want to
deploy it "over a network." What I really want to do is just walk the CD
from PC to PC and install it off the CD.

Probably I am overthinking this. But what is the difference between the two
versions (Besides about 200 MB)?

And if I download the monster version, will I be able to install it on a
single PC?

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

"IT Professionals and developers"
That is what you want.
Microsoft prefers single computer users to use the Express Installation to
save bandwidth.
But if you need SP-2 on CD, the Network Installation is what you want.
You do not need a network, just insert the CD and follow the prompts to
install SP-2.
Once installed, there is no difference between Network or Express
Installation.

Also see:
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar/spackins.htm

 

[Sleepless in Seattle]

Download monster version, burn to CD and install on any XP machine you wish.

 

[Gordon]

Apparently it is impossible to download the XP SP2 version for single
computers -- you either have to use automatic updates or order a CD.

Is this correct?

I am able to download XP SP2 for "IT Professionals and developers" who need
to "deploy it to multiple computers over a network."

Well, that's not exactly what I want. I am an IT professional. And I do
have to deploy it to multiple computers. But I do not necessarily want to
deploy it "over a network." What I really want to do is just walk the CD
from PC to PC and install it off the CD.

Probably I am overthinking this. But what is the difference between the two
versions (Besides about 200 MB)?

And if I download the monster version, will I be able to install it on a
single PC?

<sigh> Download the full version, burn to a CD and then you can install
it on as many machines as you want to.
<sigh> and I'm NOT an "IT Professional"........

 

[Ken Blake]

In

Apparently it is impossible to download the XP SP2 version for
single
computers -- you either have to use automatic updates or order
a CD.

Is this correct?

No, it's not.

I am able to download XP SP2 for "IT Professionals and
developers"
who need to "deploy it to multiple computers over a network."

That version is fine for a single computer without a network.

Well, that's not exactly what I want. I am an IT professional.
And
I do have to deploy it to multiple computers. But I do not
necessarily want to deploy it "over a network." What I really
want
to do is just walk the CD from PC to PC and install it off the
CD.

That's fine, and the CD can be used to do that. It's poorly
named.

Probably I am overthinking this. But what is the difference
between
the two versions (Besides about 200 MB)?

The only difference is that the Network version is complete,
rather than tailored for your particular computer. It's bigger
because it contains some options you don't need (but they don't
hurt you).

And if I download the monster version, will I be able to
install it
on a single PC?

Yes, absolutely.

 

[Alan]

Tell me where you "IT professionally."

I'll make sure I stay 1,000 miles away from that place.

Alan

 

[Gordon]

Tell me where you "IT professionally."

I'll make sure I stay 1,000 miles away from that place.

Alan

LOL!

 

[Alex Nichol]

Apparently it is impossible to download the XP SP2 version for single
computers -- you either have to use automatic updates or order a CD.

Is this correct?

No. At
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/sp2predl.mspx

Use 'Download and Deploy to Multiple machines', and ignore reference to
Multiple, or Network. That is what comes on the CD - a 266MB download
though