81 Critical Updates!

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Yes, the computer can be used while updating.

But the suggestion is about minimizing risk.
Updates change a variety of files and the less the computer is doing
the less likely some type of related problem will occur.

 

[Plato]

I've "inherited" a 2-year-old Dell Dimension 9100 with Windows XP Pro SP2
and Office 2003. Although Norton Internet Security is current, it appears

Best bet is to wipe the hard drive and intstall the version of the OS
you want to use totally fresh.

 

[PowerUser]

Actually if you look more closely at the updating algorithm (revamped
greatly post SP2) you'll find that most of the system changes are made after
the restart. The first stage involves downloading and copying updates to
system directories, rather than replacement of files, that is typically done
after a system reboot.

That's how MS is confident enough to say that you can continue using the
computer while updating.

 

[PowerUser]

There's this thing called Ryan's VM that can be used to create an updated
disc (XP SP2+updates) that has post SP2 updates integrated into it. I now
use that disc to start my clean/ upgrade installs.

Works perfectly fine here but don't whine since it's not coming from the MS
site.

 

[Guest]

That really depends on whether you have Dial-Up or Broadband.

On a dial-up connection, download the small ones first. Then install the
larger updates in batches.

The person you 'inherited' the computer from probably didn't install all
Windows Updates.

 

[Guest]

Come on!

Who said that you can't use a PC while updating it?

If that is the case, there must be a problem with the computer.

 

[PowerUser]

Yes, and try to get the redist packages for large stuff like Office service
packs, .NET framework 2 and 3 etc.

"BinaryConverted"