Is WinXP Sp3 update necessary?

[Roy]

Hi group
I had been planning to install this version but due to problem with
some of my acquiantances using this update I had delayed it.
NOw I would like to ask, how important is this SP3 ?
I had already SP2 in my WinXP run PC and never had problems...
What are the ramifications of not updating my WinXP to the SP3
versions?
Would my drivers and other things conk out?
Somebody said to me that the SP3 is for improved windows security? Who
will be the ultimate beneficiary, is it the user or the Microsoft?
Supposing if your PC is installed with an iron clad antimalware
protection then what is the point of improved security in the presence
of Sp3.
I am keenly interested to your points on this matter.
TIA
Roy

 

[Shenan Stanley]

I had been planning to install this version but due to problem with
some of my acquiantances using this update I had delayed it.
NOw I would like to ask, how important is this SP3 ?
I had already SP2 in my WinXP run PC and never had problems...
What are the ramifications of not updating my WinXP to the SP3
versions?
Would my drivers and other things conk out?
Somebody said to me that the SP3 is for improved windows security?
Who will be the ultimate beneficiary, is it the user or the
Microsoft? Supposing if your PC is installed with an iron clad
antimalware protection then what is the point of improved security
in the presence of Sp3.
I am keenly interested to your points on this matter.

"... due to problem with some of my acquiantances using this update I had
delayed it ..."

What "problem" is there with it?

If they delayed it - I would like to see their point-to-point reasons at
this time. I'd like to compare it with the information I am about to give
you.

In the thousands upon thousands of installs thus far - I have not seen a
problem with SP3 that was *caused* by SP3 - but rather *exposed* by SP3.

Short:

With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and if you
have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if you do - you are
only out a short period of time (restoring from the backup/drive image you
made wisely before diving in...)

A place to get FREE support for SP3 installation issues *from Microsoft*...
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldro...requisites-for-a-successful-installation.aspx

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717

Suggestions:

1) Download the full SP3 installation file and/or burn the ISO download to
CD.
2) Ensure (as well as plausible) you have no spyware/malware by doing a full
scan with SuperAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.
3) CHKDSK
4) Defragment
5) Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date (from the hardware
manufacturer's respective web pages.)
6) Reboot right before you try to install SP3.
7) Disconnect from the internet before installing (physically.)
8) Disable your antivirus and antispyware applications when you are about to
install SP3.

Some (if not all) of that is covered in the above links.


Long:

Like it or not - Windows XP SP3 is something that you probably should
install if...

- You are currently running Windows XP (32bit).
- You care about keeping your machine current and running its best.
- You wish to continue running Windows XP for some indeterminate time into
the future.
- You want to free support if you have any trouble installing it (SP3 that
is.)

Service Pack 3 is mostly all of the updates released after SP2 and until the
release of SP3. You may think to yourself that you have been keeping your
PC updated - so you probably have all those updates - fact is, you'd be
incorrect. You may have all the publically released ones, but SP3 contains
1179 previously released updates - guaranteed you do not have them all
installed without it. ;-)

Most of the issues people have had with SP3 have to do with their particular
configuration or a problem caused by a third party change/mis-configuration
on their system - and almost all have a relatively simple fix.

Before starting, know where you can get help:

A place to get FREE support for SP3 installation issues *from Microsoft*
until April 2009...
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

Other than "Automatic Updates" or the Windows Update web page - how can you
get SP3?

Windows XP Service Pack 3 - ISO-9660 CD Image File
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...ce-b5fb-4488-8c50-fe22559d164e&DisplayLang=en

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for
IT Professionals and Developers (works just as well for you.)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...A8-5E76-401F-BE08-1E1555D4F3D4&displaylang=en


Do a little reading - to ensure you are ready...
WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldro...requisites-for-a-successful-installation.aspx

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717

Release Notes for Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://download.microsoft.com/download/c/d/8/cd8cc719-7d5a-40d3-a802-e4057aa8c631/relnotes.htm

Key things to note:
Internet Explorer:
"If you have installed Windows Internet Explorer® 7 or a beta version of
Internet Explorer 8, and then install Windows XP SP3, you cannot uninstall
Internet Explorer. To avoid this, ensure Internet Explorer 7 or a beta
version of Internet Explorer 8 is not installed before installing Windows XP
SP3. If you have already encountered this issue, uninstall Windows XP SP3,
uninstall Internet Explorer, and then reinstall Windows XP SP3."

Windows XP Media Center Edition 2002:
"If you install Windows XP SP3 on a computer running Windows XP Media Center
Edition 2002 with SP1, Windows XP Media Center Edition may malfunction. To
avoid this, install Windows XP SP2 before you install Windows XP SP3. If
this issue has already occurred, uninstall Windows XP SP3, install Windows
XP SP2, and then reinstall Windows XP SP3."


Did all that and have some issues you believe might be related to SP3?
Check these out:

It seems some people are unable to get further updates after installing
SP3... Seems some have experienced a symptom similar to doing a repair
installation on Windows XP - and the same fix seems to work for them for
that...

Updates are not installed successfully from Windows Update, from Microsoft
Update, or by using Automatic Updates after you repair a Windows XP
installation: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144

Some people experience an "endless reboot" issue...

Workarounds:
http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jes...ed-computer-boot-after-installing-xp-sp3.aspx
[NB: The above has been updated many times and now includes "a small tool
that will detect the IntelPPM problem and mitigate it before installing
[WinXP SP3]."

1. Boot into Safe Mode and rename INTELPMM.SYS to INTELPMM.OLD.
2. After booting into Safe Mode:
Start --> Run --> (copy/paste)
sc config intelppm start= disabled
--> OK --> Reboot into normal (Windows) mode.

Other references include:
1. http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?p=187790#p187790
2.http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jes...ed-computer-boot-after-installing-xp-sp3.aspx
3. http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/05/09/windows_xp_sp3_reboots_crashes/
4.
http://www.computerworld.com/action/article.do?command=viewArticleBasic&articleId=9084418
5. You receive a "Stop 0x0000007E" error message after you upgrade to
Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3 on a
non-Intel-processor-based computer (Revised 06 May-08):
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/888372

Some people have gotten an "Access Denied" message when trying to install
SP3... I suggest going straight to the third method of this article:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949377

Beyond that - some simple maintenance might be needed - like installing the
latest hardware drivers from your hardware vendors...

Good luck to you! You shouldn't need it, however, with just a little
planning. ;-)

 

[db]

nah, sp3 is not worth
the trouble.

the only improvement
is with networking and
remote assistance.

if however, you choose
to install sp3, first be sure
to disable "or" uninstall
your antivirals.

------------

keep in mind that after the
update, your system will be
sp3 and your sp2 windows cd
is no longer compatable
with your system.

so if in the future you
experience a major issue
with the o.s. and require
the cd to make repairs,

you will have to uninstall
sp3 via add/remove programs

or

you might want to have
a slipstreamed cd with
sp3 handy, which you
will need to make as
soon as possible after
updating your system
to sp3.

--

db·´¯`·...¸><)))º>
DatabaseBen, Retired Professional
- Systems Analyst
- Database Developer
- Accountancy
- Veteran of the Armed Forces

"share the nirvana" - dbZen

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

[Roy]

Suggestions:


1) Download the full SP3 installation file and/or burn the ISO
download to
CD.
2) Ensure (as well as plausible) you have no spyware/malware by doing
a full
scan with SuperAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.
3) CHKDSK
4) Defragment
5) Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date (from the hardware
manufacturer's respective web pages.)
6) Reboot right before you try to install SP3.
7) Disconnect from the internet before installing (physically.)
8) Disable your antivirus and antispyware applications when you are
about to
install SP3.

Beyond that - some simple maintenance might be needed - like installing the
latest hardware drivers from your hardware vendors...

Good luck to you!  You shouldn't need it, however, with just a little
planning. ;-)

Thanks for that detailed explanation, but how about if my windows
update continue to egg me with the SP3 update and the file size
displayed just ranges from 60-350 mb IIRC, Would this mean that what
will be installed if I follow the windows update prodding is what is
necessary and some parts of SP3 is already installed in my PC?
Is a clean install really better than the short cut instal via
windows update?

The amount of preparation needed for iSP3 installation might be
discouraging at some point, ....<grin>

 

[Roy]

nah, sp3 is not worth
the trouble.

the only improvement
is with networking and
remote assistance.

Hmm Thanks ! that sounds like an honest to good ness answer...<grin>

I had been considering that also that is why I am delaying it until
its really necessary .
The complication that arise from the installation was the thing that
held me back
and indeed some of my acquintances really regretted why they did that
sp3 update so the
cautioned me also about doing it.
They had a perfectly running computers with only WinXPSP2 only to
become problematic when the SP3 was installed...

 

[Daave]

Hmm Thanks ! that sounds like an honest to good ness answer...<grin>

You would be well advised to ignore db, who has a reputation of offering
poor advice. You would do much better to listen to a well-respected MVP
like Shenan, who is far more knowlegeable . Also keep in mind that if
you choose to install SP3 now, Microsoft is still offering *free*
support (but only until April, I believe). Furthermore, MS will stop
supporting SP2 in 2010, so you might as well do the prep work (not as
bad as it seems!) and install SP3 now. That way, in 2010, you can still
keep on installing the necessary security patches. And these patches
*are* important! Somone I know who was running an unpatched system
recently got infected with malware (Conficker, I believe) just by
*visiting* a compromised site -- she didn't even click on anything!

Two major problems with SP3 have been reported. However, with
preparation on your part, though, you won't (more than likley)
experince *any* problems whatsoever. Still, it is always wise to
image your hard drive before undertaking any major change like a
Service Pack upgrade.

Problem #1: On certain PCs that come with a factory-imaged hard
drive erroneously assuming the CPU is Intel rather than AMD (e.g.,
HPs), upgrading to SP3 without applying a particular patch first is
problematic. See this page for more information and for the fix:

http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jes...ed-computer-boot-after-installing-xp-sp3.aspx

(or http://tinyurl.com/6zs52d )

Problem #2: The installation can fail if there are devices connected to
the PC. Therefore, it is best to disconnect all perpipheral devices
(e.g., USB external hard drives, printers, etc.) and configure a Clean
Boot environment (because certain anti-malware programs that run in the
background can interfere with the upgrade). See:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353

Make sure to download the standalone SP3 installer like Shenan advised!
(Or make your own SP3 CD from the .iso file available.)

 

[JS]

Most people have not had problems but there are some that do.
I have installed SP3 on a test PC without problems but on my
PC that I use for every day use. Below is most of what you
need to know.

Note: Service Pack 2 - Support/security updates end as of
July 13th, 2010. This is another reason to move install SP3.
http://support.microsoft.com/gp/lifesupsps
http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?LN=en-us&x=7&y=11

Also if I where to install SP3 I would choose to download the
file and not use Automatic Updates.

Your PC must be at least SP1 or SP2 level as SP3 will not
install on XP Gold.

I would also create an "Image Backup" of my drive prior
to installing SP3 just in case you do have problems.
Don't have any Image Backup software:
Try "True Image" (has a 15 day trial version available)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

If you use Zone Alarm Firewall (Free or Paid) then update to
version 7.0.483.
Warning do not install ZA version 8.0.xxx as it currently has
problems.

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support
Note: Free SP3 support installed ends April 14,
(Via Email, Chat or Phone support)
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

Install SP3 in 'Clean Boot' mode:
How to configure Windows XP to start in a "clean boot" state
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353

How to obtain the latest Windows XP service pack
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322389

Where to download the SP3 installation file:
(File is large but will only install components that your PC requires)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&DisplayLang=en

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Overview
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...ad-bc34-40be-8d85-6bb4f56f5110&displaylang=en
Be sure to download and read the file titled 'Overview of Windows XP Service
Pack 3'
Note: "You can run the SP3 update package on any edition of Windows XP SP1
or SP2."

The hard disk space requirements for Windows XP Service Pack 3
Discusses the hard disk space requirements for installing
Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
"For a PC on which Windows XP is already installed"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947311/en-us

Installing Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/cc164204.aspx

Release notes for the Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/936929/en-us

List of fixes that are included in Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/946480/

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
Recommends steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3.
Also includes troubleshooting information and error codes.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717/en-us

You cannot uninstall Internet Explorer 7 or Internet Explorer 8 Beta 1
after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950719

IE 8 Beta Warning - Windows XP Service Pack 3(SP3) users only:
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/2008/08/27/upgrading-to-internet-explorer-8-beta-2.aspx

Internet Explorer 8 Release Candidate 1 Warning (1/26/09)
Scroll down the blog page till you reach
"Windows XP Service Pack 3(SP3) users only"
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/20...-internet-explorer-8-release-candidate-1.aspx

Windows XP Media Center Edition 2002:
Scroll down to the end of the article.
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/2008/05/05/ie-and-xpsp3.aspx

XP SP3: Post Installation Cleanup:
http://www.aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=62&t=33827

How to troubleshoot an unsuccessful installation of
Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950718/en-us

ISO image - used to create install CD:
(You must have CD burning software that can use an ISO as source)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...ce-b5fb-4488-8c50-fe22559d164e&DisplayLang=en

Availability of the .NET Framework 1.0 post-Service Pack 3 hotfix
Describes the .NET Framework 1.0 post-Service Pack 3 hotfix rollup package
for the Mscorwks.dll, Mscorsvr.dll, and Mscorlib.dll files.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/896061/en-us

How to prevent SP3 from being installed on your PC
(Windows Service Pack Blocker Tool Kit)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...7A-5267-4BD6-87D0-E2A72099EDB7&displaylang=en
(Works for 1 year from date SP3 was released) also read:
How to configure and use Automatic Updates in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306525/en=us
(See the section titled: Turn Off Automatic Updates)
Then each time you go to the Windows Update site choose
the "Custom" option. You can now pick and choose what
updates you want to install.


Just some of the SP3 Issues:
(see the next to last entry in this list for more issues)

You are not offered the option to install Windows XP Service Pack 3
when you use the Windows Update Web site or Automatic Updates
(5 specific reasons documented and a troubleshooting guide)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955307

Windows XP SP3 Issues and Fixes Continued:
(Note: there is a section of this article devoted to System Restore points,
read it!)
http://techtalk.pcpitstop.com/2008/...p3-still-not-ready-news-flash-do-not-install/

After you create Windows XP Service Pack 3 slipstreamed media, your product
key is not accepted
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950722/en-us

XP SP3: Registry Corruption & Norton SymProtect:
Symptoms: After installing XP Service Pack 3,
Device Manger is empty; the Network Connections panel is empty;
there are no Network connection icons; and/or there is problematic
or no Wireless or Ethernet connectivity;
the Safely Remove Hardware icon no longer appears;
USB devices no longer function, including mice.
You may not have all of these symptoms, only some of them.
Solution: http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=62&t=33522&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a

The Address toolbar no longer appears on the taskbar after you install
Windows XP Service Pack 3
Describes why the Address toolbar is no longer visible on the taskbar
A workaround (this is not a fix - the address bar is gone) for this missing
functionality is provided.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/951448/en-us

MuvEnum Address Bar:
A replacement for the missing address bar after installing SP3:
http://www.muvenum.com/products/freeware/

Restore the Address Bar in Windows XP SP3:
http://blog.ryantadams.com/2008/05/08/restore-the-address-bar-in-windows-xp-sp3/
Note: I have not tried this as I'm still at SP2, so run at your own risk!

SP3-based computer loses wireless connectivity when it resumes from standby
or from hibernation,
or you receive an error message when you try to put the computer in standby
or in hibernation
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/951447/en-us

Device Manager and Network Connections may be blank after you install
Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953791/en-us

Device Manager may not show any devices and Network Connections may not
show any network connections after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953979/en-us

Changes to the 802.1X-based wired network connection settings in Windows XP
Service Pack 3
Describes that the AuthMode and SupplicantMode registry entries are no
longer used in
Windows XP Service Pack 3 for a 802.1X-based wired network connection.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949984/en-us

You cannot connect to an 802.1X wired network after you upgrade to Windows
XP Service Pack 3
Problem in which you cannot connect to an 802.1X wired network.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953650/en-us

If you have hotfix 885222 applied on a Windows XP SP2-based computer,
and then you upgrade to Windows XP SP3,
an installed 1394b FireWire device reverts from S400 speed to S100
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955408

Error messages when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Service Pack 3 installation did not complete" and "An internal error
occurred"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949384/en-us

Windows XP Service Pack 3 installation fails with an error message, and the
following error is logged in the service pack installation log: "8007F0F4 -
STATUS_PREREQUISITE_FAILED"
You must take one of the actions that are described in this article to
resolve this issue.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949388/en-us

The Authentication tab is missing in the properties dialog box of the wired
network adapter after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950725/en-us

Error message when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Access is denied" or "Service Pack installation did not complete"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949377/en-us

You do not have enough free disk space on %SystemDrive% to install Service
Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949385

Error message when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Setup has detected that another update is in progress Please complete that
installation or removal and try again"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949381/en-us

Error message during every restart after you install Windows XP Service Pack
3:
"The procedure entry point apsSearchInterface could not be located in the
dynamic link library wlanapi.dll"
Describes a situation in which you receive an error message every time that
you restart a Windows XP-based computer.
Specifically, this problem occurs after you install Windows XP Service Pack
3 (SP3).
A resolution is provided: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950720/en-us

Error message after you upgrade a computer that uses a processor other than
an Intel processor to Windows XP Service Pack 2 or to Windows XP Service
Pack 3: "STOP: 0x0000007E"
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=953356
This is the patch to fix the above issue "For non-Intel processors"
***Must be applied before installing SP3***
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...A7-54D6-4C31-BDA3-EFD2F7E87A8C&displaylang=en

You receive a "Stop 0x0000007E" error message after you upgrade to Windows
XP Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3 on a non-Intel-processor-based computer.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/888372

From: Jesper Johansson's blog
Does your AMD-based computer boot after installing XP SP3?
(Affects AMD-based computers with OEM images, primarily HP Desktops)
http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jes...ed-computer-boot-after-installing-xp-sp3.aspx

A blank desktop may appear when you log on to a Windows XP-based computer:
(Hotfix for SP2 and SP3)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/948277/en-us

Event ID: 5603 occurs when you install Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1,
Windows XP Service Pack 2, or Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/915148/en-us

Updates are not installed successfully from Windows Update,
from Microsoft Update, or by using Automatic Updates after
you repair a Windows XP installation
(This KB article may also solve SP3 Windows Update will not work problem)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144

Some third-party programs may experience a change in functionality after you
install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947309

Problems occur after installing Windows XP Service Pack 3 or
Windows Vista Service Pack 1 with a Norton 2008 product installed:
Info and Fix:
http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/norton2008.nsf/docid/2008051623552079

The print operation fails, or partial pages are printed when you try to
print to a Citizen printer or to an Alps printer
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;951822

Custom settings in the Oobeinfo.ini file are lost after you upgrade a
computer to Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953651/en-us

Error message when you try to use the "Files and Settings Transfer" Wizard
to import settings on a computer that is running Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Your migration store was created with a previous version of Files and
Settings Transfer Wizard"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950728

Windows Installer 4.5
(supports SP2 and SP3)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/942288

The long list of things you don't want to know about Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/search...pack+3&catalog=LCID=1033&1033comm=1&spid=1173

How to remove Windows XP Service Pack 3 from your computer
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950249/en-us

 

[Shenan Stanley]

I had been planning to install this version but due to problem with
some of my acquiantances using this update I had delayed it.
NOw I would like to ask, how important is this SP3 ?
I had already SP2 in my WinXP run PC and never had problems...
What are the ramifications of not updating my WinXP to the SP3
versions?
Would my drivers and other things conk out?
Somebody said to me that the SP3 is for improved windows security?
Who will be the ultimate beneficiary, is it the user or the
Microsoft? Supposing if your PC is installed with an iron clad
antimalware protection then what is the point of improved security
in the presence of Sp3.
I am keenly interested to your points on this matter.

Shenan Stanley wrote:

In the thousands upon thousands of installs thus far - I have not
seen a problem with SP3 that was *caused* by SP3 - but rather
*exposed* by SP3.

Short:

With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and
if you have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if
you do - you are only out a short period of time (restoring from
the backup/drive image you made wisely before diving in...)

A place to get FREE support for SP3 installation issues *from
Microsoft*...
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldro...requisites-for-a-successful-installation.aspx

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717

Suggestions:

1) Download the full SP3 installation file and/or burn the ISO
download to CD.
2) Ensure (as well as plausible) you have no spyware/malware by
doing a full scan with SuperAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.
3) CHKDSK
4) Defragment
5) Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date (from the hardware
manufacturer's respective web pages.)
6) Reboot right before you try to install SP3.
7) Disconnect from the internet before installing (physically.)
8) Disable your antivirus and antispyware applications when you are
about to install SP3.

Some (if not all) of that is covered in the above links.

<snip the long version>

Thanks for that detailed explanation, but how about if my windows
update continue to egg me with the SP3 update and the file size
displayed just ranges from 60-350 mb IIRC, Would this mean that what
will be installed if I follow the windows update prodding is what is
necessary and some parts of SP3 is already installed in my PC?
Is a clean install really better than the short cut instal via
windows update?

The amount of preparation needed for iSP3 installation might be
discouraging at some point, ....<grin>

If the amount of preparation is discouraging - I refer you to my posting
where I stated:

"With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and if you
have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if you do - you are
only out a short period of time (restoring from the backup/drive image you
made wisely before diving in...)"

What I am saying is - if you have been properly maintaining your machine all
along - the preparation is probably just part of normal routine. If you
have not been properly maintaining your machine all along - you aren't going
to learn any younger how to.

To answer your direct questions (from your original post and follow up
post):

- The ramifications? You are not updated and soon, will not receive further
Windows XP updates without installing SP3 - as Windows XP SP2 will no longer
be supported or conatin the necessary components to accept later updates.
If you plan on replacing your Windows XP machine with another OS soon -
none.

- Your drivers would likely be fine - sometimes you need to update them -
but SP3 was not like SP2 in this category. SP2 affected far more drivers
than SP3 did - in fact - I would venture to say the only driver issues I
recall/have seen with SP3 have been the HP AMD fiasco and one or two strange
'software dongle key' issues.

- Whom told you that SP3 was for improved security?

- In the end - Microsoft doesn't care if you update to SP3 or not. That's
*your* problem. If you stick with Windows 98 for the rest of your life and
it always does what you need - the only thing Microsoft misses out on is
making more money off you since you never purchase another OS. Same thing
here. You already paid them for Windows XP. Doesn't matter if you run it
without any SP, with SP1, SP1a, SP2 or SP3. That's *your* choice and you
get to live with the consequences. If Microsoft provides you with support
for a given version (Say Windows XP with SP3 installed) and you have chosen
to stop at Windows XP SP2 and just deal with things without security updates
and the likes... OK - your choice.

- hahahah hahahah Iron Clad and antivirus, antimalware, security of any
type. That's funny. If there was any iron clad solution out there - none
of the rest would be able to show their faces and we wouldn't be chatting
here. Perfection (iron clad) does not exist. Everything is continuously
involving and improving. You can choose to evolve with it or just let your
stuff get so old that no one benefits from hacking it anyway (and things you
might want to use cannot even be installed. heh)

- After you install Windows XP SP3, windows update should not ask you about
installing it anymore.

- The size differential is because you likely *do* have components of it
installed. However - Windows XP SP3 contains 1179 updates - only a fraction
of which were released to the general public between Windows XP SP2 and SP3
as well as including everything in SP1a and SP2. If you have Windows XP
SP2, then you have everything that was included in SP1a and SP2 and you
probably have 100 or so updates since SP2 out of the additional 1179 things
Windows XP SP3 includes. So - you are missing, likely, about 1050+ things.
If you can live with that - *shrug*, okay.

- It is BETTER (IMHO) to follow the advice I gave in numbered format and
install from a downloaded/ISO version of the service pack *offline*. Think
of it simply - if your computer is concentrating on doing *one thing* (the
installation of SP3) and nothing else - that's just bound to work out
better. Just like you driving down a road. You are probably a better
driver if that is all you are doing, as opposed to singing with the radio
while drinking a soft drink and eating a burger and talking on your cell
phone at the same time. Also - you eliminate any strange download issues
while it is decided what you need and don't need.


So - having answered your questions directly - I again ask mine...

You stated, "... due to problem with some of my acquiantances using this
update I had delayed it ..."

What "problem" is there with it?

Since you delayed installing because of problems said acquaintances
had - I would be interested in the actual problems/reasons. I'd like
to compare it with the information I have already given you.

 

[Roy]

Shenan Stanley wrote:

<snipped>








<snip the long version>



If the amount of preparation is discouraging - I refer you to my posting
where I stated:

"With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and if you
have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if you do - you are
only out a short period of time (restoring from the backup/drive image you
made wisely before diving in...)"

What I am saying is - if you have been properly maintaining your machine all
along - the preparation is probably just part of normal routine.  If you
have not been properly maintaining your machine all along - you aren't going
to learn any younger how to.

To answer your direct questions (from your original post and follow up
post):

- The ramifications?  You are not updated and soon, will not receive further
Windows XP updates without installing SP3 - as Windows XP SP2 will no longer
be supported or conatin the necessary components to accept later updates.
If you plan on replacing your Windows XP machine with another OS soon -
none.

- Your drivers would likely be fine - sometimes you need to update them -
but SP3 was not like SP2 in this category.  SP2 affected far more drivers
than SP3 did - in fact - I would venture to say the only driver issues I
recall/have seen with SP3 have been the HP AMD fiasco and one or two strange
'software dongle key' issues.

- Whom told you that SP3 was for improved security?

- In the end - Microsoft doesn't care if you update to SP3 or not.  That's
*your* problem.  If you stick with Windows 98 for the rest of your lifeand
it always does what you need - the only thing Microsoft misses out on is
making more money off you since you never purchase another OS.  Same thing
here.  You already paid them for Windows XP.  Doesn't matter if you run it
without any SP, with SP1, SP1a, SP2 or SP3.  That's *your* choice and you
get to live with the consequences.  If Microsoft provides you with support
for a given version (Say Windows XP with SP3 installed) and you have chosen
to stop at Windows XP SP2 and just deal with things without security updates
and the likes... OK - your choice.

- hahahah  hahahah  Iron Clad and antivirus, antimalware, security ofany
type.  That's funny.  If there was any iron clad solution out there -none
of the rest would be able to show their faces and we wouldn't be chatting
here.  Perfection (iron clad) does not exist.  Everything is continuously
involving and improving.  You can choose to evolve with it or just let your
stuff get so old that no one benefits from hacking it anyway (and things you
might want to use cannot even be installed. heh)

- After you install Windows XP SP3, windows update should not ask you about
installing it anymore.

- The size differential is because you likely *do* have components of it
installed.  However - Windows XP SP3 contains 1179 updates - only a fraction
of which were released to the general public between Windows XP SP2 and SP3
as well as including everything in SP1a and SP2.  If you have Windows XP
SP2, then you have everything that was included in SP1a and SP2 and you
probably have 100 or so updates since SP2 out of the additional 1179 things
Windows XP SP3 includes.  So - you are missing, likely, about 1050+ things.
If you can live with that - *shrug*, okay.

- It is BETTER (IMHO) to follow the advice I gave in numbered format and
install from a downloaded/ISO version of the service pack *offline*.  Think
of it simply - if your computer is concentrating on doing *one thing* (the
installation of SP3) and nothing else - that's just bound to work out
better.  Just like you driving down a road.  You are probably a better
driver if that is all you are doing, as opposed to singing with the radio
while drinking a soft drink and eating a burger and talking on your cell
phone at the same time.  Also - you eliminate any strange download issues
while it is decided what you need and don't need.

So - having answered your questions directly - I again ask mine...

You stated, "... due to problem with some of my acquiantances using this
update I had delayed it ..."

What "problem" is there with it?

Since you delayed installing because of problems said acquaintances
had - I would be interested in the actual problems/reasons.  I'd like
to compare it with the information I have already given you.

May I ask are you a Microsoft marketing fella?....
You seem to arouse suspicion...with your lengthy discourse..

You seem to enumerate only the good part of it.
And you did not even care to answer what is the difference between the
installation of sp3 via windows update and by ISO fresh installation.
Besides my PC is had factory installed WinXP SP 2.
You seems to be promoting only the benefits but you never dig out the
problems that may arise....
BTW, when all the people I know in my vicinity operated PC WinXP
sp2 and even Sp3 got infected with a conficker virus, due to poor
antimalware but not mine, meaning its not the SP3 that makes the
computer safe?

 

[Shenan Stanley]

I had been planning to install this version but due to problem with
some of my acquiantances using this update I had delayed it.
NOw I would like to ask, how important is this SP3 ?
I had already SP2 in my WinXP run PC and never had problems...
What are the ramifications of not updating my WinXP to the SP3
versions?
Would my drivers and other things conk out?
Somebody said to me that the SP3 is for improved windows security?
Who will be the ultimate beneficiary, is it the user or the
Microsoft? Supposing if your PC is installed with an iron clad
antimalware protection then what is the point of improved security
in the presence of Sp3.
I am keenly interested to your points on this matter.

Shenan Stanley wrote:

In the thousands upon thousands of installs thus far - I have not
seen a problem with SP3 that was *caused* by SP3 - but rather
*exposed* by SP3.

Short:

With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and
if you have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if
you do - you are only out a short period of time (restoring from
the backup/drive image you made wisely before diving in...)

A place to get FREE support for SP3 installation issues *from
Microsoft*...
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldro...requisites-for-a-successful-installation.aspx

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717

Suggestions:

1) Download the full SP3 installation file and/or burn the ISO
download to CD.
2) Ensure (as well as plausible) you have no spyware/malware by
doing a full scan with SuperAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.
3) CHKDSK
4) Defragment
5) Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date (from the hardware
manufacturer's respective web pages.)
6) Reboot right before you try to install SP3.
7) Disconnect from the internet before installing (physically.)
8) Disable your antivirus and antispyware applications when you are
about to install SP3.

Some (if not all) of that is covered in the above links.

<snip the long version>

Thanks for that detailed explanation, but how about if my windows
update continue to egg me with the SP3 update and the file size
displayed just ranges from 60-350 mb IIRC, Would this mean that what
will be installed if I follow the windows update prodding is what is
necessary and some parts of SP3 is already installed in my PC?
Is a clean install really better than the short cut instal via
windows update?

The amount of preparation needed for iSP3 installation might be
discouraging at some point, ....<grin>

If the amount of preparation is discouraging - I refer you to my
posting where I stated:

"With proper preparation - you are unlikely to have problems - and
if you have been performing proper maintenance all along - even if
you do - you are only out a short period of time (restoring from
the backup/drive image you made wisely before diving in...)"

What I am saying is - if you have been properly maintaining your
machine all along - the preparation is probably just part of normal
routine. If you have not been properly maintaining your machine
all along - you aren't going to learn any younger how to.

To answer your direct questions (from your original post and follow
up post):

- The ramifications? You are not updated and soon, will not
receive further Windows XP updates without installing SP3 - as
Windows XP SP2 will no longer be supported or conatin the necessary
components to accept later updates. If you plan on replacing your
Windows XP machine with another OS soon - none.

- Your drivers would likely be fine - sometimes you need to update
them - but SP3 was not like SP2 in this category. SP2 affected far
more drivers than SP3 did - in fact - I would venture to say the
only driver issues I recall/have seen with SP3 have been the HP AMD
fiasco and one or two strange 'software dongle key' issues.

- Whom told you that SP3 was for improved security?

- In the end - Microsoft doesn't care if you update to SP3 or not.
That's *your* problem. If you stick with Windows 98 for the rest
of your life and it always does what you need - the only thing
Microsoft misses out on is making more money off you since you
never purchase another OS. Same thing here. You already paid them
for Windows XP. Doesn't matter if you run it without any SP, with
SP1, SP1a, SP2 or SP3. That's *your* choice and you get to live
with the consequences. If Microsoft provides you with support for
a given version (Say Windows XP with SP3 installed) and you have
chosen to stop at Windows XP SP2 and just deal with things without
security updates and the likes... OK - your choice.

- hahahah hahahah Iron Clad and antivirus, antimalware, security
of any type. That's funny. If there was any iron clad solution
out there - none of the rest would be able to show their faces and
we wouldn't be chatting here. Perfection (iron clad) does not
exist. Everything is continuously involving and improving. You
can choose to evolve with it or just let your stuff get so old that
no one benefits from hacking it anyway (and things you might want
to use cannot even be installed. heh)

- After you install Windows XP SP3, windows update should not ask
you about installing it anymore.

- The size differential is because you likely *do* have components
of it installed. However - Windows XP SP3 contains 1179 updates -
only a fraction of which were released to the general public
between Windows XP SP2 and SP3 as well as including everything in
SP1a and SP2. If you have Windows XP SP2, then you have everything
that was included in SP1a and SP2 and you probably have 100 or so
updates since SP2 out of the additional 1179 things Windows XP SP3
includes. So - you are missing, likely, about 1050+ things. If you
can live with that - *shrug*, okay.

- It is BETTER (IMHO) to follow the advice I gave in numbered
format and install from a downloaded/ISO version of the service
pack *offline*. Think of it simply - if your computer is
concentrating on doing *one thing* (the installation of SP3) and
nothing else - that's just bound to work out better. Just like you
driving down a road. You are probably a better driver if that is
all you are doing, as opposed to singing with the radio while
drinking a soft drink and eating a burger and talking on your cell
phone at the same time. Also - you eliminate any strange download
issues while it is decided what you need and don't need.


So - having answered your questions directly - I again ask mine...

You stated, "... due to problem with some of my acquiantances using
this update I had delayed it ..."

What "problem" is there with it?

Since you delayed installing because of problems said acquaintances
had - I would be interested in the actual problems/reasons. I'd
like to compare it with the information I have already given
you.

May I ask are you a Microsoft marketing fella?....
You seem to arouse suspicion...with your lengthy discourse..

You seem to enumerate only the good part of it.
And you did not even care to answer what is the difference
between the installation of sp3 via windows update and by
ISO fresh installation.

Besides my PC is had factory installed WinXP SP 2.
You seems to be promoting only the benefits but you never
dig out the problems that may arise....

BTW, when all the people I know in my vicinity operated PC WinXP
sp2 and even Sp3 got infected with a conficker virus, due to poor
antimalware but not mine, meaning its not the SP3 that makes the
computer safe?

I have no direct relationship (other than voluntary here on these
newsgroups) with Microsoft. I hate marketing, it's usually not fact-based.
I don't particularly care if you ever use a Microsoft product or not. I am
just presenting you all the facts. What you do with them is your choice.
Your choice is your own - no one here really cares what you end up doing.

I did enumerate why I prefer local/offline installation vs. the download and
what tthe size differences in possible download sizes were - you are
eliminating the risk of random problems during download and you are taking
the computer offline, so you are not risking any exposure during the update.
Online simply scans your machine and sees which parts it needs to download.
If you have SP1a when you scan, it needs everything from then/on. If you
have SP2 already installed, it needs everything from then on. So on. So
the download can be variable in size. The ISO/full executable does the same
thing - but just for the install part - there is no download.

I gave all the problems that I have seen (and their work-arounds/fixes) in
my lengthier response. If you cannot read - that is a problem you need to
address elsewhere. ;-) The links given have practically everything that has
been reported in these newsgroups and the steps many people have taken and
then had no problems installing SP3 as a result of.

My experience is that Windows XP SP3 is a benign update, all problems I have
seen associated with it were existing issues - things that needed to be
looked at before SP3 was ever thought of, but quite possibly the user did
not know about them and/or did not properly maintain their machine.

*shrug* - so you did not get infected when everyone else did. I run no
_active_ AntiSpyware applications on any of my personal machines and have
one or two machines I have ran for long periods of time without AntiVirus
software - and have not personally ever got infected with a virus or the
likes. It's a matter of common sense and habits.

No one here said SP3 made your computer safe (only you did that) - I just
inferred you that if you did not update, your system would be unsupported
and one day it is possible a patch for a yet unknown security hole comes up
and you will be unable to install said patch without SP3 installed.


I cannot dig out what isn't there in my experience. You are the one that
claimed to have delayed things because of problems you 'acquaintances had' -
but you seem unwilling to enumerate those. Why is that?


I've given you all you need to decide, there really isn't much more you
could get out there than what I have presented you in these posts
surrounding SP3 and the known issues surrounding its installed and the
suggestions on the best way to install it.

Sorry - I don't know how to give facts like this in a "McDonald's Picture
Menu" manner - have to use words. ;-)

Now it is "all you" - decide... or don't (which is a decision.)

 

[Shenan Stanley]

<snipped ALL>
Missed anything?
Why?

http://groups.google.com/group/micr...8e254e7a092/cf5aa69beffbcc72#cf5aa69beffbcc72

(Archived Indefinitely - entire conversation)

 

[Roy]

Shhhrug...okay...



via windows update and by



I have no direct relationship (other than voluntary here on these
newsgroups) with Microsoft.  I hate marketing, it's usually not fact-based.
I don't particularly care if you ever use a Microsoft product or not.  I am
just presenting you all the facts.  What you do with them is your choice.
Your choice is your own - no one here really cares what you end up doing.

Hmmm I am going to appreciate likely as i soon as I digested all what
you have discussed

I did enumerate why I prefer local/offline installation vs. the download and
what tthe size differences in possible download sizes were - you are
eliminating the risk of random problems during download and you are taking
the computer offline, so you are not risking any exposure during the update.

What I mean is if the Sp3 updates is already downloaded by windows
update and just need a go signal to instal , but still ruminating
whether to give it a go or nott

Online simply scans your machine and sees which parts it needs to download.
If you have SP1a when you scan, it needs everything from then/on.  If you
have SP2 already installed, it needs everything from then on.  So on.  So
the download can be variable in size.  The ISO/full executable does thesame
thing - but just for the install part - there is no download.

The full install results in a big file that the update as why there is
arange of file size that needs to be idownloaded /nstalled?

I gave all the problems that I have seen (and their work-arounds/fixes) in
my lengthier response.  If you cannot read - that is a problem you needto
address elsewhere. ;-)  The links given have practically everything that has
been reported in these newsgroups and the steps many people have taken and
then had no problems installing SP3 as a result of.

Thanks for that ....

My experience is that Windows XP SP3 is a benign update, all problems I have
seen associated with it were existing issues - things that needed to be
looked at before SP3 was ever thought of, but quite possibly the user did
not know about them and/or did not properly maintain their machine.

That is one issue, if there is not much care about PC maintenance like
many of the PC users and the lack of users friendliness of the
installation and update of the SP3 is something of concern.

*shrug* - so you did not get infected when everyone else did.  I run no
_active_ AntiSpyware applications on any of my personal machines and have
one or two machines I have ran for long periods of time without AntiVirus
software - and have not personally ever got infected with a virus or the
likes.  It's a matter of common sense and habits.

Oh? you must be running MAC OS or some other OS aside from Windoze?

Or its either your pc have already a preinstalled antimalware that
magically install /update by itself without your knowledge ( and
always in hidden/ invisible mode) <grin>?
Would you mind sharing that knowhow of that invisible malware
protection. that you've got in your pc as
Thats good a good business investment opportunity to invest as there

I cannot dig out what isn't there in my experience.  You are the one that
claimed to have delayed things because of problems you 'acquaintances had' -
but you seem unwilling to enumerate those.  Why is that?

Well whatever their problems with their pcs I did n ot care to know
more about but the fact is the SP3 installation was the culprit. and
Nothing else and that is the reason for my reluctance to instal it in
mine.

I've given you all you need to decide, there really isn't much more you
could get out there than what I have presented you in these posts
surrounding SP3 and the known issues surrounding its installed and the
suggestions on the best way to install it.

Now it is "all you" - decide...  or don't (which is a decision.)

 

[Randall Flagg]

- Whom told you that SP3 was for improved security?

It's "Who told you....?"

WHOM would be used for "You told whom...?" or "Whom did you tell...?"

 

[Big_Al]

JS said this on 3/14/2009 12:01 AM:

Most people have not had problems but there are some that do.
I have installed SP3 on a test PC without problems but on my
PC that I use for every day use. Below is most of what you
need to know.

Note: Service Pack 2 - Support/security updates end as of
July 13th, 2010. This is another reason to move install SP3.
http://support.microsoft.com/gp/lifesupsps
http://support.microsoft.com/lifecycle/?LN=en-us&x=7&y=11

Also if I where to install SP3 I would choose to download the
file and not use Automatic Updates.

Your PC must be at least SP1 or SP2 level as SP3 will not
install on XP Gold.

I would also create an "Image Backup" of my drive prior
to installing SP3 just in case you do have problems.
Don't have any Image Backup software:
Try "True Image" (has a 15 day trial version available)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

If you use Zone Alarm Firewall (Free or Paid) then update to
version 7.0.483.
Warning do not install ZA version 8.0.xxx as it currently has
problems.

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support
Note: Free SP3 support installed ends April 14,
(Via Email, Chat or Phone support)
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?ln=en-us&prid=11273&gprid=522131

Install SP3 in 'Clean Boot' mode:
How to configure Windows XP to start in a "clean boot" state
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353

How to obtain the latest Windows XP service pack
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/322389

Where to download the SP3 installation file:
(File is large but will only install components that your PC requires)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&DisplayLang=en

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Overview
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...ad-bc34-40be-8d85-6bb4f56f5110&displaylang=en
Be sure to download and read the file titled 'Overview of Windows XP Service
Pack 3'
Note: "You can run the SP3 update package on any edition of Windows XP SP1
or SP2."

The hard disk space requirements for Windows XP Service Pack 3
Discusses the hard disk space requirements for installing
Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
"For a PC on which Windows XP is already installed"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947311/en-us

Installing Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/cc164204.aspx

Release notes for the Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/936929/en-us

List of fixes that are included in Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/946480/

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
Recommends steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3.
Also includes troubleshooting information and error codes.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717/en-us

You cannot uninstall Internet Explorer 7 or Internet Explorer 8 Beta 1
after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950719

IE 8 Beta Warning - Windows XP Service Pack 3(SP3) users only:
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/2008/08/27/upgrading-to-internet-explorer-8-beta-2.aspx

Internet Explorer 8 Release Candidate 1 Warning (1/26/09)
Scroll down the blog page till you reach
"Windows XP Service Pack 3(SP3) users only"
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/20...-internet-explorer-8-release-candidate-1.aspx

Windows XP Media Center Edition 2002:
Scroll down to the end of the article.
http://blogs.msdn.com/ie/archive/2008/05/05/ie-and-xpsp3.aspx

XP SP3: Post Installation Cleanup:
http://www.aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=62&t=33827

How to troubleshoot an unsuccessful installation of
Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950718/en-us

ISO image - used to create install CD:
(You must have CD burning software that can use an ISO as source)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...ce-b5fb-4488-8c50-fe22559d164e&DisplayLang=en

Availability of the .NET Framework 1.0 post-Service Pack 3 hotfix
Describes the .NET Framework 1.0 post-Service Pack 3 hotfix rollup package
for the Mscorwks.dll, Mscorsvr.dll, and Mscorlib.dll files.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/896061/en-us

How to prevent SP3 from being installed on your PC
(Windows Service Pack Blocker Tool Kit)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...7A-5267-4BD6-87D0-E2A72099EDB7&displaylang=en
(Works for 1 year from date SP3 was released) also read:
How to configure and use Automatic Updates in Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306525/en=us
(See the section titled: Turn Off Automatic Updates)
Then each time you go to the Windows Update site choose
the "Custom" option. You can now pick and choose what
updates you want to install.


Just some of the SP3 Issues:
(see the next to last entry in this list for more issues)

You are not offered the option to install Windows XP Service Pack 3
when you use the Windows Update Web site or Automatic Updates
(5 specific reasons documented and a troubleshooting guide)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955307

Windows XP SP3 Issues and Fixes Continued:
(Note: there is a section of this article devoted to System Restore points,
read it!)
http://techtalk.pcpitstop.com/2008/...p3-still-not-ready-news-flash-do-not-install/

After you create Windows XP Service Pack 3 slipstreamed media, your product
key is not accepted
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950722/en-us

XP SP3: Registry Corruption & Norton SymProtect:
Symptoms: After installing XP Service Pack 3,
Device Manger is empty; the Network Connections panel is empty;
there are no Network connection icons; and/or there is problematic
or no Wireless or Ethernet connectivity;
the Safely Remove Hardware icon no longer appears;
USB devices no longer function, including mice.
You may not have all of these symptoms, only some of them.
Solution: http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=62&t=33522&start=0&st=0&sk=t&sd=a

The Address toolbar no longer appears on the taskbar after you install
Windows XP Service Pack 3
Describes why the Address toolbar is no longer visible on the taskbar
A workaround (this is not a fix - the address bar is gone) for this missing
functionality is provided.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/951448/en-us

MuvEnum Address Bar:
A replacement for the missing address bar after installing SP3:
http://www.muvenum.com/products/freeware/

Restore the Address Bar in Windows XP SP3:
http://blog.ryantadams.com/2008/05/08/restore-the-address-bar-in-windows-xp-sp3/
Note: I have not tried this as I'm still at SP2, so run at your own risk!

SP3-based computer loses wireless connectivity when it resumes from standby
or from hibernation,
or you receive an error message when you try to put the computer in standby
or in hibernation
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/951447/en-us

Device Manager and Network Connections may be blank after you install
Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953791/en-us

Device Manager may not show any devices and Network Connections may not
show any network connections after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953979/en-us

Changes to the 802.1X-based wired network connection settings in Windows XP
Service Pack 3
Describes that the AuthMode and SupplicantMode registry entries are no
longer used in
Windows XP Service Pack 3 for a 802.1X-based wired network connection.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949984/en-us

You cannot connect to an 802.1X wired network after you upgrade to Windows
XP Service Pack 3
Problem in which you cannot connect to an 802.1X wired network.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953650/en-us

If you have hotfix 885222 applied on a Windows XP SP2-based computer,
and then you upgrade to Windows XP SP3,
an installed 1394b FireWire device reverts from S400 speed to S100
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955408

Error messages when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Service Pack 3 installation did not complete" and "An internal error
occurred"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949384/en-us

Windows XP Service Pack 3 installation fails with an error message, and the
following error is logged in the service pack installation log: "8007F0F4 -
STATUS_PREREQUISITE_FAILED"
You must take one of the actions that are described in this article to
resolve this issue.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949388/en-us

The Authentication tab is missing in the properties dialog box of the wired
network adapter after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950725/en-us

Error message when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Access is denied" or "Service Pack installation did not complete"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949377/en-us

You do not have enough free disk space on %SystemDrive% to install Service
Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949385

Error message when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Setup has detected that another update is in progress Please complete that
installation or removal and try again"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949381/en-us

Error message during every restart after you install Windows XP Service Pack
3:
"The procedure entry point apsSearchInterface could not be located in the
dynamic link library wlanapi.dll"
Describes a situation in which you receive an error message every time that
you restart a Windows XP-based computer.
Specifically, this problem occurs after you install Windows XP Service Pack
3 (SP3).
A resolution is provided: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950720/en-us

Error message after you upgrade a computer that uses a processor other than
an Intel processor to Windows XP Service Pack 2 or to Windows XP Service
Pack 3: "STOP: 0x0000007E"
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=953356
This is the patch to fix the above issue "For non-Intel processors"
***Must be applied before installing SP3***
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...A7-54D6-4C31-BDA3-EFD2F7E87A8C&displaylang=en

You receive a "Stop 0x0000007E" error message after you upgrade to Windows
XP Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3 on a non-Intel-processor-based computer.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/888372

From: Jesper Johansson's blog
Does your AMD-based computer boot after installing XP SP3?
(Affects AMD-based computers with OEM images, primarily HP Desktops)
http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jes...ed-computer-boot-after-installing-xp-sp3.aspx

A blank desktop may appear when you log on to a Windows XP-based computer:
(Hotfix for SP2 and SP3)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/948277/en-us

Event ID: 5603 occurs when you install Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1,
Windows XP Service Pack 2, or Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/915148/en-us

Updates are not installed successfully from Windows Update,
from Microsoft Update, or by using Automatic Updates after
you repair a Windows XP installation
(This KB article may also solve SP3 Windows Update will not work problem)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144

Some third-party programs may experience a change in functionality after you
install Windows XP Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947309

Problems occur after installing Windows XP Service Pack 3 or
Windows Vista Service Pack 1 with a Norton 2008 product installed:
Info and Fix:
http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/norton2008.nsf/docid/2008051623552079

The print operation fails, or partial pages are printed when you try to
print to a Citizen printer or to an Alps printer
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;951822

Custom settings in the Oobeinfo.ini file are lost after you upgrade a
computer to Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953651/en-us

Error message when you try to use the "Files and Settings Transfer" Wizard
to import settings on a computer that is running Windows XP Service Pack 3:
"Your migration store was created with a previous version of Files and
Settings Transfer Wizard"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950728

Windows Installer 4.5
(supports SP2 and SP3)
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/942288

The long list of things you don't want to know about Service Pack 3:
http://support.microsoft.com/search...pack+3&catalog=LCID=1033&1033comm=1&spid=1173

How to remove Windows XP Service Pack 3 from your computer
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950249/en-us

Zone Alarm 8 does not have issues. I'm running it with SP3. I did
load it post SP3 install. There was an issue when MS released a DNS
patch via WU and a lot of PC's got patched and vendors like ZoneAlarm
did not get their product updated to match the MS patch. It took a day
to get their patch released, but all you had to do was turn off ZA as it
would block the internet, download then install the latest ZA program
and all was fine.

 

[Jonathan Harker]

[290 quoted lines snipped]

Zone Alarm 8 does not have issues.

[more snipped]

Umm... your post with the quotes was 298 lines. Your 9-line reply was
to material was at about line 23 and that was only 4 lines long.

Do you think you could have quoted more judiciously?

 

[BillW50]

In Daave typed on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 23:22:13 -0400:

news:a1d6572b-4258-474e-8c7b-1219e4f97dcc@d36g2000prf.googlegroups.com... [...]
Problem #2: The installation can fail if there are devices connected
to the PC. Therefore, it is best to disconnect all perpipheral devices
(e.g., USB external hard drives, printers, etc.) and configure a Clean
Boot environment (because certain anti-malware programs that run in
the background can interfere with the upgrade). See:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353

Make sure to download the standalone SP3 installer like Shenan
advised! (Or make your own SP3 CD from the .iso file available.)

Sounds like it is best to install SP3 in Safe Mode, if it will let you.
Or maybe that isn't a good idea since you won't see much of your system
and guess wrong when it installs files.

--
Bill
2 Gateway MX6124 - Windows XP SP2
3 Asus EEE PC 701G4 ~ 2GB RAM ~ 16GB-SDHC
2 Asus EEE PC 702G8 ~ 1GB RAM ~ 16GB-SDHC
Windows XP SP2 ~ Xandros Linux - Puppy - Ubuntu

 

[BillW50]

In
Roy typed on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 19:08:04 -0700 (PDT):

Hmm Thanks ! that sounds like an honest to good ness answer...<grin>

I had been considering that also that is why I am delaying it until
its really necessary. The complication that arise from the
installation was the thing that held me back and indeed some of my
acquintances really regretted why they did that sp3 update so the
cautioned me also about doing it. They had a perfectly running
computers with only WinXPSP2 only to become problematic when the SP3
was installed...

I haven't installed SP3 on any of my computers because I still remember
the horrors of installing SP2. Not a single one went well for me. And
performance went down the tubes. And only a total slipstreamed XP with
SP2 in a complete reinstall worked for all of my computers. What a PIA!
If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't. Period! There is much to
be said about not fixing something that isn't broken. ;-)

--
Bill
2 Gateway MX6124 - Windows XP SP2
3 Asus EEE PC 701G4 ~ 2GB RAM ~ 16GB-SDHC
2 Asus EEE PC 702G8 ~ 1GB RAM ~ 16GB-SDHC
Windows XP SP2 ~ Xandros Linux - Puppy - Ubuntu

 

[JS]

Thanks Big Al, something I forgot about.

 

[Shenan Stanley]

http://groups.google.com/group/micr...8e254e7a092/cf5aa69beffbcc72#cf5aa69beffbcc72
(Archived Indefinitely - entire conversation)

Shenan Stanley wrote:
- Whom told you that SP3 was for improved security?



Hmmm I am going to appreciate likely as i soon as I digested all
what you have discussed

What I mean is if the Sp3 updates is already downloaded by windows
update and just need a go signal to instal , but still ruminating
whether to give it a go or nott


The full install results in a big file that the update as why there
is arange of file size that needs to be idownloaded /nstalled?

Thanks for that ....

That is one issue, if there is not much care about PC maintenance
like many of the PC users and the lack of users friendliness of the
installation and update of the SP3 is something of concern.

Oh? you must be running MAC OS or some other OS aside from Windoze?

Or its either your pc have already a preinstalled antimalware that
magically install /update by itself without your knowledge ( and
always in hidden/ invisible mode) <grin>?
Would you mind sharing that knowhow of that invisible malware
protection. that you've got in your pc as
Thats good a good business investment opportunity to invest as


Well whatever their problems with their pcs I did n ot care to know
more about but the fact is the SP3 installation was the culprit. and
Nothing else and that is the reason for my reluctance to instal it
in mine.


Anyway I presume things will get better soon<grin>

The proper maintenance of your computer should not be something you do just
because of an update, it is a continuous thing. Lack of it was the reason
some had trouble installing Windows XP SP3; although in a few cases, it was
something someone else (like HP) had done long before the end-user had a
chance to do anything.

With common sense and a little knowledge - I'd dare say you do not need
antimalware software or even antivirus software. A firewall and perhaps NAT
protection followed by using common sense and maintaining a basic level of
knowledge so you don't do the dense things that get you infested/infected.
I still _recommend_ people use antivirus software, because anyone could have
a moment of weakness or foolishness.

The download size range (one more time) presented to you by the automatic
updates and/or windowsupdate.microsoft.com web page is because from there it
will scan your computer and only _download and install_ what you need. If
you download the full executable - it is *one* size: 316.4 MB. It does the
scanning and only _installs_ what you need.

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for
IT Professionals and Developers (works just as well for you.)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...A8-5E76-401F-BE08-1E1555D4F3D4&displaylang=en


You seem to not have the gumption to install Windows XP SP3. Nothing anyone
here can say will give you the courage you lack - all anyone here can do is
give you the actual facts of the situation. IMO, your fear is founded in
ignorance. You can continue blissfully in your timorous ignorance or take
the advice given. It cannot be made simpler than that.

 

[Daave]

In Daave typed on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 23:22:13 -0400:

[...] Problem #2: The installation can fail if there are devices
connected to the PC. Therefore, it is best to disconnect all
perpipheral devices (e.g., USB external hard drives, printers, etc.)
and configure a Clean Boot environment (because certain anti-malware
programs that run in the background can interfere with the upgrade).
See: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353

Make sure to download the standalone SP3 installer like Shenan
advised! (Or make your own SP3 CD from the .iso file available.)

Sounds like it is best to install SP3 in Safe Mode, if it will let
you. Or maybe that isn't a good idea since you won't see much of your
system and guess wrong when it installs files.

You snipped away my recommendation to configure a clean boot and then
install SP3. But others have successfully installed it in Safe Mode.
Since I haven't done so, I don't personally recommend it, but still it's
better than installing with McAfee running!