Microsoft released all security patches for all W9x, Windows 2000, and XP on a CD as of Oct 2003. I think the cost for S&H was like $9.95. This was like in February of 2004. Getting this CD (if still available) would be nice in your case.
If this isn't an option, then installing both AVG (antivirus checker) and ZoneAlarm (software firewall)before getting on the Internet should be pretty safe (both available free). If not possible, get these from the Internet unprotected. And you can't install ZoneAlarm without rebooting, so hold off until you do this next step.
Install AVG and scan the whole system before any rebooting (and after you logged off of the Internet). As anything you are going to get (viruses, worms, etc) will most likely require a reboot before they actually install. And AVG will remove them before they get a chance to do otherwise.
If none of the above are an option. Then let me know and also if you have high speed Internet access. Maybe I can help more.
Bill
Date: Mon, 14 Feb 2005 17:53:49 -0600
I'd like to install all the post SP4 security fixes on a box before I connect it
to the Internet - so that Windows Update could be used.
Usually, I'd connect it behind a firewall and use Windows Update, but I can't in
this circumstance.
Is there a way to determine which updates are Post SP4 - and possibly the
smaller set of security fixes that are crucial?
