Help protect your computer with Windows XP Service Pack 2

You hear it all the time in the news: a new Internet virus plaguing computer networks, ridiculous amounts of spam piling up in e-mail inboxes, online identity theft. It’s enough to make anyone wonder whether they’ve done enough to help protect their computer and personal information.

That’s why Service Pack 2 (SP2) for the Windows XP operating system features many important security improvements for Windows—in fact, it’s one of the most important service packs Microsoft has ever released.

With Windows XP SP2, you get better protection against viruses, hackers, and worms with Windows Firewall, Pop-up Blocker for Internet Explorer, and the Windows Security Center.

Microsoft recommends that everyone with Windows XP upgrade to Windows XP SP2 to help improve the security of their computers while using the Internet.

SP2 is available as a free upgrade if you’re already running Windows XP. If you’ve got an older operating system (Windows 98 or Windows Me, for example) and you purchase a Windows XP upgrade, or if you purchase a new computer with Windows XP, SP2 will be included.

How to get Windows XP Service Pack 2

Once you’ve determined that your computer is ready to upgrade to Service Pack 2, there are two ways to get Windows XP SP2:

·          Install from the Windows XP SP2 CD
If you have a Windows XP SP2 CD but haven't installed the update yet, you can do so now. Insert the CD into your computer's CD drive and follow the installation instructions.

·          Download SP2 from Microsoft Update
If you have a high-speed Internet connection (broadband or DSL), downloading SP2 from Microsoft Update is the quickest way to get the update.

·          Order the SP2 CD
You can order the SP2 CD and have it sent to you for free of charge. Please allow 4-6 weeks for shipping, and when you’re done, you can share it with friends and family so that everyone is up to date.

It’s a good idea to prepare your computer for the update. Here’s how to make sure you don’t run into any conflicts between SP2 and any other software on your computer.

1.      Back up your critical information.

2.      Check your computer for spyware and other unwanted software.

3.      Check for special update instructions from your computer's manufacturer.

Related topics

·          Top 10 reasons to install Windows XP SP2

·          Find out which operating system your computer is using