Service Pack 2 Update

Microsoft has released an update for Windows XP Home, Professional, Tablet PC and Media Center editions. The Service Pack 2 (SP2) update grants a number of improvements including a new firewall to keep out unwanted internet threats and easier to use wireless networking setup. For the full list of benefits, see the Microsoft web page on the subject at: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/topten.mspx.

Microsoft also offers help to those unsure about how to download and install the update on the What To Know Before You Install SP2 page. The important points are to ensure you have at least 1.8GB hard drive space free and to make a back up copy of you work before you get started. The update is also over 80MB in size so if you don't have broadband, it is probably best to turn on automatic updates and let the download happen in idle time when you're not at your PC. To learn about turning on automatic updates, open Internet Explorer then in the tools menu select Windows Update.

Some software has known issues with SP2 which in some cases cause crashes. Most companies are in the process of updating their software so if you do experience problems, visit the software company's website to see if an update is available. For a list of software with issues outstanding see Microsoft's support webpage. Business IT managers should take particular note, some of the applications listed may be vital to your operation.