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ResNet Home » Help Guides » Install SP2

Installing Service Pack 2 for Windows XP


Periodically, Microsoft releases an update to Windows operating systems. These updates contain all the fixes and enhancements. The updates (called Service Packs) provide convenient, all-in-one installation to the most up-to-date drivers, tools, security updates, patches and customer-requested product changes.

Service Pack 2 (SP2) for Windows XP is all about security. It provides better protection against viruses, hackers and worms, and includes a Firewall, Pop-up Blocker for Internet Explorer and the Windows Security Center. These new features are important for keeping all computers on the ResNet running safely.

ResNet requires SP2 be installed before you can connect to the network. If you don't already have SP2 you will need to install it.

Do You Already Have SP2?

Installing SP2 can take a long time. So, before you continue check to see if your computer already has it.

  • Click Start » Control Panel
  • If you see the Security Center icon, you already have SP2 and you don't need to install it.
      OR  
  • If you do not see Security Center, you do not have SP2 and you need to install it.

Installing SP2

Important: Before you install SP2, to avoid potential problems during the installation process; run a spyware removal tool, check your computer manufacturer for SP2 updates and make a back up of your hard drive. For more detailed information, see Microsoft's SP2 page.

Installing from the Internet by using Windows Updates

Note: This process takes several minutes.

  1. Go to the Microsoft's Windows Update site with Internet Explorer: http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com
  2. Click Scan for Updates
    Windows Update scans your computer and displays a list of critical updates, including security updates and service packs.
  3. Under Pick updates to install, click Critical Updates and Service Packs
    Windows Updates creates a list of the updates that are appropriate for your computer. Critical updates are selected for automatic download.
  4. Click Review and install updates
  5. Verify that Windows XP SP2 is selected
  6. Click Install Now and follow the directions. Note: This process takes several minutes.
  7. Once it is finished, it will ask you to restart your computer, do so.
    The first reboot after installation often takes much longer than usual as Service Pack 2 copies files that could not be copied during the main installation phase. This is standard procedure and the computer should boot in a normal fashion once its finished.