Most Windows XP users are hesitant when it comes to upgrading or taking advantage of new Service Packs that Microsoft releases to update their computer systems. In fact, several users report distinct issues that they begin experiencing after such Service Packs have been installed in the past.
What are Service Packs & What do they Do?
These Service Packs are designed to update your computer and to provide it with appropriate fixes and protection. However, if you do experience issues after downloading and installing a Service Pack from Windows, you can simply run a System Restore in order to return to your most stable version of Windows.
When it comes to Windows XP Service Pack 3, you should first be aware that it will automatically provide you with every update and fix that was included in the previous Service Pack releases. Therefore, it does not matter what the latest Service Pack on your computer is. Windows XP Service Pack 3 will provide you with every single update and fix that was included in past versions of the Service Packs.
The first thing that many people are shocked by is the fact that Windows XP Service Pack 3 does not include Windows Internet Explorer 7. This Service Pack does include updates for both Windows Internet Explorer 6 and 7, but it does include the entire package. Therefore, if you want to install Windows Internet Explorer 7 on your computer you will have to do so separately.
The first series of updates in Windows XP Service Pack 3 are system updates and files that you can also download individually from Microsoft and that are not unique to Windows XP Service Pack 3. These files include:
· MMC 3.0
· MSXML6
· Microsoft Windows Installer 3.1 v2
· Background Intelligent Transfer Service 2.5
· IPSec Simple Policy Update for Windows Server 2003 and Windows XP
· Digital Identity Management Service
· Peer Name Resolution Protocol 2.1
· Remote Desktop Protocol 6.1
· Wi-Fi Protected Access 2
Windows XP Service Pack 3 also includes new updates and files that you cannot download as standalone programs from Microsoft. These new updates and functions include:
· “Black Hole” Router Detection
· Network Access Protection
· CredSSP Security Service Provider
· Descriptive Security Options User Interface
· Enhanced Security for Administrator and Service Policy Entries
· Microsoft Cryptographic Module
· Windows Product Activation
Windows XP Service Pack 3 can be acquired from the Microsoft Website. Additionally, if you have Automatic Updates switched to “on” on your computer system you may have already installed this Service Pack without knowing it. However, if you do not have Automatic Updates turned “on” you can simply visit the Microsoft website and can run a scan of your computer. The website will then show you which updates are available for your computer and it will assist you in downloading and installing them.
It is recommended that all Windows XP users take full advantage of Windows Service Pack 3 to ensure the quality of their computer experience and to ensure their complete computer protection.
