Before installing SP-2 or if you have issues related to installing Windows XP SP-2, Click Here

This check list is not for everyone.  This checklist is intended to cover the majority of problem encountered while attempting to install a Service Pack.  This checklist is designed for Windows XP, however most steps can apply to any operating system.

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Notes for Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1
This checklist was specifically written for Windows XP, however the same general steps can apply to most operating systems.
Download Service Pack 1 for Windows Server 2003
Hard Disk Space Requirements for Windows Server 2003 SP-1

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Automatic Update is Microsoft's preferred method to get Windows XP Service Pack 2
Starting 16 August 16 2004, Windows XP computers set to Automatically Update (AU) started receiving Service Pack 2.  Not all computers, just a limited number a day.  This will continue until all Windows XP computers set to AU have SP-2 installed.
The Automatic Update process could take several weeks before SP-2 is installed on all computers.
To set for AU:
Right click My Computer, click Properties
Click Automatic Update tab.
Check "Automatic (recommended)"
Click OK and follow prompts.
Many people, myself included, feel Automatic Update is not the best.
You are better able to avoid internet issues and other possible issues if you have SP-2 on CD or at least in a file on the hard drive.
If you pay for bandwidth or you are limited on internet time, you may be better off using one of the options listed in Step 1 below.
Regardless which method you choose, look at the checklist and make sure your computer is ready.
Malware and viruses, whether known or unknown are some of the major causes of issues relating to SP-2 installation.
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***If you are installing Windows XP Service Pack 2***
"At 1.6mb there may be a pause in the download while update.exe runs an inventory
to figure out exactly what files need to be downloaded, based on the system
configuration. The delay for this inventory phase can be as little as 3
minutes, and as great as 30 minutes (or more) on a slow machine. Once
inventory completes, download and installation will continue."
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If you have a Prescott CPU, STOP and check with the manufacturer before continuing.  Installation of Windows XP SP-2 may not be possible at this time.  Also see Your computer stops responding when you restart to complete the installation of Windows XP Service Pack 2
Here is the patch:
Critical Update for Windows XP (KB885626)
Windows XP Service Pack 2 is not available to install from Windows Update and is not offered by Automatic Updates

The steps in red should be accomplished just before the installation.  The other steps may only be necessary if there are problems.  If you anticipate installation issues, perform all steps.

*****PRINT THIS CHECKLIST*****

Try installing Windows XP Service Pack 2 this way:
1.  Do not use Express Installation.
Order Service Pack 2 on CD
Download the Network Installation from here: (be sure to select the correct language)
Download Windows XP Service Pack
DSL takes about 20 minutes, if you do not have high speed access, get a friend to D/L SP2 for you.
Then burn it to a CD and keep for the future.

2.  It is best to resolve current issues BEFORE installing Service Packs.

3.  Data should be safe, back-up important data just in case if you do not already have a back-up plan.

4.  Check to make sure you have all updated drivers.  Also be sure any mission critical software is supported by SP2

5.  You should have at least 2gb free space (Less than half that is needed for Windows XP SP2, but if you are that close, you need to start looking for ways to free space or add another hard drive.)