Advice within:
before you start windows update
defrag, turn off anti virus programs, firewall and most "memory resident programs"
Installing Windows Service Pack 2 (SP2)
Before you begin: It's a good idea to make sure your computer is free of viruses. Heck, a defrag wouldn't hurt either! But most importantly, if you only have dial up access to the internet - get the CD. Even with broadband, the download takes at least 1 hour - sometimes up to 2 hours. The install takes about 1 to 2 more hours on top of that. Watch out midway. There is a popup window that requests you to click on NEXT. And yes, it creates a system restore checkpoint.
Are there any gotcha's? Yes. Microsoft lists quite a few programs that may not work with SP2. For instance Firewalls, like Blackice and Norton Internet Security. From what I've seen with SP2 - its firewall is good enough. Mind you, SP2 does not recognize your anti-virus, so you will have to change 'Recommendation' to "I'll keep it up to date manually."
Best part of SP2? The "open by default" security is gone. Now, popups are automatically blocked (yes, you can click the yellow bar under the address bar to allow popups temporarily or for that site). Activex is stopped (yeah!). There is a download dialog box that now forces you to say "Yes I want this download" - but that's one level of annoyance I'll gladly accept.
Can you still get viruses while on SP2? Yes. Can you still get popups? Yes. You don't think the Microsoft haters would go away - did you?
But all in all, SP2 is a very good effort on behalf of Microsoft. Just wish they had STARTED their security efforts years ago!
For more information try: http://support.microsoft.com/xpsp2swhw
