Windows XP Service Pack 2

What is Service Pack 2?

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 is the latest collection of critical operating system updates and security patches for your computer. It includes new security features not included in earlier versions of Windows XP, such as the Windows Firewall, Security Center, and Internet Explorer Pop-up blocker. A complete list of new features is available on the Microsoft website.

Why should I install it?

The ResNet AUP requires that you keep your operating system updated. Service Pack 2 enhances your computer's security by patching a number of security vulnerabilities in the operating system. There are also numerous improvements to the operating system itself, including wireless support, internet explorer download monitoring and privacy features. Microsoft has published a list of reasons why you should install Service Pack 2 on the Microsoft website.

What should I do before I install Service Pack 2?

  1. Make sure your anti-virus software is updated, and scan and clean your computer of any viruses.
  2. Use Ad-Aware (make sure it is updated) and Microsoft Windows Defender (Beta) to clean your computer of any spyware.
  3. Make sure all the software on your computer has the latest updates.
  4. Check your computer manufacturer's website for any information they may have about Service Pack 2.
  5. Make sure your computer hardware has all the latest drivers. For more information on drivers, check here.

Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.

Where can I get it?

You have three options. You can download it from Microsoft Windows Update, or you can come by the ResNet office during our phone support hours to pick up a CD. You will need to bring a Photo ID (ie. student ID, driver's license) to check out a copy. Lastly, many of the RAs and HAs have a copy as well, so feel free to ask them!

Troubleshooting:

I get an error message during the installation, mentioning something about a product key.

This usually means that you are using an unlicensed copy of Windows XP. Did you purchase your copy of Windows XP? Visit Microsoft's How-To-Tell to learn more information about how you can tell whether or not your copy of XP is legal.

I get an error message during the installation, mentioning something about cryptographic service.

This problem can occur if the Cryptographic Service has been disabled or if the c:\windows\system\catroot2 folder is corrupt. To correct this issue, click on Start, then Run, then type in 'services.msc' and press enter. The Services window should pop up. Scroll down this list until you find "Cryptographic Services." Right-click on this and go to properties. Make sure that the start-up type is set to automatic, and ensure that the service is started. Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.

I installed Service Pack 2 and now my Internet doesn't work.

Do you have third party firewall software such as Norton Internet Security, McAfee Personal Firewall, or Zone Labs Zone Alarm? These programs can become corrupt during the Service Pack 2 installation, effectively breaking your internet connection. To fix this, uninstall the firewall software and reinstall it.

If this is not the case, ensure that your network adapter is enabled. To do this, click on Start, then Control Panel (the Control Panel is located under the Settings Folder if you are using the Classic Start Menu), and then on Network Connections (If you do not see network connections, please select "Switch to Classic View" in the leftmost pane of the window). Now right-click on "Local Area Connection" (this may be followed with a number), and select Enable. If you do not see this option, then your network connection is already enabled. Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.

I installed Service Pack 2 and now my computer will not start up.

In the rare case that this happens, you will need to repair your Windows installation using the Windows XP disk that shipped with your computer. This occurs most often in systems that had been infected with lots of spyware and malware prior to the Service Pack 2 installation. Additionally, this could be a strong indication of incompatible hardware, in which case you will need to obtain the latest drivers and firmware for your hardware prior to the Service Pack 2 installation. Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.

My machine runs a lot slower than it did before I installed Service Pack 2.

The first thing you should try is de-fragmenting your hard drive. Service Pack 2 replaces many core operating system files, so their placement on the hard drive may not be optimal. To de-fragment your hard drive, click Start, then All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, then Disk Defragmenter. Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.

Why does Internet Explorer block my popups now?

The latest revision of Microsoft's Internet Explorer contains built-in pop-up blocking capabilities. If you are not satisfied with this feature, you can turn it off. In Internet Explorer, select Tools, then Internet Options. Select the Connections tab, and uncheck "Block Pop-ups." Contact us at any point if you have questions or need help.