Windows XP Service Pack 2 is a major update to Windows XP that focuses mainly on system and network security issues. Please be aware that while we recommend that all DialMaine users update their Windows XP systems with Service Pack 2, we cannot be responsible for any problems that may occur with the update.
The following links provide a significant amount of information on Windows XP Service Pack 2.
Windows XP Service Pack 2 is being released in a staggered fashion because of the high demand. Beta testers and MSDN subscribers will be the first to get SP2. Starting August 18th Windows XP Home users who have automatic updates turned on will start to receive SP2. Windows XP Professional users will start to get SP2 via automatic updates on August 25th. SP2 will be made available to all Windows XP uses via Windows Update starting August 25th. You can also order a free SP2 CD directly from Microsoft, or wait for the CD to appear in retail stores.
* The network installation package is the complete version of Service Pack 2. This is a very large file (272 MB) that most users will probably not want to download. Updating via automatic updates or Windows Update will result in smaller downloads.
If you run any of Symantec's programs such as Norton Anti-Virus or Norton Personal Firewall you will need to update them (using LiveUpdate) so that they can communicate with SP2's new Security Center. Without these updates you might receive warnings regarding your firewall and anti-virus setup even if those programs are up-to-date and running.
It is known that some changes made to Windows XP may cause problems with some software, and Microsoft has prepared a list of programs know to behave differently with SP2.
Symantec Security Check tests your exposure to a wide range of online threats. It's free and efficient, and it helps you determine your Internet security needs.
