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Windows XP Service Pack 2
Help and Tips

Downloading, installing, and using Windows XP Service Pack 2. Installation troubleshooting, disabling automatic updates, potential software difficulties after upgrading Windows XP, and more.

#1: Plan for an Hour at Least
You'll need plenty of time to download and install Windows XP Service Pack 2.

#2: Software that Will No Longer Function
Browse a list of software packages that may no longer work when you install Service Pack 2 for Windows XP.

#3: How to Download
How to download and install Windows XP Service Pack 2.

#4: Stop Firewall, Anti-Virus, and/or Automatic Update Alerts
Prevent the Windows XP Service Pack 2 Security Center from alerting you whenever it cannot detect the status of an older firewall or anti-virus program.

#5: List of Fixes
Browse through a list of fixes available in Windows XP Service Pack 2.

#6: Full-Screen Multiplayer Games Fail
Play a lot of multiplayer games on your Windows XP computer? Here's why some of them may fail after upgrading to Service Pack 2 and what you can do about it.

#7: Visit Computer Manufacturer Websites for Updates
Before installing Windows XP Service Pack 2, check your computer manufacturer for BIOS or driver updates. Here's a list of some popular PC manufacturer websites.

#8: Check for Spyware Before Updating
Clean your Windows XP machine of spyware before installing Service Pack 2 to help ensure a smooth upgrade. Here's how.

#9: Computer Restarts Continuously
A UMAX scanner may prevent Windows XP from running smoothly when you install Service Pack 2.

#10: Update Software Before Installing
Update key software before installing Windows XP Service Pack 2 to help ensure a smooth upgrade.