SP2 is it worth it

[starzwell]

Ok seriously concidering putting on SP2 at home. I've heard horror stories and that's why isn't not on there now.

My system: New Foxcon MB, 80hd, cable modem, I use USB a lot, XP Pro, NVida digital video card 64mb (digital = it has a white hook up on it rather than blue for the monitor), DVD burner the rest is normal stuff.



Steph

http://www.getfirefox.com

 

[jdemmi]

IMO I think so. I applied it as soon as it came out and have had no NEW problems.

-- Jason
"It's Just Ones and Zeros

 

[eyec]

if you don't upgrade soon you stand to lose more.

i upgraded the first day it became available & have not had any problems.

however, i read the tips/tricks/advice offered by MS prior to upgrading. i did not have any of the conflicting soft/hardware mentioned.

after you do the upgrade grab the spyware beta also.

 

[bcastner]

It is easy enough to uninstall if you have an issue. Try it.

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=875350&product=windowsxpsp2

I would use the CD distribution rather than a download or Windows Update. They are widely available, or can be ordered (they come pretty quickly):

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/downloads/updates/sp2/cdorder/en_us/default.mspx

Before installing SP2, install the Recovery Console:

http://support.microsoft.com/defaul...efault.aspx?scid=kb;en-gb;307654&ln=en-gb

The last advice I can give is after you have installed SP2, make a "slipstream" with your XP CD. This greately simplifies use SFC - the system file checker, and other odds and ends of maintenance. A nifty utility that will do the work for you: thread779-900263

Best wishes,
Bill Castner

 

[eyec]

bcastner,

in a nutshell can you explain "slipstreaming". i have seen it mentioned and have not taken the time yet to check it out. (not lazy, just busy with other problems)

thanks,

 

[jdemmi]

http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_sp2_slipstream.asp

-- Jason
"It's Just Ones and Zeros

 

[BitFuzzy]

Fact of the matter is this.

If you don't do the SP2 update now, fine that's by your choice (I haven't either) "BUT" you should know that at some point (I believe may or june) you will get it regardless if you want it or not.

 

[dakota81]

SP2 is okay, but every time I turn around I find something new about it that annoys me. Basicaly, Microsoft is moving towards the philosiphy that if the user is not allowed to run any software nor are they allowed to access the internet, then the machines will be free from all viruses and other threats.

Or in analogy, if you throw everyone in jail the world will be free from crime. Microsoft is not to that point yet, but I can see it approaching.

 

[linney]

Don't Wait On SP2

http://langa.com/newsletters/2005/2005-01-17.htm

Basically slipstreaming is a case of using your original retail XP CD and the SP2 files, merging the two, and producing a new XP CD which then incorporates the SP2 files.

 

[bcastner]

BitFuzzy,

Not forced. You can always refuse the upgrade.
But see:

http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=gp/lifean9

 

[eyec]

final question on slipstreaming (don't want to hijaack this thread)

if one of the directories from the original XP cd uses non-MS DOS names and you change it will it still work?

example
Original CD folder name = $OEM$

Slipstream Copy CD folder name _OEM_

 

[bcastner]

It really only cares about \i386

Rename the folder. But be carefull you have a full XP install CD and not one of those lame Recovery CDs.

 

[eyec]

thanks

 

[NoobX]

Also sp2 automatically blocks pop-ups! And it will not install active-x without your consent! I like it and I would recommend that you download it or later on down the road once you are malware infested you woulda wish that u did!

 

[grubgal]

Firefox automatically blocks popups also. Use it and you won't become malware infested.

 

[aquias]

I've gotta say, playing with FireFox I do like it, but it won't protect against all types of malware (nothing alone will). SP2's enhanced firewall is one of the bigger advantages it brings to the table, but beyond that I would recommend moving to SP2 to keep your system secure.

Many virus' and malware programs are written to exploit specific functions of the software. Now, as new updates are released old exploits are fixed and new ones created. However, the more out of date you are the more succeptible you become to something that you could have easily avoided.

SP2, IMO, brings a lot more to the table in the way of advantages vs problems. I'd say step up and install it, just run through a few pages of what you need to help avoid any problems.

 

[jimp56]

I concur about firefox. it is NOT immune as many would have you think - just a little less vulnerable at best.

a hardware firewall (router), common sense security practices coupled with sp2 (and updates) and a suite of malware scanners and A/V programs will keep you "clean." (sad that you need a suite of products, but true).

you may have to go through the bother of configuring the xp firewall to keep certain things working, and you have to deal with the security center's annoying prevalence, but its a small price to pay for a higher level of immunity. (not to mention the nifty popup blocker!)

I have been totally free of any malware/virii since upgrading to sp2 when it first came out(and keeping current with updates). worst thing any of my scanners ever find are cookies. and i havent reimaged or run into any major problems since (of course i just jinxed myself lol).

major consideration: be sure to clean up the system beforehand as best as possible, then install SP2 via the cd available from microsoft, or the full download package. DONT rely on auto update to do it correctly. you will most likely be sorry if you did.

 

[NoobX]

The best way to keep yourself safe is to watch what you download, and make backups regurlary!