How to Upgrade Windows XP From SP1 to SP2

Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) contains applications that enhance the stability and security of operating systems that have currently have Service Pack 1 installed on them. You can use automatic updates from your desktop or go online to the Windows Update website to easily download and install SP2 on your computer.

Instructions

Automatic Updates

1. Close all open programs, right-click on "My Computer" and then click "Properties" to see which which service pack is installed on your computer. If you already have SP2 or SP3, you don't need to upgrade your system.

2. Click on the "Start" icon and then click "Run."

3. Type "sysdm.cpl" in the allotted space and click "OK" or press the "Enter" key.

4. Select the "Automatic Updates" tab to ensure that your computer is set to "Automatically download recommended updates for my computer and install them."

5. Click "OK" and automatic updates will download and install SP2 on your computer.

Windows Update

1. Open your web browser and navigate to the Windows Update website.

2. Select "Express (Recommended)" so that Windows Update can quickly find the programs that are needed for your computer. The search may take awhile. When it's done, any programs you need to install before you install SP2 will be listed.

3. Click "Install" to download and install the prerequisite programs for SP2. Allow Windows Update to perform the installation (this may require your computer to be restarted).

4. Go back to the Windows Update website again, do another update and Windows XP SP2 will appear.

5. Click on "Install" to download and install SP2 on your computer.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to obtain the latest Windows XP service pack

Resources

• Windows Update