Should I install Windows XP SP3?

[Cube4]

Should I install Windows XP Service Pack 3? Will it break any applications I have installed?

 

[Cutlass]

I would, and it shouldn't. However there are some people who have reported problems.

 

[warpus]

It doesn't have dx10 support, does it?

 

[Speedo]

I've had it running on a new comp that I built for my dad, no problems there so far. On my main comp I'll probably just wait until they push it out with automatic updates.

 

[Aramazd]

Yes, it works fine.

It doesn't have dx10 support, does it?

No, DX10 is only on Vista.

 

[innonimatu]

Should I install Windows XP Service Pack 3? Will it break any applications I have installed?

You will eventually have to install it. It shouldn't cause any problem, but I've sen rare cases of systems going into endless reboots - in one instance even when applied to a clean install of XP SP2 on an old Pentium 3! It seems Microsoft may not have tested it throughly with old hardware.

You can uninstall if if you have problems. This might be useful in such an event.

 

[ainwood]

The installation process might not work flawlessly.... To install, I had to do a clean boot.

Step 1: Start the System Configuration Utility

Start - Run - msconfig-ok

Step 2: Configure Selective Startup Options:
General Tab: Clear "Process System INI file", clear Process WIN INI file, clear Load Startup Items but do NOT clear Load System Services
Services Tab: Select "Hide All Microsoft Services", then select "Disable All" then OK.

Restart when prompted.

Install XP SP3 on the reboot (click to select "Dont Show this message...etc)

after install completes, run msconfig again and select Normal Startup

 

[damunzy]

SP3 requires a HUGE system restore point, on the magnitude of 5035 MB IIRC:
http://techtalk.pcpitstop.com/2008/...p3-still-not-ready-news-flash-do-not-install/

 

[Genocidicbunny]

Its also been implicated with some routers having problems such as reboots and frequent disconnects.

 

[damunzy]

Hmm, I wonder if that is happening to me. I have been having a lot of Internet connection issues with my router lately and I have my XP box updated to SP3....

 

[Genocidicbunny]

Then read this article: http://apcmag.com/router_crashes_blamed_on_windows_xp_sp3.htm

Maybe you have that router.

 

[Cube4]

Well I've decided to wait a while before I install SP3.

 

[Mise]

Why do I need SP3?