Much has been made of the latest Service Pack (SP2) from Microsoft for it's popular Windows XP operating system (OS). With security as it's primary focus, it has been publicised as an essential update for all who run the OS.

Key features:

• Safer browsing & communications -
• Internet Explorer pop-up blocker, download monitor, information bar & add-on manager.
• Outlook Express privacy Update & attachment manager
• Powerful Security Tools -
• Windows Security Centre
• Windows Firewall update with simple compatibility setup & enhanced startup/shutdown support.
• Automatic Updates enhancements
• Improved Experiences -
• Improved wireless networking support
• Bluetooth technologies
• Windows Media Player 9 Series
• Direct X update

Yet, despite all these improvements, many users who have applied SP2 have come to regret it. With PC's that refuse to boot or instabilities that have meant a complete rebuild of the OS from scratch.

Here are a few tips which should prevent you from making the same mistakes.

1. If in doubt whether it will cause problems - DON'T DO IT!
   If you aren't reasonably sure it's going to work without causing any problems just don't install it. You can still install individual security patches via the Windows update service to cure critical security problems.
   
2. Decide on what PC firewall you are going to use.
   Many users already have PC firewall software installed, e.g. ZoneAlarm or Norton Internet Security. If these products are correctly configured you don't need another firewall. Many reports have noted problems with having SP2 installed alongside these 3rd party products.
3. Whilst the IE improvements are very worthwhile, users who find pop-up's annoying will have found a pop-up blocker already. As for the firewall issue above, decide which solution you will use before deciding if SP2 is right for you.
4. Are you using wireless networking or Bluetooth technology?
   If you aren't then this isn't a good reason in itself to risk the update.
5. Windows Media Player and Direct X updates are available independently of SP2 so you don't need SP2 for these updates.
6. So, you've considered all the Pro's & Con's of installing SP2 and have decided it's for you. What next?
   Prepare for the worst!
   Document everything: applications installed, configuration settings, etc. Write it all down and have it accessible in black and white.
   Any IT systems used for business should have this already. If you don't, it's well overdue!
   In general terms, users need to be able to reinstall all software and set it up. If you can't do this, certainly don't apply SP2.
   If you have a PC with the same or very similar hardware and applications installed, try installing SP2 on it first.
   Ensure you have the latest versions of software installed. Many vendors have released updates to deal specifically with issues resulting from SP2. Check them out but be aware that these updates could cause their own problems.
7. Backup all essential data! You must have at least 2 backups of all your important data. You need to be able to restore this data in the event that the PC needs to have the hard disk formatted and Windows reinstalled.

Now check out the official Microsoft things to know page before you go any further.

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