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What Is Windows XP Service Pack 3?

by Mark Baggesen
for About.com

Windows XP SP3

Windows XP SP3

Question: What Is Windows XP Service Pack 3?
Answer: Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) is the latest service pack for XP, issued in April 2008. It includes all previously released Windows XP updates (i.e. SP1, SP2).

What versions of XP does it support?

Windows XP; Windows XP Home Edition ; Windows XP Home Edition N; Windows XP Media Center Edition; Windows XP Professional Edition ; Windows XP Professional N; Windows XP Service Pack 1; Windows XP Service Pack 2; Windows XP Starter Edition; Windows XP Tablet PC Edition

Where can I get it?

You can download it directly from Microsoft’s web site .

Do I need it?

Yes. You need it because it may be a long time before Microsoft issues another Service Pack for XP.

Will I notice a performance difference after I install it?

You will probably not see much difference in SP3 over SP2. Much of what these updates are about has to do with improving security and correcting problems that cause applications to crash.

How long will it take to install?

It could take 30 minutes or longer, depending on what version of XP you have and what steps you will need to perform before installing the update.

Will SP3 damage my file system? Should I backup my files before upgrading?

It is unlikely that the update will damage your files. However, you should ALWAYS backup your work so that files are located in two different physical places (such as on your PC and on a CD or other computer).

It is important that you read and follow these directions before installing the SP3 update.

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