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XP sp2 -> sp3 question

  • 23-08-2010 07:43PM
    #1
    jc77
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 574 ✭✭✭


    Following a fresh xp sp2 install, and applying all sp2 updates, I've installed sp3. Should it ever happen that I have to reinstall windows, will my original xp sp2 serial work for the sp3 iso which I've now downloaded from the microsoft website?

    Or, will I have to reinstall sp2, apply all updates and then install sp3?


Comments

  • #2
    TouchingVirus
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,581 ✭✭✭TouchingVirus


    When installing, just install the version of Windows that you have on CD/DVD. Then just install the latest service pack. The Service Pack (SP) is a bundle of all previous updates with a few extra features (sometimes).

    There was no need to install Windows SP2 and run Windows Update before installing SP3 - Just install SP3 or SP4 or whatever. Also, there's no need to run SP3 and then SP4 ..go for the latest Service Pack all the time.

    And your serial code is valid for the version of Windows, not the Service Pack level. So your serial will work with any version of Windows XP


  • #3
    Fysh
    Moderators, Arts Moderators, Regional Abroad Moderators, Paid Member Posts: 11,203 Mod ✭✭✭✭Fysh


    TouchingVirus wrote: »
    When installing, just install the version of Windows that you have on CD/DVD. Then just install the latest service pack. The Service Pack (SP) is a bundle of all previous updates with a few extra features (sometimes).

    There was no need to install Windows SP2 and run Windows Update before installing SP3 - Just install SP3 or SP4 or whatever. Also, there's no need to run SP3 and then SP4 ..go for the latest Service Pack all the time.

    That's the theory, but Microsoft managed to make SP1 a prerequisite for the installation of SP2 for Windows XP. On top of this, Microsoft recommend having SP2 installed before installing SP3. Tedious, but there you go.

    A better idea, IMO, is to look into creating an nlite disc for reinstallation purposes. You can slipstream in service packs and drivers for your hardware, reducing the overall time taken for a reinstall. Obviously you should always retain your original media and licence documentation, as nlite (or any other equivalent tool) is just a way of simplifying reinstallation.


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