Is it essential to install the Windows XP SP3?

Question

I have been told by other people not to bother unless microsoft forces it onto the computer. I have always updated using Windows Update. I am quite happy to install it but I am just worried that my system will slow down or run into problems. "If its working dont fix it"

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

No, it is not essential, it will not slow down your computer, and its just a lot of updates in one. It will automatically appear in windows updates. I suggest getting it because it will only improve your computer and not slow it down.

Answer 2

My choice for OS is Vista, but I've heard that the sp3 for xp is a critical update. I believe I read that in PC World online.

Answer 3

I updated to SP3 about 3 months ago and have had no problems at all.

As soon as i had installed it I noticed that my system was working faster.

Answer 4

Your best bet is to wait until the benefits of SP3 have been exploited until then stay with SP2 which has held up for many years with no problems, and like you said wait till its almost neccesary to install or unless you see any potential benefits which you could gain from.

Answer 5

As others have said it is just all the other updates in one package and a couple of extras.

Personally, I would install it as you know your system is then up to date and it also speeds the computer up slightly I have found.

Answer 6

Nope:

They just put up all the previous updates in one file.

and called them SP3.

Your SP2 will be just fine.

If you install it. It will just refresh the updates the already have and it will still run at the same speed as before

Answer 7

Well i installed it had no problems,No one i know has had problems either.The choice is yours.