Windows Defender / Microsoft Security Update / XP Service Packs...HELP.

Question

Does Windows Defender support all Windows XP Service Packs?

Is Windows Defender better than Spybot - Search and Destroy?

Where do I find out what Service Pack I have?

Can I download a new Service Pack from microsoft.com?

Also, is it okay to download the Windows XP Security Update from here: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?familyid=980BB421-950F-4825-8039-44CC961A47B8&displaylang=en

Answer 1

Windows Defender supports all versions of XP and Vista.

You should run both Defender and Spybot S&D.  No one piece of software for adware/spyware detection will find every instance of malware out on your hard drive.

Right click on the My computer icon and select properties.  At the top of the general tab is listed your version of Windows and the support pack level you are running currently.

It is okay to run the specific security update from the link you posted by why not use the Microsoft automated update service that checks your system for all critical updates?  You can get to it at the link below.

Answer 2

You can find the service pack on start\control panel\system.

The first tab will show what version of Windows is installed and what service pack as well as the installed physical ram.

Windows [or Microsoft] Update should offer you any uninstalled security updates and service packs.

Windows Defender seems to be set very conservatively as far as finding problems, Spybot-S&D will usually identify more.

Answer 3

Windows Defender is a pointless program..

Security updates and service packs however are important.

To answer your other question, no.. Windows Defender is not better than Spybot, I recommend Spybot over a Microsoft "security" system any day.

If you want security, there are two main things you need to have.. an antivirus and a firewall. Get those, keep your system clean, your good. Send me a message if you have any questions.

jackal_sbcc