MS XP SP2 "patch"

[Spathiphyllum]

For those of you still going down the MS OS path, consider this before patching:

Spyware interferes with Microsoft patch

Quick Info
File Name: WindowsXP-KB835935-SP2-ENU.exe
Download Size: 272391 KB
Date Published: 8/10/2004
Version: SP2

Also, if you don't use automatic update, your "patch" is over 272 megabytes.

That seems like a lot... is it? I bet you could fit an entire operating system in there somewhere; but then again, what do I know?

[Vin DSL]

I don't run XP, but I'm an avid reader of current events, and so forth, and my impression is... instead of simply upgrading, the better option would be to wipe your drives clean and start with a fresh installation of XP - then upgrade immediately after doing your 'virgin' install.

The problem is, most XP systems are packed with worms, viruses, spyware, malware, corrupt files, and all the rest - even files that have been changed by YOU, on purpose, through various software updates, yada, yada, yada. There is NO way to undo all the damage that is (probably) present on most systems.

[Spathiphyllum]

A purge-n-patch might be the safest way, drastic as it is. Problem is you lose all those customized preferences you set for all of your other software too. That's really what takes so much time when "rebuilding" one's computer.

I guess everyone gets to evaluate convenience vs. security.

Either way, it sure exemplifies the benefit of keeping the OS and one's data on different physical drives. No need to separate/back-up that valuable archive while the OS gets renovated.

[shwn]

Also, if you don't use automatic update, your "patch" is over 272 megabytes.

MS will send a CD, free (no shipping and handling charges either) and fast. I got mine in just a week or two!

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/d...s/default.mspx

[lokki]

I updated without a problem. But, I run defrag every two weeks, Norton virus and system check every night, and AdAware every other day. I'm also using a hosts file, though just the basics for a firewall.

So far, so good... it's just annoying as all hell; popups telling you this or that is blocked, scripts failing, warnings about unsafe behaviours by other applications.

Oh my god... Windows has become Liberal!!

[Spathiphyllum]

...I run defrag every two weeks, Norton virus and system check every night, and AdAware every other day...

[lokki referring to incessant warnings] Oh my god... Windows has become Liberal!!

Part the first - and I thought I was paranoid!

Part the second -