CelTrust Blog

What Is A Service Pack and What About Windows XP Service Pack 3?

What is a service pack? Searching Google I came across an outstanding definition: a collection of bug fixes and improved features; a service pack is an operating system update. But do you need them? The answer of course is YES! (It seems Vista could use an update or two…take my word for it) The latest release for XP is called Service Pack 2 (SP2) and as of August 25, 2004 has been available to anyone with an internet connection and a copy of XP. It helped windows XP become one of the most popular Operating Systems (OS).

How did XPs popularity grow?

• User Friendliness
• Pre-installed on most PCs
• Relatively easy for even novice users to set up

Still overshadowing the latest OS release from Microsoft, XP has a huge user base and because of the simple fact that no one is “downgrading to Vista” (and Microsoft is paying big…literally) support for XP SP2 was extended to April 14, 2009. Owe sounds like the big guy (Microsoft) might fall. Whats next for this multi-billion dollar giant? With Vista blowing the big one, and XP an almost 10 years old OS, Microsoft came up with a plan. Once Bill retires…completely retires…fire Steve Ballmer. heh I wish…just kidding. How about release another Service Pack for XP??? Office XP Service Pack 3 (SP3).

Again what does a Service Pack do? They contain significant security enhancements, in addition to stability and performance improvements, well according to Microsoft thats what Windows XP Service Pack 3 will be doing and if that truly is the case (and the odd number curse is broken) FORGET Vista, XP would undeniably blow Vista out of the water.

But how exactly will SP3 accomplish the task?

• The SP3 update will include every previous XP update. Including all past Service Pack updates.
• It will extend XP support for at least another 2 years.
• Rumors suggest it will increase the general speed at which XP runs.
• An official list of the updates are listed here

So hang tight Windows fans, XP isn’t dead in the water yet, and who knows whats next.

Tags: Security, Service Pack 2, SP2, SP3, updates, Vista, Windows XP, Windows XP Service Pack 3