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Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)

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Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)

Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) fixes bugs, enhances security and adds new features to Windows XP. SP3 is available for download and installation via Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Center.

While Service Pack 3 is the last major update planned for Windows XP, Microsoft will continue to provide security patches until April 8, 2014, the "Extended Support Retirement Date".

Table of Contents

  1. Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) Overview
  2. Windows XP Availability Matrix
  3. Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) Installation Guidelines
  4. Helpful Links: Windows XP Updates and Vista Downgrades
  5. Latest News: Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
  6. Windows XP Products On Amazon

Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) Overview

Service Pack 3:
Microsoft's Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) was released to the public on May 6, 2008. It contains over 1,100 fixes and improvements, all of the high-priority updates issued since the 2001 introduction of Windows XP.

SP3 also contains a number of new features, mainly networking and security enhancements developed for Windows Vista.

New features in Service Pack 3:
* Black hole router detection is turned on by default
* Network Access Protection client
* Windows Imaging Component
* Credentials Security Service Provider
* Descriptive Security options in Group Policy/Local Security Policy user interface
* Updates Microsoft Kernel Mode Cryptographic Module to be FIPS 140-2 certified
* Product key is not required for retail and OEM versions during setup

Free Download from Microsoft:
* Windows Update
* Microsoft Download Center
* Automatic Updates

Windows XP Availability Matrix

Retail Copies and New Computers

Retail Copies:
On June 30, 2008, Microsoft stopped selling copies of Windows XP to retail stores and the major computer manufacturers. However, Windows XP will be available from stores until they run out-of-stock.

Copies of the OS are also available from individual sellers on eBay (links to current eBay auctions and Amazon.com sales are listed in sections below).

Exceptions to Microsoft's June 30, 2008 Sales Deadline:
Microsoft made an exception for "system builders", smaller companies that build computers for resale. Their deadline for selling Windows XP is January 31, 2009. Another exception is for Windows XP Home Edition. It will be available until June 30, 2010, but only on low-end computing devices.

New Computers:
Windows XP Professional, pre-installed as a Vista downgrade, is available on new computers from the leading computer manufacturers.

The following link takes you to an overview of Vista downgrading options.

Windows XP Availability Matrix - Home Edition vs. Professional Edition

Windows XP Availability Matrix

Poll: Your Windows XP SP3 Installation Plans

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Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) Installation Guidelines

These Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) installation guidelines will help you avoid installation problems and reflect the best practices for assuring a successful installation of SP3. They include some recommended routines for information protection and computer maintenance.

It usually takes 45-90 minutes to install Windows XP based on your hardware configuration and Internet download speed. Installation from a CD will go a lot faster.

Windows XP Humor 

Helpful Links: Windows XP Updates and Vista Downgrades

Installation Guidelines and Transition Options

Two reasons not to install Windows XP SP3
Key points to consider before installing Service Pack 3.
Free Windows XP SP3 Installation Support
Microsoft is offering Windows XP users free and unlimited technical support for Service Pack 3 installation and compatibility issues
Windows XP SP2 Critical (Security) Updates: Don't Forget to Install Them
If you are not planning to upgrade to Windows XP SP3, don't forget that you still need to install the SP2 Critical Updates as they become available.
Windows XP Service Pack 3 Installation Guidelines
These guidelines include the best practices for assuring a successful installation of SP3
How to Block Windows XP SP3 Installation
This tool from Microsoft prevents installation of service packs obtained with Windows Update.
How to Remove Windows XP Service Pack 3
Well, just in case you need to remove SP3, here is what Microsoft recommends.
Microsoft: The Future of Windows XP
Learn what Microsoft has to say about Windows XP's lifespan, extended support, and other facts about its future.

Poll: The OS for the next computer you buy

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  • Reply
    johnsonyip Jun 17, 2010 @ 4:58 pm | delete
    Hi Nice lense. I always enjoyed Windows XP SP3 it is a fast and reliable Operating System. I have not have many major problems with XP compared to Vista and 7. I like your guide on Windows XP SP3. it is very detailed and easy to read.
  • Reply
    MikeMac Feb 16, 2009 @ 2:31 am | delete
    Hi Donald,

    Interesting Lens. I am a technology consultant and have 50 - 60 SP3 installs under my pelt and have not had a hiccup with a single one. I've read of some other's having problems but have had good success myself.

    I've also done some initial installs of Windows 7. Very slick. stop by by Lens when you have a moment. I also have a Tech Tips blog at: www.htstechtips.com.

    Cheers,
    --Mike
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whittier

My name is Donald French and I am the President of a Boston-based international technical training and consulting firm, IAPS.
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