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
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
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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Hot Items: Windows XP on eBay
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Latest News: Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byWindows XP Products On Amazon
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition FULL VERSION with SP2
Release Date: 09/28/2004
Amazon Price: $169.99 (as of 10/12/2008)
![Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP2B for System Builders [OLD VERSION]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41BNM33EH0L._SL75_.jpg)
Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition SP2B for System Builders [OLD VERSION]
Amazon Price: $89.99 (as of 10/12/2008)
Windows XP For Dummies, 2nd Edition
Amazon Price: $14.95 (as of 10/12/2008)
Microsoft Windows XP Professional FULL VERSION with SP2
Release Date: 09/28/2004
Amazon Price: $238.40 (as of 10/12/2008)
Microsoft Windows XP Pro x64 Edition SP2C for System Builders - 1 pack
Release Date: 04/03/2008
Amazon Price: $165.28 (as of 10/12/2008)
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