Once you have installed the service pack you should check back for additional updates. Microsoft recommends installing SP1 because it includes many of updates to help keep your computer secure. Please disable anti-virus software while installing the service pack. Anti-virus software programs may interfere with the installation of Windows XP SP1. Windows XP SP1 includes Internet Explorer 6 SP1. Simply put, SP1 (the simple, garden-variety one) is essential in order to get to the next steps. All (even the SP1a version) are lacking a file 'asms' (or something similar - I'm writing that by memory).

To minimize the download time needed for installation, setup will only download those files which are required to bring your computer up to date. There are many Service Pack versions available (SP1 for Windows XP Office Edition, Service Pack 1a, SP 2, SP 3) but not the original SP1. All of these services are Standard with Windows XP after the installation of Service Pack 1a. The maximum download size is approximately 30 MB, however the size of the download and time required may be less for computers that have had updates previously installed. Service settings are global, meaning changes apply to all users. Windows XP SP1 is designed to ensure Windows XP platform compatibility with newly released software and hardware, and includes updates to resolve issues discovered by customers or by Microsoft's internal testing team. Description: Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) provides the latest security, reliability, and performance updates to the Windows XP family of operating systems.

Windows xp service pack 1