Automatic updates is apperantly "on" but I do not have SP3. I'm now wondering exactly how many updates I may have missed and what to do to make sure things are running smoothly again.

Using Windows XP Home Edition SP2 Version 2002

Windows won't install service pack 3 without you telling it to. You can go to update.microsoft.com or you can download the installer. I recommend the download.

You may have an issue with your Windows Updates so please read You will get Windows Updates like it or not. It is very important to read through the entire article. I have had my WU turned off since I read the article. There is so much update information on the internet about when to update. If you turned yours off it is the second Tuesday in each month.

I have also included two other links that may assist you in getting all your WU downloaded and installed.

Windows Update has encountered an error

Windows Update Tutorial. Please start at Method 2.

Let us know your progress,

kind regards,

I fully agree with tallin.

I stopped at SP2. System runs just fine. (I'm somewhat known as a renegade here though.) I run Avast! and Comodo (Firewall ONLY), all the other MS junk (IMHO) services (Start, Run, services.msc) turned off.

Have you not noted before that most people aren't experienced enough in their computing practices to do so safely? Is this something that you recommend that the average joe do? Perhaps you need to ad a disclaimer.

I advise no one run auto updates from anyone.

Be it Sun or Adobe or Microsoft etc. Turn off auto updaters.

Monitor your computer and consider available updates but do so as a routine maintenance program and not as automatic tool/fool.

So called average people need to learn to take more responsibility in their machines unless they want to constantly end up in help forums and or shops.

These help forums are an educational experience that we all engage in.

Turning OFF Auto Updates is a big first step.

Review all updates before installing. Take control.

townsbg,
Whom are you addressing?

EDIT: Whoos, jephree slipped in while I was typing.

You dan. As for jephree's comment on educational resource, I would like to think that it helps but that depends upon the user.

Personally, I don't like windows auto update and I turn it off on my computer however it's convenient for someone who trusts MS and doesn't want to take the time to do it them self or to learn about it.

All good advice in my humble opinion from Dan, Jephree

@ townbg Take a peek at Step # 3 this link described in more detail what I suggest members may like to do with their Windows Updates.

I hope it helps with this topic.

kind regards,

People who don't want to take the time to DIY or learn either deserve the @ $125 per hour tech fee or end up here.

Computers need maintenance.

Learn to do it yourself or else pay.