Preparing a system for Windows XP SP2:
1. A system should be clean! Run AV and spyware/adware program, maybe even an online scan for each also.
2. Read as much as you can about what to check after a significant D/L like this. It was clearly stated that it would cause some changes in settings-so that would be the best to check right away.
3. Create your own System Restore Point before ANY update from MS. It is not uncommon for an update to cause some system problem.
4. Know what the update will bring to your system and what that means. In the case of SP2, the Windows firewall would be on by default. IF you have another firewall, make the decision right away which you want to run. Likely best choice will be other than Windows firewall as it only looks at incoming traffic, not outgoing.
5. If you have one of the Security Suites that are so common now, know what it has and does in order to prevent a conflict. Rule of Thumb: only 1 firewall, only 1 AV program, at least two spyware/adware programs.
6. Disabling the Windows firewall requires: bringing up the Security Center and clicking to stop the firewall and making sure the 'Windows Firewall' Service is disabled and stopped.
I had notice its really under msconfig but who wants load it diagnostically and then run through to start each of the services.. any suggestions?
When making changes to the Startup menu, you must remain in Selective Startup to keep those changes. After making the changes and rebooting, you will get a nag message about 'diagnostic mode'- CLOSE that message after checking 'don't show this message again;.
When you go to access Startup:
Start> Run> type in msconfig and enter. choose Selective Startup> Startup tab> Make changes and Apply> OK> Reboot