When it comes to the task of upgrading your Windows operating systems, often the best advice is to wait until the first "service pack" is released. This update generally includes all of the fixes and patches (covering such items as usability, stability and security) that have been addressed since the original release of the Operating System, (O/S).

After nearly a year, the first service pack for Windows XP is at hand. The download should be available for free from Microsoft's Web site by September 9th, and it will also be available on a CD for purchase.

While this service pack won't significantly affect users who have previously upgraded (assuming that they have consistently installed updates as they became available) the milestone of the first service pack generally means that most of the major bugs have been discovered and addressed.

It's at this point that the average user can comfortably approach the task of upgrading their operating system, confident that the process will be likely to end in a satisfactory installation.

Of course, there are never any guarantees when it comes to tinkering with the very essence of your computer's operation. Because of this, there are many users who never upgrade their operating system at all; instead simply replacing their computer every three to five years. With the inherent risks that such a process can entail, who can blame them?

However, for those who wish to upgrade, and have waited until the "time is right" that time is most likely now.

Additionally, for any users who have already upgraded to Windows XP but may not have been very diligent in the installation of patches and bug fixes that became available along the way, the first service pack should be considered a mandatory download.

If you do take the plunge, then here are a few pieces of solid advice:

1. Stick with the Windows XP Professional edition; it is well worth the few extra dollars as opposed to the Home version.
2. Back up all of your personal files beforehand, just in case!
3. Before upgrading, be sure to take advantage of the many tools that are included with the installation CD as they can very much help minimize any unpleasant surprises.
4. When you're done with the upgrade, you'll likely be frustrated by the new "user-friendly" interface. If that's the case, then simply visit the Control Panel where you can access the "Taskbar & Start Menu" settings. You'll probably be relieved to find that you can change the default XP interface back to the "Classic Start Menu" and will enjoy the upgrade much more once you have done so.

Published: September 5, 2002

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