Windows Service Pack 2 Troubleshooting

Reader Question:
“Hi Wally, I am having problems with Windows Service Pack 2 and wondering how to fix it?” - Joseph T., USA

Before addressing any computer issue, I always recommend scanning and repairing any underlying problems affecting your PC health and performance:

Step 1 : Download PC Repair & Optimizer Tool (WinThruster for Win 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP and 2000 – Microsoft Gold Certified).
Step 2 : Click “Start Scan” to find Windows registry issues that could be causing PC problems.
Step 3 : Click “Repair All” to fix all issues.

Setting up weekly (or daily) automatic scans will help prevent system problems and keep your PC running fast and trouble-free.

Wally’s Answer:

Overview of Windows Service Pack 2

One way that Microsoft tries to keep their operating systems secure and up to date is through the release of Service Packs. Service Packs are collections of hotfixes, updates, security patches, and added features. Service Packs are released infrequently, and the second release of these updates is known as “Service Pack 2″ (often referred to as, “SP2″).

Windows XP was released in 2001, but Service Pack 2 was not released until 2004. SP2 for XP included several key security features. It updated the firewall and changed the default setting to “on.” It also introduced Data Execution Prevention to help keep hackers from taking over computers running Windows XP. SP2 also added Bluetooth support.

Windows Vista was released in 2006, but Service Pack 2 was not released until 2009. SP2 for Vista focused mainly on improving features like Windows Connect Now, Smart Cards, Windows Media Center, and streaming video and audio performance.

Service Pack 1 must be installed before Service Pack 2 can be installed. The Service Packs can be downloaded from the Microsoft web site.

What Problems are Associated with Windows Service Pack 2?

The biggest issue most people experience with Service Pack 2 for Windows XP is due to the firewall. By default, the firewall is turned on. The Windows firewall automatically blocks most ports so programs that need access to the Internet are often unable to connect after SP2 is installed. Users need to enter the firewall and open the ports their programs need access to.

Installation issues with Service Pack 2 are also fairly common for XP users. Many of these issues are caused by virus infections. Removing viruses, spyware, and Trojans before attempting to install SP2 will make the process much easier.

Most Vista Service Pack 2 problems occur during installation. Often the user receives a message like, “Installation was not successful.” This is most frequently the result of a program conflict. Before attempting to install the Service Pack, make sure all other programs and processes are closed. It is often a good idea to restart the computer using Selective Startup to ensure that only essential Windows processes are active.

Sometimes the download of SP2 has been corrupted or did not complete correctly. Downloading the Service Pack again can often resolve this issue.

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Is Your PC Healthy?

I always recommend to my readers to regularly use a trusted registry cleaner and optimizer such as WinThruster or CCleaner. Many problems that you encounter can be attributed to a corrupt and bloated registry.

Happy Computing!

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About the Author

Wally PhillipsWindows Wally is a helpful guy. It’s just in his nature. It’s why he started a blog in the first place. He heard over and over how hard it was to find simple, plain-English solutions to Windows troubleshooting problems on the Internet. Enter: Windows Wally. Ask away, and he will answer.