windows update

A Service Pack (more commonly known as "SP") is a software program that corrects known bugs, problems, or adds new features (and/or both). Companies that produce large applications such as Microsoft and their Windows NT-based operating systems ... typically release a service pack when the number of individual patches to the application becomes too large. Service Packs are easier to install than groups of patches, especially with multiple computers that need to be updated over a network. Windows NT 4.0 currently has 6 Service Packs. Windows 2000 currently has 4 Service Packs. Windows XP ... (view more)

Recall -- Last week , Jim W. asked if there was a way he could install the latest updates to Windows at the same time as installing Windows to a freshly formatted PC: " I find myself frequently formatting / reinstalling Windows for many of my ... clients (because their copy of Windows is too messed up to attempt any type of quick-fix). When I do a reinstall, there is often a ton of Windows updates I need to download, regardless of which Windows Operating System I'm working with. Is there any way I can consolidate steps and somehow integrate Windows Updates into a fresh install of Windows? ... (view more)

Infopackets Reader 'Tom' asks: " Somewhere, someone told me about a website that allowed users to download a windows 98 Second Edition full CD that included all the critical updates. I also heard that you needed to use the original CD key to use ... this install. Do you happen to know if this is true, and if so, what is the web site? " My response: As far as I understand, it would be illegal to distribute any Microsoft product that is normally for sale (I.E.: the Windows Operating System itself -- Service Packs , on the other hand, are free). On that note, I happened to stumble across ... (view more)

Speaking of securing your PC and keeping it protected from Hackers -- Infopackets Reader Riad S. writes: " Dear Dennis, I run Windows XP. I recently ran the Windows Update scan (by clicking Start -> Windows Update) and now it gets stuck at 0% ... activity, then finally aborts with an error message that reads: ' Windows Update Error. Windows Update has encountered an error and cannot display the requested page. Error no.(0x800C0005) '. I tried all suggestions on the error page, but with no result. Can you please help?" My response: According to updateXP.com , the hexadecimal error ... (view more)

Infopackets Reader Bob B. writes: " Dear Dennis, Thank you for the newsletter! I read it with interest because you discuss so many useful things that PC users struggle with sometimes. I have a very peculiar problem with my PC: I recently visited the ... Microsoft Windows Update Website and installed numerous hot fixes and critical updates; when I launch a new task, all of my new active windows launch behind (instead of in front) of the window that is already open. For example, if I launch Outlook Express and check for new email by clicking on the Send / Receive button, the Send and Receive ... (view more)