Computer Services
Attention All Windows XP Users!
(Note: If your computer uses Windows 2000 or earlier or you are a Macintosh user, please disregard the following.)
During the summer of 2004, Microsoft released a major update for their Windows XP operating system. This update, called Service Pack 2 (SP2), includes substantial enhancements for Windows XP, especially in the area of security.
Computer Services has been testing SP2 extensively over the last few months and is ready to start installing it on campus. However, rather than visiting every Windows XP computer on campus one-by-one, we will be installing SP2 over the network using our Windows Update Server (WUS). The WUS will install SP2 on your computer automatically.
What actions do I need to take?
There will be very little that you will need to do to facilitate the
installation of SP2 on your PC:
- You may see a message on your screen prompting you to reboot your computer. If so, reboot your PC at your earliest convenience (but definitely before you leave that day). ...That’s it!
What are the benefits of having Windows XP SP2?
- Enhanced Security. Windows XP SP2 is the most robust security
enhancement ever released for Windows:
- New features will guard against harmful email attachments and downloads.
- An improved Internet Firewall is enabled by default.
- Better privacy protection is provided during web surfing.
- Pop-Up Blocker. Windows XP SP2 installs a very effective pop-up blocker for Internet Explorer.
- Improved Wireless. Wireless networking support is improved by SP2.
- Internet Explorer Add-On Manager. Allows you to easily view and manage your Internet Explorer add-ons.
Are there any potential Issues with SP2?
As mentioned above, Windows XP SP2 contains the most robust security features
ever released for Windows. One side effect of this enhanced security is the
possibility that a few applications may not work the same (or at all) after SP2
is installed. Computer Services has undertaken extensive testing of all
campus-standard applications, and has found no issues. However, there is still
a slight possibility that some non-standard software used on campus may have
problems with SP2. If you encounter any odd behavior from your computer after
SP2 is installed, please be sure to contact the Computer Services Help Desk at
(205) 665-6520 between 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Monday - Friday or send an email to
helpdesk@montevallo.edu.
How do I know if Windows XP SP2 is installed on my PC?
- Right-click your Start button in the lower-left part of your screen.
- Choose Open.
- In the Start Menu window that appears, click the Help menu.
- Choose About Windows.
- A small window will appear, displaying your version of Windows and Service Pack level.
- If you find that you are running Windows XP, but not Service Pack 2, and the date is later than Wednesday, February 15, 2005, please contact the Help Desk.
Updated March 2005