Before you load Service Pack 2 on your Windows XP network, learn the key elements that will be affected and know how to prevent a disaster. If it’s too late and you’re now struggling with XP, this guide will walk you through an uninstall. [ Available in PDF Format for $14.95 / Download ]

Table of Contents

Fundamentals
Windows XP SP2 is big step forward in security—but it can break things
Windows XP SP2 network installation package released
In the field
Wait-and-see on Windows XP SP2
Preliminary testing has revealed some problems with Service Pack 2
Initial reaction to SP2 is generally favorable, but not everyone agrees
Changes
How SP2 affects wireless networking
Windows XP Service Pack 2: How it affects Internet Explorer
Service Pack 2 brings changes to Tablet PC Edition
Changes and enhancements to Windows XP Support Tools under SP2
Repairing errors
Windows XP SP2: What to do when the Windows break
BIOS update may be necessary if Windows XP won’t boot after SP2 installation
Deployment
Integrate Windows XP and Service Pack 2 to simplify installations
Streamline group policy distributions of SP2 from Windows Server 2003 using
the Group Policy Management Console
Deploy Windows XP Service Pack 2 using Systems Management Server
Distributing the service pack from a Windows 2000 server using Group Policy
Distributing the service pack from a Windows NT 4.0 server using logon scripts
Removal
Six strategies for removing Windows XP Service Pack 2 from your workstation