Make certain that your disk drive has the space required, at least 2GB for a
PC that is fully loaded with applications. This 2GB does not include the
recommended 15% free disk space requirement for Windows XP.
Install SP3 in 'Clean Boot' mode:
How to configure Windows XP to start in a "clean boot" state
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310353
See the section titled: Manual steps to perform a clean boot in Windows XP,
skipping step 4.
Why clean boot:
A "Clean Boot" insures that only a minimal set of Windows Services and
applications are running. This means your Anti Virus software, third party
Firewall and other background applications will not be running; thereby
reducing the chances that installing SP3 will fail. Just remember to undo
the "Clean Boot" changes after installing SP3.
Do not use the Windows Update web site, if at all possible download the
service pack installation file directly to your hard drive and install SP3
using this file.
Where to download the SP3 installation file:
(File is large but will only install components that your PC requires)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&DisplayLang=en
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