Learn about changes you need to make after installing SP2.

Here are some new features of Service Pack 2:

• Automatic Update
• Internet Explorer Pop-Up Blocker
• Internet Explorer Download Monitor & Attachment Manager
• Windows Firewall
• Windows Security Center

To read more about Windows XP Service Pack 2, check out this Microsoft page:  general information about Win XP SP2.

Automatic Update

Know when new critical updates are available: When you are connected to the Internet, Windows checks for updates in the background. With SP2, when new updates are available, the Windows Update icon (refer to Figure 1) appears in the notification area (bottom right of your screen) and an alert pops up, letting you know that updates are ready to be installed.

Figure 1.

Internet Explorer Pop-Up Blocker

Reduce annoying pop-ups: Internet Explorer Pop-Up Blocker makes browsing the Internet more enjoyable by helping you reduce the unwanted ads and content that pop up when you’re browsing the Web.  Learn more about Internet Explorer Pop-Up Blocker.

Internet Explorer Download Monitor & Attachment Manager

Avoid potentially harmful files that you might otherwise accept from the Internet: If a Web site attempts to download a program to your computer without your authorization, Internet Explorer uses the Information Bar to let you know. The Information Bar shows up to notify you, and then it disappears when you move on to another Web page.  Learn more about the Internet Explorer Information Bar.

Windows Firewall

Get firewall protection from startup to shutdown: The powerful, built-in Windows Firewall is now turned on by default. This helps protect Windows XP against security breaches and malicious programs that can spread over the Internet.  Learn more about Windows Firewall.

Windows Security Center

Take control of your security settings: The new Windows Security Center allows you to easily view your security status and manage key security settings in one convenient place.  Learn more about Windows Security Center.