Still downloading sp2 on 2 machines

[Mark Miller]

Well it's been almost a day with a broadband connection and I still have no idea if sp2 is downloading from win update site.
Got the notice yesterday on both machines, stared download, made sure all the proper services were on auto and......
I would just like to know if any thing is coming in
Mark:confused:

[ErnieK]

Mark
Have you tried to download the full network version and then doing a manual install? You might be quicker in the long run.

I do not know about the US but quite a few Comp Mags are giving the SP2 update away free in a couple of weeks time.

[Mark Miller]

Hi Ernie,
I was in no rush for this in the first place. Both my machines are pretty well protected [thanks to you guys].
I was just a little frustrated that I got the notice from Win updates and then after clicking to update it seems as if nothing has happened.
I know that Ms is rolling this out slowly but why bother with the notification if they are not doing the download?
Looking around some of the other forums there are plenty of other people with the same question.
Nothing is ever straight forward with Ms:D
For now I will just leave both computers on and wait to see what happens.
Mark

[Flick]

Hi Mark! I'm on dial-up (28.8) and the auto download icon has been in my task bar all day. Everytime I run the cursor over the icon it says, "Downloading Updates: 0%". So, don't feel too bad!

[Mark Miller]

Hey Flick
I don't even have the little icons anymore!!!!
Glad for once it's not just me:D :D :D

[jabarnutcase]

Hehe...I know the suspense is killing you Mark, but like I said last night, be patient and it will eventually notify you it's ready to install.
I used Automatic Updates for one of my Machines that had the Beta RC2 installed on it and the same thing happened.
No signs of activity whatsoever after the first notification that it was ready to download....I thought something might be wrong too but tried to forget about it after a while. (I even turned the machine off at night).

Then, as if by magic, it was ready to be installed. (Which also took a while).
Can't remember, but it may have even been two or three days from the time I was first notified to where it was actually downloaded.
(Of course, turning the Computer off at night slowed down the process). And people with RC2 got it before those that never had it before, so I assume a ton more people are downloading it now.
Just leave yours running...I can pretty much guarantee you that even though there is no sign of activity, it won't be long now. ;)

All part of the master plan to drive you crazy! :D

[Mark Miller]

Thanks Jab,
As I have said if the little icon hadn't shown up I would not have cared [My computer is running great.]
But no... they have to start with me
Have a great birthday and I'll talk with ya manya na

[Flick]

Well, I am now into day two of the great SP2 download. According to articles I've read, Microsoft says that on dial-up it could take "several days" to download SP2. So, I'm counting the days and I'll let you know when it finishes!

[Mark Miller]

I'm on day 2 and a half on 2 machines with broadband and to tell you the truth I don't think anything has happened.
As of now according to win update site this is the only way to get it besides a full network download.
In realty it's not that much of an issue for me anymore.
It will happen when it happens:D

[Fruss Tray Ted]

(Microsoft) "We're sorry but all the lines (1) are busy. Your call is important to us. Please stay on the line and your call will be taken in the order they were received"

(Caller) "So where's the elevator music? I want something to entertain me while waiting. Twiddling my thumbs has caused muscle cramps in my hands! C'Mon already!"

(Microsoft) "We're sorry but the lines (1) are s-t-i-l-l busy. The party with whom it is connected has tons of data that we are retrieving their err, I mean needs the update real bad. Please hold the line and we will be with you as soon as we can to start D/Ling your err, I mean updating you computer."

(Caller) "I want to talk to a real person!" :mad:

(MS) "There are no 'real persons' here (nope, not at MS) this is done automatically when we press 'copy' err, I mean 'send'..." :o
____________________

Are you still waiting? :rolleyes:

[Steve]

Hmmm, I think it was Malcore who posted a link for a full download. (all 266MB) It took about 40min. to download and about 20 min. to install. What are you guys doing messing with the update site...:confused:

[Mark Miller]

Hey Steve,
It goes like this....
I was in no rush to begin with and have been reading and told that the network download was really not for 1 or 2 machines, fine.
What is annoying, is that since they did send that stupid notification and have apparently not done anything with it. As far as starting a download or letting one know what's happening.
Of course none of this is very serious, just annoying because all I am doing is following how Ms wanted this to be done and now 2 and half days later nada
Just a rant, but you asked:D :D Weatherbug updates better than Ms with sp2:D

[Flick]

Originally posted by Steve
What are you guys doing messing with the update site...:confused:

I am just trying to show my trust and loyalty to Microsoft. Maybe once I'm finished with the upgrade, I will win the prize and Bill Gates will send me and my family on an all expenses paid trip to Walt Disney World.:D

[Mark Miller]

Hey Flick,
I have been reading in a few different locations [to tired to find link] that sp2 might have been held back due to a few small flaws?
Don't know if true but might make sense with lack of download which I am starting to think won't be coming for awhile
As I said I am not 100% on this.
Mark:confused:

[malcore]

SP2 was held back from auto updates only for the professional version, to allow corporations to better prepare for the change or make adjustments to delay the download.

The flaws reported by a German security outfit seem to be highly theoretical, and Microsoft feels it is a bit of a non-issue. SP2 is not a panacea. Flaws will be found, but it is definitely a step in the right direction.

[jabarnutcase]

Yes- malcore is correct. They held it back for the Pro version only until August 25th I believe.
While I'm a little surprised it hasn't downloaded yet, I still firmly believe that if you stop watching the pot it will eventually boil. :p
Originally posted by Steve
What are you guys doing messing with the update site...While I updated one Computer via Windows Update, I also downloaded the full network version. However, like you Steve, I have a Cable Modem.
With Flick's dial-up connection though, I think that might be a bit painful. :rolleyes:

My only concern at this point is that after all the anticipation, they'll be disappointed. It's really not earth shattering, but I think a good download none the less.....hang in there. ;)

[Flick]

Originally posted by jabarnutcase
While I'm a little surprised it hasn't downloaded yet, I still firmly believe that if you stop watching the pot it will eventually boil. :p
.....hang in there. ;) [/B]

Good analogy!:D I shall wait with the patience of Job!;) Thank you.

[Mark Miller]

Just a follow up
Day 4 no joy:eek:

[PrntRhd]

I heard some of the SP2 updates were going to be delayed 9 days. Just mine, right?
;)

[Mark Miller]

You know what I am almost just as glad, maybe their fixing some kind of glitch.
Mark

[jabarnutcase]

I heard some of the SP2 updates were going to be delayed 9 days. Just mine, right? Wow...if that's true this is the first I've heard of it.
I know the last I heard, it was just for XP Pro through Windows Update that was delayed until Aug 25th.

I'm actually very surprised you don't have it yet Mark. Again, maybe I got it faster because I had RC2 installed, and it was released to Beta users first...and now it's being distributed to a lot more users at once. (Only a theory)

Maybe Steve is right at this point....If you're really going nuts Mark, you could always go for the Big Banana. (The 266MB Network Download).
I downloaded it for my other Machines and for Slipstreaming a CD etc. like some of the other guys. (It actually went quite well).
Sure seems like something is holding things up at this point. Don't know what else to say.
Still a 266MB Download for a Dial-up isn't a whole lot of fun Flick. :(

I'm afraid if I keep saying be patient and it will be there soon, you might not believe me anymore. :p

If you do decide to go for the gusto, I would suggest saving it to a special folder rather than running from it's "current location". (And then installing).

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=049C9DBE-3B8E-4F30-8245-9E368D3CDB5A&displaylang=en

[Mark Miller]

Thanks Jab,
Not such a deal anymore.
The more I read the more I can wait
Mark:)

[Steve]

Still a 266MB Download for a Dial-up isn't a whole lot of fun Flick.
Hehe...I bet it would be faster, though. ;)

Actually, SP2 doesn't seem to be much to get excited about. I downloaded it and put it on a test computer. Frankly, I already had better security. If you use IE I'm sure the pop-up blocker will be handy. There's some interesting features but nothing I would put in the "must have" category. But then again, I haven't fully checked it out.

I've had a several customers asking if they should download it. A few have requested that I install it for them. But I'm suggesting that they hold off. There's bound to be some "issues" that are going to need to be addressed. This is M$ after all.

I'm not putting it on my main computer until M$ comes up with some compelling reason.

[Mark Miller]

Hey Steve,
I am beginning to feel the same way.
My security is pretty good and I won't be using the pop-up blocker,google and firefox, or the firewall, Mcafee personal, so I can wait.
I just was unhappy about the tease.
Mark

[PrntRhd]

Maybe the free CD for SP2 will arrive by the time we get it downloaded. That disk is best for dialup users like Flick BTW.

[Mark Miller]

Personally I don't think there is going to be a download for awhile, I think they stopped them for some kind of patch
Mark:confused:

[Flick]

Originally posted by Mark Miller
Personally I don't think there is going to be a download for awhile, I think they stopped them for some kind of patch
Mark:confused:

You may indeed be correct. But why would Microsoft leave the auto update icon running in the taskbar? It's been four days now (for me) and it hasn't downloaded a thing as far as I can tell.

[Mark Miller]

I don't even have the icon amymore and havn't since day 1. Unless it's hidden somewhere [I use auto hide] Arghhhhh!!!!

[Reid]

I downloaded the 272M network install of SP2 and had no problems updating three different systems. I like the Wireless Networking Wizard.

[Mark Miller]

Hi Reid,
A real noob question.
If I go with the network install, what happens to all the extra stuff I don't need?
The reason I ask is that I am very up to date with Windows.
Also I have a wireless network that my router not windows controls, do you think there will a conflict or will sp2 recognize what I have?
Mark

[Reid]

I am no expert on the SP2 update. I just live dangerously and jumped in since I had a free weekend to correct any problems. Anyway, still no problems and I am about to update a 4th system.

I do not think it will harm your wireless setup, but I cannot know that with any certainty. I had just never been able to get a spare desktop system with an 802.11b to communicate with my notebook's 802.11g. The Wizard tranferred settings via my flash drive and it was up and running very quickly.

[Mark Miller]

Thanks for reply
Mark:)

[jabarnutcase]

At the risk of adding insult to injury, I just received the Service Pack 2 CD in the mail today.
Pretty amazing to me. You guys can't even get it to download, while at the same time Microsoft and the US Postal Service delivers it to me in record time. :eek:

"Requires 900MB of available hard-disk space during installation"

"Share this CD with a friend!"
"You can give this CD to a friend or family member using Windows XP"

The irony of all this of course is that I've had SP2 for quite a while now, and don't even really need the CD. (Still nice to have though).

I imagine a lot of these will be floating around very soon....maybe sooner than Windows Update delivers it. :rolleyes:

[malcore]

Originally posted by Steve
Frankly, I already had better security. If you use IE I'm sure the pop-up blocker will be handy. There's some interesting features but nothing I would put in the "must have" category.

I'm not putting it on my main computer until M$ comes up with some compelling reason.


I highly doubt you had better security before SP2 Steve. ;)

There are quite a few more changes than just IE and a popup blocker, a new firewall and a security center. Scripting permissions are much tighter, the local zone is locked down now, the RPC attack surface is reduced, DCOM is handled differently, memory protection: there is DEP (both software and hardware, so it works to a degree even if one doesn't have a CPU which supports it in hardware). The list goes on.

I really find it funny that people are always so standoffish and skeptical when it comes to upgrades from MS. And I am no lover of MS myself, but I have been using and testing SP2 ever since the first Beta was available, and I was impressed with the steps MS was taking right from the start. Read the whitepapers (http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/sp2chngs.mspx) on SP2, a lot more is going on than one would notice at first glance.

When I first came to these boards, I was checking out what people had to say about XP when it first came out and then SP1 when it first came out. Most didn't like either at the time. That story quickly changed however.

SP2 is not the be all and end all. It's not a panacea. It is however, a very wise upgrade and one everyone should make. The sooner, the better I say.

[Mark Miller]

Just another note,
Still waiting
HAHAHAHAhahah.........
Arghhhh
Mark:D

[Mark Miller]

I guess this article kind of explains it. I think this what PrntRd was referring to.
http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,117513,tk,dn082304X,00.asp
We shall see.
Mark

[jabarnutcase]

Yes Mark...that is pretty much what malcore and I were saying, so nothing has changed since our earlier posts. (I thought maybe it was delayed yet another nine days for ALL additions....apparently not so).
Systems running Windows XP Home Edition finally started downloading SP2 on Wednesday, August 18. (Isn't that about when you were first notified?) :eek:
and:After a nine-day postponement, Microsoft this week plans to start pushing out Windows XP Service Pack 2 to PCs running Windows XP Professional Edition. Just as I mentioned, I believe it's the 25th (this week) for XP Pro.

Still amazed it hasn't downloaded for you yet Mark. Won't be long! (I hope) :p
And there is always the Network addition you could go with since you have a fast Cable modem.

(However, you appear to be a very patient man ). ;)

[Mark Miller]

Jab,
What i have been trying to figure out is that if I go with the network download [I do have broadband] What happens to all the extra files.
What I mean is I probably only need the 80 or 90 mb from win update.
What happens to all the rest from the network download?
Thanks,
Mark

[jabarnutcase]

Mark...malcore of someone else can probably answer that question more specifically, but it is designed to update several computers over a network. Nothing really "happens to them".

There are extra files created during installation including un-install, back-up and temp files that the program "cleans up" after the installation procedure.

The CD I just got from Microsoft for example "requires 900MB of available disk space during installation", but that doesn't mean the Service Pack will use up that much space on your hard drive.

I say, create a "Service Pack 2 folder, (or what ever you want to call it), go up to my link and download the Service Pack.
Navigate to the Self Extracting Cab (That's what the download will be) double click and the suspense will be over!!! :p
(Plus you'll have the Download for future use)

I had no problems whatsoever with my machines. There is also an un-install option in Add/Remove, but I haven't had a need to try it.

And of course, I'm sure you have a good back-up should the need arise. :D (Not to worry....live a little!) :cool:

[Mark Miller]

Thanks Jab
As always your point of view on this stuff is very close to mine.
Wed I will have time so if nothing happens by then I will probably give it a shot
I'll let ya know
Mark :D

[jabarnutcase]

With your connection, you could have SP2 installed before an Hour has past. :p

[malcore]

A few things happen when using the network install.

The files are extracted to a temporary folder within the same partition that you are running the SP2.exe from. It will be removed upon completion.

Your computer will then be analyzed to determine exactly which files are required for the update. Files that are not needed will not be installed, and will be removed when the temporary folder is cleaned up.


You will be prompted to save the files being replaced for purposes of future uninstallation if so desired. You can't opt out of this, but you can specify where those files will be stored.

Upon completion of installing SP2 on a fully updated sp1 machine, the C: partition should be approximately 60-70MB larger, unless you saved your uninstall files on the C: partition also.

Mark, the network install in my mind is the wiser choice. Web installs can fail or cause more problems. A network install will not install more than you need.

[Steve]

There are quite a few more changes than just IE and a popup blocker, a new firewall and a security center.
That's good to know. As I said before, I really haven't had the time to look into it fully. On the surface, it's not so hot.

I guess I'm one of the people who look at everything that M$ puts out with a skeptical eye. I really do support M$, but with their tendency to do their final beta testing on the general public, I like to wait for the eager guys to find the problems and M$ to get the first dozen or so patches out before I jump in. I waited a long time to start using SP1.

Security just isn't that important to me. Well, let me rephrase that. With the current security programs and methods available, I haven't had any problems in quite a while. The only time I've picked up a virus or adware/spyware/hijacker, in the past year, is when I've tried to. That may be atypical, but from what I see from the regulars here, most security issues for the general home user are pretty much known and solutions available.

Malcore, with your advanced technical knowledge, you have the advantage of understanding the ins and outs of this kind of thing. I'm sure as time goes on, I'll understand just what this SP has to offer. That's why I put it on a test computer. No matter what, it's just a matter of time before we HAVE TO install it. If we want to keep updating the OS, that is. At least that is what happened with SP1.

:)

[malcore]

I really do support M$, but with their tendency to do their final beta testing on the general public

Here's my take on this. I agree this was true in the past with MS. I also had my reservations, but that's why I jumped on the Beta bandwagon as soon as possible. The first beta was released in December of last year. This service pack has been tested more than any other MS upgrade to date.


Because beta versions have been available for testing for so long, I blame the problem of some software not working properly with SP2 on the software developers themselves. Geez, even the guys who develop Divx have to rewrite their latest offerings because of problems with DEP. So what do they do? They recommend users DISABLE DEP until they release a fix!

Sure problems may still be found with SP2, but problems with operating systems are always being discovered, patched and upgraded. Any and all computers I have built for people have either been upgraded to SP2 or had SP2 installed from the get go.

[Mark Miller]

Thanks guys,
Much clearer understanding of network download.
Jab,
good idea to make disk and then put that on my wife's computer or maybe the other way around:D

[ErnieK]

The download of SP2 for XP Professional (which MS put on hold for a few days to allow businesses to prepare) will start on Wednesday.

[Mark Miller]

Hey Ernie,
Don't count on it.
We on home have no joy yet:D
Except it"s downloading as we speak.
I can't believe it.
I'll let ya know how it goes tomorrow

[ErnieK]

Mark
That right be selfish! Hog all MS bandwidth for your download. ;)

Just poped into update to see how long it took to respond. 3 minutes to open up the page on Broadband (normally only a couple of seconds), so they must be getting hit fairly heavely at the moment.

[PrntRhd]

Mark, Nothing here, but the automatic update only will check at 3 AM!

[Mark Miller]

Took no time really to download once it started [maybe 20 min, not sure] will install tomorrow
PrntRd I think you can change the time for downloads or maybe not. On this machine started about 11PM.
Still nothing on wifes machine, which is just as well.
One disaster at a time [just kidding]
let ya know outcome tomorrow
Mark

[Flick]

My little auto update icon still reports 0% downloaded.

[PrntRhd]

Did the big download and installed. SP2!
I just did major defrag, this one is NTFS and it took quite a while but it was worth the time to defrag it.
Looking for broken programs as we speak.

[jabarnutcase]

Cool! :cool: Looking for broken programs as we speak My guess is that you won't find any. It works great on all of my machines. (And so do all of my programs...some of them pretty "dated").
You also got a lot more than first meets the eye.
There are little tweaks and menu items all over the place that take some time to discover.
Among many things, the way ActiveX controls are handled. (Both installed ActiveX and the prevention of installing them).

MANY warning messages are on by default, but they too can be changed the way they notify you. (For downloads, ActiveX, Pop-ups etc.)

Forgive my excitement...I'm just happy one of you guys finally got it! :p
Like malcore, I think it's a very worthwhile download and (as Steve mentioned), even if people don't like it for whatever reason, (Although I can't imagine why), it's something everyone will most likely need for future updates so don't hesitate. ;)
Once I installed it on one of my Computers, I wasn't happy until they all had it! :)

[ErnieK]

I aggree with you JABAR.

I have had no problems since I installed it (clean OS from slipstreamed disk). Only thing that did not work for me was WebCam. Just downloaded updated software/drivers and was OK after that.

Well worth spending time just to look around. First thing to check is the Security Zone to ensure that your firewall and AV has been recognised and are working OK.

Check to make sure that WINDOWS firewall is turned of if you have another brand installed (ZA etc)(though this should happen be by default) I have read that the windows firewall WILL run alongside the likes of ZA without problems or conflicts but I would not like to chance it.

Two or three differences in the location of certain things but easy to find. (Sys Properties/device manager for example - now at the top instead of in the middle) Also a few additons to Services.msc so extra services show as running. I am waiting for BlackViper to post his updated recommendations before messing about to much here.

Over all nothing to be worried about.

[jabarnutcase]

I am waiting for BlackViper to post his updated recommendations before messing about to much here. Funny you should mention that Ernie...I recently checked his site too and I see that he has been spending a lot of time to incorporate SP2 into his configuration pages in the near future.

Looking forward to see what he has to say. (Haven't checked in a while though). :)

Concerning programs that may not work. I agree with malcore in that as long as this Service pack has been available for testing, if a program doesn't work it's not always Microsoft's fault!
Some of these people need to get with the program! :p

[PrntRhd]

Everything works so far.
:D :D :D

I did do the full download and let it install what it needed, the automatic download was having me keep the PC on for 5 days waiting for something to happen, finally lost patience and got a bigger hammer.

[Mark Miller]

I'm doing the install right after I post this.
Still waiting on other machine.
Let ya know

[Mark Miller]

Well except for the fact that this site is running very slow, everything seems to working fine, including my wireless network
After all that no big deal
I am sure it's just some glitch here as every other site is running fine.
Since I am using firefox more and more I have not really tested the pop-up blocker in ie.
I turned off the one in google just to see how it performs.
Recognized my firewall and anti-virus no problem
Did the defrag and machine is running fine.
Set all my zones to the way they were previously and I am good to go.
Mark :)

[jabarnutcase]

Hallelujah!!! ;)

[Mark Miller]

By the way I learned something new as far as booting right after the sp2 update.
It seem your "prefetch" file has to be rebuilt so it might take a few boots to get everything back to normal
I have really found no slow down except for the net today.
Mark
Now on to machine 2:D

[PrntRhd]

Of course the disk from MS arrived the next day (today).

:rolleyes: :rolleyes:

[jabarnutcase]

Of course! :D
Mine came a couple of days ago too. (Or yesterday?) :confused:
Anyway, it seems like it came a lot faster than when we ordered SP1.


It figures...no harm done though. Kind of nice to have the CD kicking around now in addition to the Network Download. ;)

Like I mentioned back when I ordered it. I just can't resist something free from Microsoft including the shipping! :p

[Mark Miller]

Well I decided to wait on the other computer till the download comes or I get a disk.
My wife only uses aol and she really does not care in the least:D
Something about me being obsessive:D
Anyway all seems well on this machine. I did a little boot vis and everything is cool. the wireless set up, which I was the most nervous about never skipped a beat.
By the way my defrag took only about 30 min.
The only little thing is the web seems a little slow but my speed tests show everything is where it should be.
Mark

[Flick]

My download icon is still there, showing 0%. I feel like Eeyore. I'm going back to my gloomy place.

[jabarnutcase]

Bummer Flick.
Did you happen to order the CD back when the link was first posted here?
(If so, it should be here any day) Boy....where have you heard that before? :p

If you didn't order it, maybe you have a friend that did? (I even heard rumors that it might be included in several popular Computer magazines soon).
I could almost send you a copy faster than your download is going. And we're talking the US Postal Service here! :D

Kind of a shame. By now, even with a dial-up connection you could have downloaded the entire Network Installation.
I'm not so sure you shouldn't anyway at this point.

Must be torture for you.....hang in there. ;)
I still think that if and when the download starts, it won't take terribly long.
Then again, I think a lot of things that don't always happen. :(

[ErnieK]

Some UK Magazines will be giving away in the next issues. At least PCAnswers (the only mag I get) is doing so. Next issue due through the door over the next 2-3 days

[Mark Miller]

I get those mags here thru Barnes and Noble [large chain of book stores in U.S.] and that's what I am goingto do for second machine.
mark

[Flick]

Thanks jabarnutcase! Unfortunately, I didn't order the disc back on August 6th, however, I did order it today. My download icon is still there and showing 0% downloaded. I betting that I get the disc in the mail before the download even starts! :D

I just don't understand why Bill Gates is ignoring me. Perhaps it was something I said? :confused: I may have to give him a call and make sure we're still tight.;)

[Flick]

BIG DOWNLOAD UPDATE! I went to the Windows update site and noticed that SP2 was listed for download. So, I started the download and it said that the download would take 7 hours and 43 minutes! However, I've been checking the download icon and noticed that the file is coming in at about 1% per minute. Therefore, I should have the total download of SP2 (via dialup at 28.8) in 1 hour and 40 minutes!

As I type this, my hard drive is spinning like a top! I will report back with my progress! My icon says 20% downloaded now!:D

Opps! Once it got to 33% downloaded, everything slowed down! It's creeping along at a snails pace now, but it's still downloading! So, it may indeed take that 7+ hours. We'll see!;)

[Flick]

I am now at 43% so let's judge the time!

[Mark Miller]

I am getting it right now for my wifes computer.
The download itself should take less than 20 min :D
Sorry flick, did not mean to rub it in :D
I hope this works as well as did on my desktop
Mark

[Flick]

My SP2 update stopped at 54% downloaded. The update said I needed 93.60 MB for my SP2 update. It stopped at 50.60 MB. I rebooted the computer and now the download has started again, but it didn't pick up at 54%. The download started again from scratch. It's currently at 37.60 MB, yet the auto download icon in the task bar is still showing 54% downloaded. This is weird!

[ErnieK]

Flick
SUPPOSEDLY if you stop the download and shut down the computer when you next go to windows update it is supposed to resume from where you stopped/paused the original download. At least that is what MS says. Please note I say supposedly. After all MS's word is similar to the security flaws others keep finding in Windows and leaves a lot to be desired.

[Flick]

Yes ErnieK, you are correct. I had occasion to stop the download several times and it always picked back up where it left off until it "froze up" on me at 54% downloaded. As I said in the previous post, when I then stopped the download and then started it again, it started from scratch! So, I wasted a little over 5 hours on my first download try! I don't know where that first 50.60 MB's went to!

At 28.8 I was able to finally download the entire SP2 (93.60 MB) in just over 9 hours (14 total if you include the wasted 5 hours). It averaged about 10 MB per hour. I finished it up this morning. I then turned off all other programs and did the installation. I rebooted the computer and the new install worked fine.

It recognized my Zone Alarm Pro firewall and my Avast Pro Antivirus. I haven't yet had the opportunity to test it with all my other programs. However, I have noticed that pages on the Internet load much faster! So far, I LIKE IT!:D

[Mark Miller]

Flick,
Glad to see ya finally made it :D

[ErnieK]

Well Flick you are going to have to change your signature now to PV (short for Percy Verance):D

[Flick]

ErnieK, you made me spit beer out of my nose! I actually looked up the name "Percy Verance" via Google to see who this person is (or was)! Only then did I discover your joke (perseverance) and the beer came flowing out! That was a good laugh! Thank you!:D

[ErnieK]

Who says I have a warped sense of humour? Just think you now no that the inside of your nose is clean. Ain't I good to you? :D

[Flick]

Originally posted by ErnieK
Who says I have a warped sense of humour? Just think you now no that the inside of your nose is clean. Ain't I good to you? :D

You are indeed good to me!:)

[ErnieK]

:D

[jabarnutcase]

:D
Sure glad you finally got it Flick . I knew that Pot would boil eventually! (I just didn't know it would take three stoves, 1000 Gallons of natural Gas, and several torches to boil it). :p

Anyway, funny thing about these Service packs. First, there are Weeks (even Months) of anticipation. All the hype about how great it will be....or how useless it will be.

Finally, it's released. People get very excited. Ask a lot of questions. Cross their fingers and download it.

Then come the inevitable Microsoft bashers that find nothing but fault with it after many of those very people couldn't wait to get it, and were complaining it was taking to long for the release.

Vicious cycle isn't it?
At any rate, I think it's a great download and certainly a very positive step in the right direction.....enjoy! ;)

[Mark Miller]

One more question and we will put this to rest.
Is any one using the security center and finding it useful?
Mark

[jabarnutcase]

I take it for what it is Mark....a rather "pretty" interface. :D

I think you and others have mentioned that it's no "cure all".
I really think It was designed for the users out there that pay no attention to security whatsoever...like: "It appears your Anti-Virus is out of date" "Please update immediately or you will be sent to bed without Dinner". :D

Not most users here in the Forums that are fanatics about security.
Certainly, I am always checking to be sure my Programs (and hardware) dealing with security are up to date and working regardless of what the "security center" says.
There are many other new features built into the service pack though that I think are great.

BTW...I was not referring to you at all as one of the "M$ bashes" that complains all the time. I know better. ;)

I meant more the general public at large. Maybe even to include some Generals....Generally speaking of course. :rolleyes:

[Mark Miller]

I found that Norton 2003 on my laptop is picked up and shows it's running but not if it's up to date. Checked the Norton site and the fix is only for 2004 anti-virus, typical.
Anyway I am like you and do my own checking but I was just curious if the was any value besides checking
Mark