OS' clean install & security updates.

[Lixorer]

I'm installing WinXP and I'd like to know would it be advisable to install security updates just after drivers and DirectX or I could as well install them after all the software?

[Erik]

Generally I will install the OS, then AV and firewall, then drivers. Then connect and get everything updated, and software last. After everything has been installed do another round of updates to make sure everything is up to date.

[Lixorer]

Did you mean "OS+Service Packs, then AV..."?
and why do you install AV and firewall before drivers?

[Budfred]

Because as soon as you get online, you are likely to be attacked and have malware installed in your computer if you don't have an AV and firewall in place... If the computer will run and go online without the drivers, they can wait... Security can't wait unless you want your computer used as a zombie SPAM machine or worse...

The OS + Service Packs is usually just your Windows disk with SP2.... If you don't already have a disk with SP2, it may be a good idea to download a copy so you have it ready to install before going online...

[Lixorer]

I should had said it before, I'm installing all updates offline.
I've got SP2 already, thank you.

[Budfred]

If you are doing the setup completely offline, the order doesn't make so much difference... If you need to go online for a driver update, put security in place first...