Microsoft Vista Service Pack 2

Windows Vista Service Pack 2 is now available for download, and you should start to notice it appearing in your ‘Automatic Updates’ very soon, if not already.

What is the purpose of SP2?

• Program compatibility fixes (including all previous Vista updates, and some specific compatibility fixes for certain programs)
• Hardware support (additional support for Bluetooth wireless technology and improved performance for Wi-Fi connections after the computer resumes from ’sleep mode’.  You can also record data to Blu-ray disc media.
• Operating system updates (including Windows Search 4.0, plus improvements for TV recording using Media Player)
• Hotfixes (a number of hotfixes to improve Vista, and repair bugs)

Important points to note, before you install SP2:

• It takes at least an hour, so if you are using a laptop, ensure you have it plugged into the mains
• Your PC will restart a couple of times, so ensure you have all other applications closed prior to installation
• You must already have Vista SP1 installed before you can install SP2
• There have been some problems with certain sound drivers and other hardware, but this is not a big issue, you simply need to update these drivers after you have completed the SP2 installation.
• If you had previously installed the ‘pre-release’ version of SP2, then this will have to be uninstalled before you install the full SP2 release.  The ‘pre-release’ version has a limited ’shelf life’ anyway.

For further information regarding Vista SP2, and installation problem information, visit Microsofts website HERE.