Re: Is there a direct link to SP2 patch files?

pan.2006.02.25.01.16.33.245494@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx,
Peter B. Steiger <see.sig@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx> wrote:
It's about time for yet another security update, so I went
over to the microsoft.com downloads page. I click on the
"download SP2 now" link... and it tries to install and run
Windows Update. In fact, half the options I click on take
me to Windows Update.

I don't want the automatic update. I don't need it. I want
one entity in charge of deciding what files get placed on my
computer, particularly my operating system, and while there
may be some question of that entity's intelligence or
sanity, it's sure not gonna be some program from Redmond
that forces itself on me.

So. Is there anyplace I can download the actual patch files
as self-contained EXE/ZIP/whatever so I can launch them at
my own discretion, or am I locked into installing and
running the update behemoth just to get the security patches?

(ps, added later) I did find some path to an "administrator
center" that lets you download a big honkin' 256MB patch so
you can roll out your own update on multiple platforms.
Well, at least I can download it without Windows Update...
sigh.

--
Peter B. Steiger
Frustrated in Cheyenne, WY
If you must reply by email, you can reach me by placing
zeroes
where you see stars: wypbs_**3 at bornagain.com.

Individual updates can be downloaded in a number of different
ways.

Method 1.
How to download updates and drivers from the Windows Update
Catalog
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;323166

Start at this web site:
http://v4.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/catalog/en/default.asp

Click "Find updates for Windows operating systems".
Scroll through the list to the next to last entry, Windows XP
SP2.
Hit the Search button.
Click on "Critical Updates and Service Packs" and pick out the
updates you want to install. Add them to your Download Basket.
Do the same for "Recommended Updates".
Once you're done selecting updates, click on "Go to Download
Basket".
You can now download the updates to your system and install
them at your convenience.

Method 2.

Microsoft Security Bulletin Search
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/current.aspx

You can search by XP version and service pack number to find
the appropriate updates.

Good luck

Nepatsfan


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