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The Microsoft support page just says to enable automatic updates, but I've got broadband and my friend who's machine I'm repairing has a very slow connection.

Can I download it here and take over an .exe or something on a thumb drive?

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2 Answers

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Here is a direct download to Windows XP SP3 offline install.

For your information, it is 316.4MB

Overview

Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) includes all previously released updates for the operating system. This update also includes a small number of new functionalities, which do not significantly change customers’ experience with the operating system. If you're updating just one computer, please visit Windows Update at http://update.microsoft.com.

Note:

Customers running Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS) are advised to install a hotfix for a Microsoft Dynamics RMS issue prior to installing Windows XP SP3.

DO NOT CLICK DOWNLOAD IF YOU ARE

UPDATING JUST ONE COMPUTER: A smaller, more appropriate download is now available on Windows Update. The best way to ensure you get Windows XP Service Pack 3 is by turning on the Automatic Updates feature in Windows XP. You can use our step-by-step instructions or, if you prefer, let us do it for you.

The Microsoft Download Center site is your only authorized web source for downloading a licensed copy of Windows XP Service Pack 3. To report a website offering unlicensed copies of Windows XP SP3 for download, please send e-mail to: piracy@microsoft.com or visit http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/ReportingUs.mspx.

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But if I recall correctly, it requires service pack 2 to be installed prior – David Pearce Oct 10 '09 at 1:58
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nope, this one includes all prior service packs and can be installed on any previous version of XP. from the link: "Supported Operating Systems: Windows XP Home Edition ; Windows XP Professional Edition ; Windows XP Service Pack 1; Windows XP Service Pack 2" – quack quixote Oct 10 '09 at 7:02
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which is why it's 300+MB. – quack quixote Oct 10 '09 at 7:03
"To install SP3, either Windows XP Service Pack 1a (SP1a) or Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) must already be installed." microsoft.com/windows/products/windowsxp/sp3/default.mspx – David Pearce Oct 11 '09 at 5:47
up vote 0 down vote

This answer to my question gives a link to a DIY solution where you can download patches offline (even from a linux machine if you wish).

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