Win XP Pro -- is SP1 necessary for SP2?

[WhipperSnapper]

In the near future I am planning to build a system that will use Windows XP Pro. However, I think my OEM CD version of Windows XP Pro is an older version without any of the service packs.

Do I need to first install SP1 before installing SP2, or could I take Microsoft's SP2 CD and just install that? Is it safe to presume that Microsoft's SP2 CD (the one you can mail order for free) incorporates the SP1 upgrades?

 

[MrChad]

Yes, Windows service packs are cumulative.

Your best bet is to slipstream SP2 on your original install CD. Not only will that keep your new install safe from pre-SP2 worms when you connect to the internet, it will also save you time during your install.

 

[madthumbs]

SP2 is all you need unless you want it uninstallable to sp1.

 

[stash]

If you search, you will many many threads on this topic.