Windows Update

I have Win2000 Pro SP2 on my computer. I started the download of Win2000 SP4, and after about 20 minutes cancelled as I saw that it would take about 3 hours and I had to leave. Would cancelling it cause any problems? Also, do I really need to download this? I also have IE 5.5. Should I upgrade this? I ask because I read so many conflicting stories about problems, etc. If I install a firewall, do I still need to download patches for certain viruses/worms?

As you can see, I'm not very knowledgeable in these areas, and the more I read the more confused I get. Your site, though, has helped me greatly!

Jeane

 

Jeane--I would not think that interrupting a download would cause any problems. Interrupting an installation might. You could always look in the folder to which you were downloading to see if there are any bits and pieces. I doubt it.
I cannot help you about SP4 since I do not run Win 2000.
Concerning IE5.5, lots of people still run it and are quite happy. There are some better cookie blocking and security features in IE6, however. And I do not think MS is offering any security patches for IE5.5 anymore, but that could be incorrect.
A firewall blocks entry into the various ports in your PC, but it has no effect on viruses, etc. which enter your PC from e-mail or downloads. You should therefore also install an antivirus detection program. And many people would also suggest AdAware or SpybotS&D for spyware detection and SpywareBlaster for spyware blocking.
You do not need to update a firewall program, but the other programs mentioned above do need updating with new virus definitions or reference files.

 

And you do need any microsoft security patches that apply to things you have.

For instance, MS04-011 needs to be on any NT system (nt/2K/xp/2k3) but not 9x/me while ms04-013 is needed by folks who run OE although they have only tested and certified it from 5.5 SP2 and later.

 

I guess I was installing the Windows 2000 SP4 update when I cancelled. I have about 4 components in add/remove. Do I need to uninstall first before trying again? Also, can you uninstall more than 1 item at a time in add/remove? I ordered the update CD. Does the CD allow you to choose what you want to update?

Thanks again,

Jeane

 

The CD version will be the full install of SP4, and the prefered install, unlike the express install which looks at your individual hardware, and install what is needed at that time. Problem can be that with some major software and hardware changes you possibly need to reapply the express version from windows update. The full install holds everything on your system, so negates having to reapply the SP.
After applying SP4, if you still have these "leftover" entries in Add/Remove, I suggest using the Add/Remove or Installed Applications component available in EasyCleaner or RegSeeker via the links below this post.

Remember to visit Windows update after applying SP4 as there are a few dozen further updates, many of which are important security updates.