Should you install the update?The high prevalence of attacks against Microsoft software over recent years means that for the average computer user, Service Pack 2 should be a welcome addition to tighten security.

New tools to manage pop-up boxes on websites and manage email attachment downloads should also eliminate some frustrations.

How can you install it?

At 266 megabytes, the new service pack will prove difficult to download for home users without a broadband connection.

People using dial-up modem should order a CD from Microsoft's site, http://www.microsoft.com/ ireland/security/protect/.

People with broadband can simply turn on the automatic updates feature in Windows XP and the package will download using spare internet capacity.

What about business users?

Microsoft is advising all corporate customers to evaluate the new service pack in a test to ensure it doesn't interfere with any of their existing applications.

There have been reports that certain applications may be affected by the service pack and Microsoft has provided a list of tools on its website that may be interfered with by the update.

Are there any extra benefits?

The update mainly offers enhanced security, but it offers tools to allow users to connect to Wi-Fi networks more easily and enhances bluetooth capability.