Thanks a lot for that info, hotdoge3... my husband's computer runs the Internet off of mine, so I'll have to look into the links you provided. He'd have a frog if I messed something up. Ha! Sure wish downloading a simple upgrade didn't take reading a manual nowadays. Ah, I long for the simple life. But boy, don't take my game collection from me. That's my fountain of youth.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/953791/en-us

Device Manager and Network Connections may be blank after you install Windows XP Service Pack 3

http://msinfluentials.com/blogs/jesper/

Toolfor AMD P C be for fit SP3,

First problem, affecting AMD-based computers with OEM images, primarily HP Desktops
NEW: Use this tool to mitigate the problem

http://www.help2go.com/Tutorials/Windows/Should_I_Upgrade_to_Windows_XP_Service_Pack_3.html

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950718/

How to troubleshoot an unsuccessful installation of Windows XP Service Pack 3
--------------------------------------------------
File Name: WindowsXP-KB936929-SP3-x86-ENU.exe

Knowledge Base (KB) Articles: KB936929

Download Size: 316.4 MB
Estimated Download Time: 12 hr 52 min 56K

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.

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.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947309/

Programs that experience a loss of functionality after you install Windows XP SP3

Thanks for the responses, folks... I'll check out that link, RosnSC, thanks. And thanks for the reminder to set a restore point, hotdoge3.

2 PC's one I try 3 Time's no good the reg can not bakup Microsoft say check spyware scaner & A V still not work, next PC go to new fit sp1 then sp3 work's good, now do you need it if you not on a network may be not,may do in your P C make a system Restore fist so if not work you can go back may be make a few system Resore Points one a day for next 2 or 3 day then fit SP3 good luck.

Midori, go to the url listed below, and you will find some info there from different (GOTD) board members. :D

Win XP Service Pack 3 - Message Thread

http://www.giveawayoftheday.com/forums/topic/3196#post-27741

Sue

I know there's Google out there, but I can't seem to come to a succinct conclusion as to pros and cons. I've had XP SP3 in my download queue for ages and keep bypassing it. After hearing comment after comment about how it "messes things up," especially games, I juss dunno whatta doo. So instead of sifting sand some more, I'm checking on this fine beach. Thanks, ya'll... (hope this is allowed here BuBBY)