Service packs are exclusive features produced by Microsoft, which support the Windows operating system run by Microsoft. They basically determine the usability of OS interface. So far, 3 service packs have been released by Microsoft. The first service pack – SP1, was released in the year 2002, 2 years after the Windows XP was released. The major utility of USB ports came into configuration with the production of SP1. SP1 included unique features of .NET Frames and compatible updates of all the drive applications.

In the same line, after two years, SP2 was released with more advanced techniques and features.  SP2 offered special firewall protection and Wi-Fi connection features with Windows XP.  The additional features included Bluetooth installation, pop up blockers for IE6 and improved encryption as well as coding.  Windows XP home edition and Windows XP professional were hugely supported by SP2. SP2 provided more security to Windows operating systems.

SP3 is the latest service pack offered by Microsoft. It was released on 21 April, 2008. Right now it’s available only in US and Canada, officially, from a Microsoft download center. This version of service pack supports only 32-bit system and will be launched worldwide in few months. SP3 can be installed from IE6 or IE7 versions on any system.