SP3

ZIB,

You can get Windows XP SP3 directly from Windows Update Site.

http://www.update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/

Something you do need to know about SP3 before installing it.

If you are using Internet Explorer 7 or Internet Explorer 8 (Beta), you will not be able to un-install either IE 7 or IE 8, without first un-installing SP3. You may just want to go to the update site and let it scan your PC for the necessary updates you need/

SP3 is just a compilation of all of the updates Microsoft has put out to date, for Windows XP. If you're current on the updates, then you already have most of SP3. You should check and see if a particular update applies to your system anyway before installing it. There are a lot of updates with in SP2 and now SP3, that the average user doesn't need. I know it's hard to understand the tech-geek-speak that Microsoft uses for the explainations of the individual updates, but if you do understand it, check each one before installing it.

If you don't comprehend Geek-speak real well, it's safe to install SP3, just be aware of the issue with IE 7 & IE 8.
No harm will be done, just extra work if you need to un-install the browser. You would first have to un-install the service pack, then un-install the browser, then re-install the Service Pack.

I believe you can also get SP3 from CNET.Com & MajorGeeks.Com.

Enjoy,
Mark