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General discussion

Updates do I really need them

Jan 2, 2011 7:46PM PST

Hi There would someone be good enough to answer this question.
I have in the past re-installed my Windows XP system and updated all the important updates, my question is about the optional updates.
I have always re-installed these as well, but do I gain anything from installing these or am I just bloating my computer system. I have read what the installing these is meant to do but I'm still unsure. I am just a "normal" computer user not a programmer or anything like that.
The updates in question are as follows.

1. Microsoft.NET Framework 4 Client Profile
for Windows XP x86 (KB982670)

2. Microsoft .NET Framework version 1.1

3. Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Service Pack 1
and .NET Framework 3.5 Family Update (KB951847)

and Update for Root Certificates (October 2010) (KB931125)

Many thanks for your anticipated response.
Tony B.

Discussion is locked

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I would say Yes.
Jan 2, 2011 8:17PM PST

This is not really a Home Installation Lounge question, but since you are here, Happy

Generally I would say yes, especially to the ones you noted above.

.Net framework is a little strange I admit. Some of them you won't need. But some applications now use .Net Framework and without them the apps won't work. But they will tell you if .Net Framework is required.

This is what Microsoft says about Root Certificates ;

"Introduction

The Microsoft Root Certificate Program supports the distribution of root certificates, enabling trust among Windows clients. To date, Microsoft has approved nearly one hundred commercial and government CAs for participation in the Program. This page describes the terms for participation and will help new CAs get started to apply to the Program."

More here, http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc751157.aspx

I was never quite sure why these were optional as they seem important to me. That's why I always updated them when offered.

But I understand your query. There are optional updates that you may not need although since each machine is different and each user's needs are different, it is impossible to tell you which to avoid. Windows Vista and Win 7 makes this a little easier because MS now identify 'Optional' updates better. It was never that easy to identify them with XP if I recall.

For example of Vista's optional updates, I have 47 "Language Updates" listed. Not sure why I would need 47 and I have selected not to receive them.

I hope that helps.

Mark

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Thanks
Jan 4, 2011 5:32AM PST

Thank you for your reply I'm sorry I put it in the wrong section, just out of interest and to stop future mistakes where should I of placed this.
Many Thanks Tony B.

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No problem
Jan 4, 2011 7:33PM PST

I only advised that because you might have missed out on useful advice by posting here.

CNET has a range of forums and some are listed in the column on the left, but to see them all, try the See all forums link.

Good luck.

Mark

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(NT) Reading the above, use the XP forum.
Jan 12, 2011 12:44PM PST