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Microsoft ends technical support for Windows XP SP1
Microsoft ends technical support for Windows XP SP1
Robert Vamosi Former Editor
As CNET's former resident security expert, Robert Vamosi has been interviewed on the BBC, CNN, MSNBC, and other outlets to share his knowledge about the latest online threats and to offer advice on personal and corporate security.
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As of today, Microsoft has ended technical support for Windows XP SP1. While Microsoft provides mainstream support for its operating systems for at least five years (Windows XP is not older than five years), it only provides support for its Service Packs for one year. Anyone still running the original Windows XP, Windows XP SP1, and Windows XP SP1a must upgrade to Windows XP SP2 in order to continue to receive security updates. Simply visit and download the service pack. When Windows XP SP2 was first available, people complained of long download times and inconsistent installation; those problems have since been fixed.