Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3)

You can download Windows XP Service Pack 3 here.

FACTS…according to WinSuperSite.com

“It is the final Windows XP service pack, a collection of previously-released fixes and product enhancements, as well as a few new features that are unique to this release.

You will need to install at least SP1 on XP before installing SP3.

SP3 does not apply to the x64 version of Windows XP. Instead, that operating system is updated via service packs aimed at Windows Server 2003

The new features, according to WinSuperSite.com:

Network Access Protection compatibility. Announced years ago, this feature allows Windows XP machines to interact with the NAP feature in Windows Server 2008. This functionality is built into the RTM version of Windows Vista as well.

Product Key-less install option. As with Windows Vista, new XP with SP3 installs can proceed without entering a product key during Setup.

Kernel Mode Cryptographics Module. A new kernel module that “encapsulates several different cryptographic algorithms,” according to Microsoft.

“Black hole” router detection algorithm. XP gains the ability to ignore network routers that incorrectly drop certain kinds of network packets. This, too, is a feature of Windows Vista.”

Of course, some people had problems after installing Windows XP SP3, which happens with every Service Pack or major update. SP3 will create a Restore Point, but the best thing you can do is backup your data prior to installing XP SP3, that way if anything happens, you’ll have peace of mind. Also, you can uninstall SP3.

Always do a complete scan of your computer using a reputable antivirus program, and anti-spyware program. Service Packs generally don’t play nice with viruses or spyware.

A known issue with SP3 can be found via eWeek.com (rebooting issue). Sound cards are known to not put out any sound after installing SP3 as well. Many other issues have arised, but the cases seem to be few and far between.

Back Up Internet Explorer Favourites

To back-up your Internet Explorer favourites list,

1. In Internet Explorer, left-click ‘File‘, then ‘Import and Export‘

2. Click ‘next‘, then ‘export favorites‘, then ‘next‘, then ‘next again‘

3. click the ‘browse‘ button to choose where to store the Favorites file (html)

4.  Click ‘finish‘.

5. Now make sure to move that file to your back-up location, or you’re likely to lose it.

How to Boost a Router Signal

1. Check for interference
   • Replace devices in your home that can interfere with network traffic on the 2.4GHz frequency range. These devices include many cordless phones, microwave ovens, and the like.
   • Check your signal strength with these devices on and off to determine if they are the cause of your signal problems.
   • Buy a wireless network analyzer to track down the source of interference.
2. Change your signal channel
   • Routers can broadcast on a series of channels, between one and eleven. Change to a channel that will allow your router a clear signal between other wireless networks.
   • Use a software utility to analyze which networks are using which channel.
   • Configure your system for an unused channel.
3. Reposition your Router.
   • Raise the router up as far as possible to increase the effective broadcast range.
   • Move the router away from any metal including metal shelving, filing cabinets and similar common objects.
   • Move the router closer to the receivers, if possible.
4. Raise your transmit power.
   • Check your router’s documentation and configuration utility for the ability to change the Xmit power of your router: the amount of power it uses to transmit the signal. generally you can boost this number by up to 50mW, however you do risk overheating or damaging your router.
5. Replace the Antenna.
   • Unscrew and replace the broadcast antenna on your router with a model that delivers more power. Not all routers allow for new antenna to be attached, but many do.
6. Install a Repeater.
   • Purchase a repeater. A repeater is a piece of hardware that acts like a wireless network expander. The repeater takes the signal from your router and boosts it to increase the range.
   • Wireless repeaters are increasingly common and affordable and will probably be available in your local computer store, or on the Internet.
7. Install a Wireless Amplifier
   • Purchase and attach a wireless amplifier, also known as a booster, directly to your router. A booster can be more affordable than a repeater as they only increase the strength of your existing signal, rather than the strength and range.

source: http://www.wikihow.com/Boost-a-Router-Signal