I'm about to install XP Pro in a dual boot setup with my current win98SE. I'm doing it for a clean install for doing video work solely. I dont want any web access or anything, purely video apps. So, can I download updates on 98 and save them to HD to run from XP? Where from? The Micro$oft site looks like it uses one of those download-and-install-as-you-go jobbies. appreciate tips! thanks

Yes. I seem to recall that I downloaded the network version of various OS SPs (incl XP) without having to install it on-line... Probably used any of '98/NT4/W2K to do the job... http://www.microsoft.com/WindowsXP/pro/downloads/servicepacks/sp1/default.asp is the M$-land source for XP. You should be able to download the network version as a complete 'file' and install later (be it to a single PC or many...) as need-be. It just takes a while to download depending on connection type? The Express version may be an on-line job? I tend to favour having the whole sp/file etc. available at all times; allows me to use it as and when I prefer, rather than having to go on-line each time. This has been my approach for all M$ OS/apps. updates/sps etc. if not obtained as a CD from M$-land. XP SPs can also be obtained on a CD (link at bottom of MS page). Not sure about 'hot-fixes...' though; sometimes they may be an on-line download/install (later to incorporated into a standard SP release); but then again a download and install later may be possible? Also a search in google.com for: XP updates will bring a few other possble sources; e.g. http://www.winxpfix.com/Windows-XP-update-&-addons.htm

thanks for that. I did notice the networking pack and was wondering if that was the one to go for. time to utilise the works broadband connection ! thanks

The other route for home downloads - and concerned about time-outs etc... (i.e. ISP disconnects after set period (typical on many dun services?) and thus you may not get a full download, use a download manager. They allow you to pick up a download where it left off following any disconnects/interruptions; thus you can get the whole thing. There are several around; the best by many accounts is Getright (getright.com). I've used it without problems for several 'large' downloads - SPs in particular... It can be programmed to auto-reconnect; auto-disconnect etc.; the options etc. are many/varied. Getright is offered as more or less freeware, but does ask you to pay something to continue its development etc. I think the suggested sum is $25 (or more if so inclined)? It's well worth cash!

OR goto your local newsagent and buy a magazine with the updates on the coverdisk ;)

ah... now that's cheating... but it's viable...