Windows XP Service Pack 1 Available

Three days before it will make an official debut, Service Pack 1 for Windows XP is now available for download. The 133MB update corrects a myriad of security issues and bugs that have cropped up since Microsoft released Windows XP in October of last year.

"Windows XP SP1 is a well-tested collection of updates that improve upon the operating system's security, reliability and compatibility, including fixes developed as part of the Trustworthy Computing Initiative," a Microsoft spokesperson told BetaNews.

"In addition to the traditional service pack updates, SP1 also implements changes required by the consent decree signed with the DOJ and nine settling states. And it includes additional enhancements, such as support for USB 2.0 and the .NET Framework," he said.

Microsoft announced the impending public release of SP1 to Windows XP beta testers Friday, giving them early access to the service pack as a token of appreciation for their hard work.

"Much of the success of this great product is based firmly on the work and feedback given by corporate testers and individuals like you," Microsoft wrote in an e-mail. "We want to thank you for your involvement with this program."

Windows XP Service Pack 1 may be downloaded via FileForum. A smaller Express Installation is expected to be available starting Monday via Windows Update.