Redmond-based software giant Microsoft has released Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 (Service Pack 1) to the public yesterday, the 22nd of February 2011. Today, as I’ve already found out, Windows 7 SP1 is being served by Windows Update. If you didn’t get the update prompt, you can manually trigger the update by going to the Action Center -> Windows Update -> Check for Updates.
Before you rush off to get Windows 7 SP1, there are a few precautionary methods you must consider. Take a look below to see what measure’s I’m talking about:
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Make sure you have enough disk space If you get SP1 via Windows Update, the estimated amount of free disk space required is 750MB for the 32-bit version and 1050MB for the 64-bit version. Running the built-in Disk Cleanup tool can help free up some hard drive space.
Uninstall other SP1 versions If you have any prerelease versions of Service Pack 1, you must install them first. After you do that you can install the final SP1 version.
Check for malware, temporarily disable your security software Before installing SP1 you should check your computer for malware, viruses, and other security threats. For this job you could use Microsoft Security Essentials , Microsoft’s free security software solution, or a number of other antivirus products offered by Microsoft partners . If you install SP1 on an infected machine, this could impact your SP1 installation and future Windows updates.
Some security software solutions may block the installation of SP1 or they may slow down the installation process. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software will solve this problem. Don’t forget to re-enable your antivirus software after SP1 has been installed.
Backup your important data You must entertain the idea that something could go wrong. To ensure your data is safe and protected, before installing Windows 7 SP1, you should back up your important stuff on an external storage device (like an external hard disk, a DVD, a CD, an USB flash drive, a network folder).
Plug in your laptop Make sure you don’t run out of juice while SP1 is being downloaded and/or installed. Connect your laptop computer to an electrical outlet just in case you run out of battery. Do not unplug and do not restart the computer while SP1 is being installed.
Redmond-based software giant Microsoft has released Windows 7 SP1 and Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1 (Service Pack 1) to the public yesterday, the 22nd of February 2011. Today, as I’ve already found out, 