Should I install Windows XP Service Pack 1, 1a, or 2

[WNIGAGLIONI]

Hey, everybody. I just recently formatted my computer and re-install my Windows Xp Home Edition. I had an umountable_boot_volume error before performing this action and my product support agent told him one of the reasons this error occurred is because I needed to install Windows Service Pack 1 or 2. Now, the only difference between Service Pack 1 and 1a is that 1a does not come with Microsoft Java Machine. As for Service Pack 2, I heard alot of bad reviews about it. I am asking anybody if they could tell me which one of these service packs should I install in my computer? Could anybody tell me the strengths and weaknesses between these service packs? If you could provide me any web links for further review of these service packs, I would be greatly appreciate it. Thank you.

[tones_ie]

as far as i know u cant get sp2 untill uve fully patched with sp1 ....id suggest just go to m/soft and do a scan for needed files....download the critical files it suggests....

as for sp2, ive never had any problems with it...

[SKULLZ1987]

When SP2 first came out it had bugs, holes, errors, you name it. Updates where made to make it more stabble and to fix the bugs, holes & errors. MS make updates based on an average user using windows that is up to date with all the latest update (including SP2).
To be fully protected you need an up to date system with up to date anti-virus and firewall.
Without SP2 your system could have more holes than a swiss cheese factory.

I Recommend Installing SP2. I Your Worried About Your System Sleeping With The Fishes, Do A Backup of Your System Using The Backup Utillity.

(Additional, In most cases an unbootable_boot_volume can be fixed by a scandisk check)