What are windows service packs

Knowledge Base Toggle local menu Menus About the team. Knowledge Base Search. Log in. Options Help Chat with a consultant. Include archived documents. This content has been archived , and is no longer maintained by Indiana University. Knowledge Base Search. Log in. Options Help Chat with a consultant. Include archived documents.

This content has been archived , and is no longer maintained by Indiana University. Information here may no longer be accurate, and links may no longer be available or reliable. Privacy policy. This article describes how to best install and remove service packs and hotfix updates on Windows-based computers that are running in Safe mode.

Typically, the installation of service packs and hotfix updates is done when Windows is running normally. You can start your Windows-based computer in Safe mode to help you diagnose problems. Microsoft has the following recommendations for the installation of service packs and hotfixes when your computer doesn't function in normal mode:. Microsoft recommends that you don't install Windows service packs or hotfix updates when Windows is running in Safe mode.

When you install a service pack or hotfix, the Setup program determines which devices are installed in the computer and which Windows components are enabled. Because certain drivers and components are unavailable when Windows runs in Safe mode, the service pack or update Setup program may incorrectly calculate the components that require updating.