Some questions about upgrading to SP3

[fanh]

I know this sounds stupid, but I'm new to this and I need you guys to confirm something for me...

I'm currently using Windows XP SP1, and I didn't use a 'real' Windows CD.

1) Upgrading from SP1 to SP3 doesn't erase any of my files/programs on the computer, right?
2) I'm thinking of downloading the install file from here :http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=5b33b5a8-5e76-401f-be08-1e1555d4f3d4&DisplayLang=en
Will it be a problem that I didn't use a 'real' Windows CD to install Windows in the first place?

Thank you very much!

[Aegis]

I do believe that Microsoft is going to verify the Windows version on your computer before it starts the Service Pack 3 download.

[Dias de verano]

I don't believe it is illegal to get SP3 via Bit Torrent.

[Carbon Dudeoxide]

I think it would be safer to get SP3 from the Microsoft Website but I don't think it will work on your copy of Windows. Otherwise, you wouldn't have SP1.

And besides, we can't help you with illegal copies of Windows.
http://www.computerhope.com/forum/index.php/topic,58736.0.htm

[Dias de verano]

I think it would be safer to get SP3 from the Microsoft Website but I don't think it will work on your copy of Windows. Otherwise, you wouldn't have SP1.

I am not sure what you mean by that. SP3 includes SP1 and SP2, so if a person was using SP1 and they installed SP3 they would get SP2 as well.

SP3 will be available free on magazine cover disks soon anyway.

[quaxo]

Regardless, when you install any Windows updates, it usually checks to see if the Windows XP is genuine or not. Best advice, get a legitimate copy of XP while you still can.

[Dias de verano]

Regardless, when you install any Windows updates, it usually checks to see if the Windows XP is genuine or not. Best advice, get a legitimate copy of XP while you still can.

The check is done when you try to download via Microsoft Updates. Believe me. I know this.

[fanh]

But if I get a legal copy of Windows and reinstall it, all of my data will be deleted? 

And I don't know where to get a copy of it either, since I'm pretty sure most of the computer shops around here sell illegal copies  .

[quaxo]

But if I get a legal copy of Windows and reinstall it, all of my data will be deleted? 

No, not necessarily.

And I don't know where to get a copy of it either, since I'm pretty sure most of the computer shops around here sell illegal copies  .

Don't know how to help you with that, since we don't know where "around here" is