" Dear Dennis,

My PC with Windows XP is getting slower and slower. I need to do some spring cleaning and I think the best way is to reinstall the Operating System. My question is: how can I reinstall Windows XP with all the latest updates at the same time? You answered a similar question like this before, but didn't give any details or refer the reader to a location to get the information. I think this procedure is called 'Slipstreaming'. Thanks. "

My response:

Just to recap: slipstreaming means to integrate the latest Service Pack into the Windows installation CD. Service Packs are major updates to a product (in this case, Windows XP), and include bug fixes, updates, drivers, and additional components.

The advantage to slipstreaming is that any (re)installation of Windows XP will not require you to apply the Service Pack later. This is a big time saver, as a Service Pack installation on its own usually takes quite a bit of time. Also: slipstreaming ensures that you will get the correct installation files if you need to repair or update components of Windows at a later time.

There are a few sites on the 'net that explain how to Slipstream Windows XP (listed below). Note that you will need your original Windows XP CD, and either Nero Burning ROM, or Easy CD Creator to create a bootable slipstream CD.

http://www.helpwithwindows.com

http://www.winsupersite.com

Installing Windows XP Service Pack 2 without Slipstreaming

As I have discussed previously, XP Service Pack 2 is a major update to Windows XP. It's not just a collection of security patches; it is also a significant upgrade to the operating system itself and contains elements which cannot be obtained as separate downloads via the Windows Update web site.

Back in November 2004, I compiled an in-depth tutorial which explains step-by-step how to install XP Service Pack 2 onto an existing Windows XP Machine (with or without slipstreaming). More info here (in a previous post):

XP Service Pack 2 eBook