Windows XP SP3 Public Download

Microsoft has released The Windows XP Service Pack 3 standalone release candidate for download. The 336 Megabyte download file contains all previously released updates for the operating system says Microsoft.

This update also includes a small number of new functionalities such as:

• supports Bluetooth network equipment
• Windows XP Network Diagnostics components (IE Tools menu) 6.1
• includes Remote Desktop Connection client
• contains network access protection client
• includes Windows Imaging Component
• contain Microsoft Management Console 3.0
• includes Microsoft Core XML Services 6.0
• includes Windows Installer 3.1 v2
• contain Background Intelligent Transfer Services (BITS) 2.5
• include peer name resolution protocol (PNRP) 2.1
• includes Wi-Fi Protected Access 2

The final version of Windows XP SP3 is said to be targeted for release sometime in the first half of 2008. Be warned, since this is not the final release but a preview beta you cant go crying to Microsoft if something goes wrong with it. However you should expect to see some improvement with this Service Pack as it is said to have some enhancements.

You can download the self extracting file from here directly.