Windows XP SP3 Released via Windows Update, Automatic Update and Microsoft Download Center

Windows XP Service Pack 3 public availability has been officially released today, Tuesday May 6, 2008 after one week delay from the original schedule. The third and last service pack for Windows XP has released to MSDN/TechNet in April, and is now deployed through Windows Update (where code bits has been uploaded for a while and can directly download), Microsoft Update, Automatic Updates, WSUS, Windows Catalog and Microsoft Download Center to those who wants to download and upgrade Windows XP system.

After a week of delay, Windows XP SP3 will start to be distributed via Windows Update and Automatic Updates again, and most users are recommended to upgrade their system through this method. So do Windows Vista SP1, which halted its roll out at the same time due to a bug in Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS), has its applicability changed today to start distribution via Windows Update and Automatic Update again.

The release has been confirmed by Chris Keroack, Release Manager of Windows XP Service Pack 3 from Windows Serviceability on TechNet forum.

For those who interested to download standalone update installer package for Windows XP SP3, the official setup executables can now be downloaded from Microsoft Download Center too. Three types of setup packages are available:

Windows XP Service Pack 3 – ISO-9660 CD Image File
Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for IT Professionals and Developers
Windows XP Service Pack 3, Checked Build

Direct download links for standalone update package (network installation package) and ISO images is posted here.

The Windows XP with SP3 integrated install CD ISO images have already been published on MSDN and TechNet Plus subscriber site, and has been leaked for download via HTTP or torrent.