Judy- It is always wise to have a restore point in case you run into problems --you can then revert to the status prior to the failed update attempt. Vista does this automatically whenever anything new is installed. If you installed SP3 and are not having problems--then you should be ok. Joan <---thinking maybe we need to stick to more closely AOL-related issues on this list but glad you have resolved the issues surrounding SP3 for XP. In a message dated 9/23/2008 1:23:26 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time, [email protected] writes: Jon...you said "Before you begin the SP3 install, be sure to create a restore point and backup any critical files. ". Not sure what you mean about a restore point. I've never done that with any windows updates I've done previously. I did the SP3 yesterday & it seems all is working fine. Judy **************Looking for simple solutions to your real-life financial challenges? Check out WalletPop for the latest news and information, tips and calculators. (http://www.walletpop.com/?NCID=emlcntuswall00000001)