Before You Get Started

• If you are running Windows Vista without having installed Service Pack 1 yet, there are a few different ways you can accomplish this. Before doing so, there a few things that you must do in case something goes awry. First, back up your important files to another storage device. Sometimes when you upgrade an operating system, files become corrupted and unstable. Backing them up allows you to quickly replace the corrupted ones with working files. Close any programs that might be running on your computer, especially anti-virus programs, as they will slow down the installation. If you are installing SP1 onto a notebook computer, plug the charger into the wall and leave it plugged in while the installation takes place.
  
  

Windows Update

• Now you are ready to install SP1, but first, decide which way you will be going about doing it. The first option is to install via Windows Update. To do this, open Windows Update from your Control Panel, and check for new updates. Once you have checked, select Service Pack for Microsoft Windows (KB936330) and click "Install". Now just follow the onscreen instructions and SP1 will be installed. Your computer will restart a few times so do not worry.
  
  

Microsoft Download Center

• The other way of installing Service Pack 1 is to use the Microsoft Download Center. Simply search the download center on any Internet browser for either the 32-bit or 64-bit version of SP1. Download the file, run it and install SP1. Once again, follow the onscreen instructions and your computer will restart several times.