Do Not Download XP SP3 RTM (Build 5512) Integrated Slipstream ISO Image

Whatever you do, make sure you steer clear of downloads from torrent and warez websites that claim to offer the slipstream ISO image of the third and final build of Windows XP Service Pack 3. You have to understand that the downloads claiming to offer Windows XP integrated with Service Pack 3 RTM Build 5512 as an ISO image do not contain an official build from the Redmond company. Despite the fact that Microsoft did indeed make available the standalone update installer packages for XP SP3 RTM to MSDN and TechNet subscribers, it has not as yet delivered the slipstreamed version of the service pack.

"We still plan to begin rolling out the integrated build for Windows XP SP3 during the first week of May," revealed a number of announcements from Microsoft official sources. This is the position of Chris Keroack, Release Manager, Windows Serviceability, Kathy Dixon, from the TechNet Plus subscriptions, as well as Julie H. Cairn, Product Manager - MSDN and TechNet Subscriptions. Keith Combs, Microsoft IT Pro Evangelist stated on the same day that XP SP3 RTM hit MSDN and TechNet that "I'll see if I can find out when the fully integrated Windows XP disks might be posted."

The ISO images that have made their way to torrent and warez websites generally contain a copy of Windows XP SP3 which was slipstreamed with the leaked SP3 RTM from MSDN and TechNet by third parties. The official XP SP3 RTM integrated slipstream ISO image has not been released by Microsoft, but MSDN and TechNet subscribers will most likely start seeing it on May 2, 2008.

But if you are waiting for XP SP3 final Build 5.1.2600.5512 straight from Microsoft, you just have to exercise your patience a tad longer. And considering that Microsoft released SP2 at the end of 2004, a few extra days will not count all that much. Microsoft plans to drop XP SP3 RTM on Windows Update and the Download Center on April 29. Then, on June 10, the service pack will start being served via Automatic Updates.

Update, explanation: Microsoft will make the slipstream integrated version of Windows XP SP3 available only for MSDN and TechNet subscribers, at the beginning of May 2008.

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