Microsoft has a comprehensive page on this subject here: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/sp2_whattoknow.mspx The install is not complicated, but it may take 15-30 minutes depending on your computer and the updates it needs. When it's done, you'll find a new "Security Center", which is just a firewall, popup blocker in IE, and other, less obvious security enhancements. I've installed this update on 2 Dells without any difficulty, but it would be wise to backup your data first. Go for it. **************************************************************************** ** Hello; I was recently notified by Dell I should update windows XP home edition with SP2- it sounds complicated and should I do it> I understand it protects me from invasion by sounds confusing to me. Do you want to signoff PCSOFT or just change to Digest mode - visit our web site: http://freepctech.com/pcsoft.shtml