Windows XP service pack 2 actually made XP like a new OS it added several features, increased stability and as far as I noticed when slipstreamed actually managed to speed the OS up a bit. I would say it is a definate must. Slipstreaming XP-SP2 is actually VERY easy, even for a person with limited technical knowledge, if you decide to slipstream it just post and I will give you the simpilest instructions possible. If you want to go a little more advanced and add all of the updates and Windows Media Player 10 to your installation disk get ahold of me on MSN and I will walk you through all of it. It really is easy to learn.