[i]I’m now convinced that I should install SP3 on my XP box but I still have a question… I’m not quite sure how to word this, for bear with me… 
When Windows Update downloaded this update, which has not as yet been installed, did it download something different for XP Pro versus XP Home? Or is SP3 just SP3 regardless? ???[/i]
I’m not sure if it downloads different things.
What I’m sure - because I’ve installed in both XP Home and Professional machines - is that the installation does the job and install correctly the XP version you have.
I don’t know. I would think the update would include updates for items that are part of pro but not home, such as office etc.
I’ve downloaded the complete installer file for SP3, and the folder size is 316Mb. I would think it’s applicable to both versions, but only installs what is applicable for the version you have.
Hi…
I don’t think SP3 is fundamentally different for either of the two versions but I’m not for sure. I agree with Tarq as far as the updates and is what is actually installed.
I would first make sure that if your system is using an AMD processor, that you first install this patch before you install the service pack to avoid the “continuous loop” boot error described in that link. A quick way to check is to right click on “My Computer” and click “Properties.” The window that comes up should show what processor you have. If you aren’t sure whether it was made by Intel or AMD, please post back with the name mentioned in that window before you install the patch and SP3! 
May God Bless you! 
[i]Thanks all! This was what I was thinking also…
@ardvark; I do have an AMD processor on that box so I will download and install the patch you recommend… :)[/i]