New - February 23rd, 2011 How to install Windows 7 Service Pack 1 using Windows Update – Step by Step: A step by step guide to successfully installing Service Pack 1 (SP1) when using Microsoft’s Windows Update.
Windows 7 Service Pack 1 Computer Baseline for this article: The baselines where created on a Multi-Boot computer configured with Windows 7 Professional 32-Bit and 64-Bit. SP1 was installed on both versions however only the 64-Bit version was used in developing this guide.
Note: 32 and 64-Bit users can use this guide as there is no difference in the steps or the installation process, however 64-Bit versions of Windows take about 10 to 15% "longer" to install SP1 than 32-Bit versions of Windows 7.
Since this computer is specifically used for testing and evaluating software and hardware, before I started I used Symantec’s Norton Ghost 15 to create a System Image backup of all partitions on the hard drive. Should any problem occur during or after SP1 is installed, the image backup will allow me or you to recover your computer back to the exact same state it was in prior to installing SP1. 1) Steps to take before installing Windows 7 Service Pack 1: Before you take the plunge, take a moment to prepare your computer to minimize the chance of any problems: Click here for additional information on preparation and then return back to continue on.
Free unlimited installation and compatibility support is available for issues related to Windows 7 Service Packs. Availability of chat, phone or e-mail support differs depending on your geographic location. Some issues may require more advanced support for which there may be a charge:https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?&gprid=14496&&st=1&wfxredirect=1&sd=gn
3) Laptop users, keep your laptop connected to AC power: Do not count on a fast download and a fast installation time as laptop processors and hard drives are traditionally slower than desktops (in order to conserve battery power).
4) Service Pack 1 Windows Update Prerequisite: Windows Update KB976902 is a prerequisite before you can install SP1. Therefore if you haven’t already installed this recently released and since updated version of KB976902 do so now.
Click ‘OK’ to install this update. The update will then be downloaded.
A restore point will be created and then the update will be installed.
Note: If you choose not to install KB976902 Windows 7 SP1 is effectively blocked from being installed. However be aware that installing KB976902 may also be a prerequisite for some future updates.
