In a word: Yes.
The last machine I did had 95 updates on the first round (check again after the updates are installed.)
You can always create a system restore point before you implement the updates.
Unfortunately the black hats can reverse engineer Windows updates in a matter of days now, and exploit your machine accordingly, so best to make it as bullet proof as possible up front. One thing to check is IE's restricted sites level setting, I have seen this set to custom after an installation, and I always reset it to default (high).
Good to hear Dell support was on top of this for you.

I always recommend cloning your hard drive as a back up measure, especially if you have to do something drastic. You will always have everything back quickly, even if your hard drive suffers catastrophic failure.

dcarch

With so many outstanding updates I would recommend doing only "cumulative", and if you use certain MS applications their definition updates. After doing so rerun the update utility. You should see a reduction in the amount.

DA

How do you download the XP operating system?

I read that the updates should be downloaded in sequence is this true? TY

Provide the link where you read it. So we all can see it and see who is saying it.

At the dslreports security forum. I tried to find it so many long threads I gave up. My head hurts from reading on my relic pc - all the posts related to the recent MS update.

Here is a link that might be useful: Broadband forum

I personally never do that many updates at one time just to big a chance to take. I do them in groups and in order presented, I will do a restore point prior to each group then I do from 6-10 or so at one time then reboot make sure all is well then do it again for the next group, doing the restore point between each group allows you a spot to go back to should you get a bad one in the group. And never include a service pack with other updates they should always be done alone, and any specific directions which were issued with the service pack should be followed.

I've yet to really encounter an issue doing all the updates en masse, but there are certainly times to exercise caution. Recall the updates that created issues for brand name pcs with an AMD processor that had the "wrong" Intel file aboard. A backup of critical data is always in order, not just before performing Windows updates. An operating system is relatively easy to replace, not so one's data. Malware can also invoke failure during the update process, so if in doubt, scan first.

wizard, I just wanted to say I have a 6 year old Dell, and though I can no longer extend the warranty (could only get it for 5 years), the last 2 years I had what was called Gold Support. I'm not sure if I paid extra for that over wwhat it would have normally cost for years 4 and 5, but with the Gold Support, my repair call was to be answered in 5 minutes....and it always was.

Additionally, other than the initial repair call to tech support which was overseas (India I think) all the later calls were to US tech folks. LMK if you ever want me to check for a US repair # for you. My one and only call to India was a disaster and drove me nuts.

Additionally, since having the Gold Warranty for years 4 and 5, I am entitled to tech support for the life of the computer.

I've yet to really encounter an issue doing all the updates en masse, but there are certainly times to exercise caution. Recall the updates that created issues for brand name pcs with an AMD processor that had the "wrong" Intel file aboard. A backup of critical data is always in order, not just before performing Windows updates. An operating system is relatively easy to replace, not so one's data. Malware can also invoke failure during the update process, so if in doubt, scan first.

Nancy, lucky you! Dell was usually able to help whenever I had a problem, but it took time and a lot of patience on my part. I was thrilled to make the switch to a Mac last year.

Btw, in case you didn't get my email (via the GW system) ... I made your salted oatmeal cookies last week and am happy to report that they're my new favorite! Love the high ratio of oats to flour. I skipped the salt after the first tray.