Windows 7 SP1 official released

Microsoft have released the first official service pack for Windows 7 today. This update includes all previously released security, performance and stability updates for Windows 7.

SP1 includes new improvements for certain features and services in Windows 7 such as improved relability when hooking up HDMI audio devices, printing using the XPS viewer and restoring previous folders in Windows Explorer after restarting.

You can install SP1 in various ways, but you will need plenty of spare room before installing. Depending on the version you are using it will need between 750MB and over 7GB of space to install.

The fastest, and easiest way, which most people will be using is via the Windows Update service. This will mean a 750MB download for 32bit Windows 7 or 1050mb for the 64 bit version. Click start, click all programs and then Windows Update. Then click ‘Check for Updates' on the left.

The new update is called Service Pack for Microsoft Windows (KB76932), so highlight it and click ok. It may ask for the administrator password if you have on set up. All you need to do is remain connected to the internet. You can also also the SP1 DVD from Microsoft, but this is valid for users only in Canada or the U.S.

KitGuru says: Genuine Windows Validation is required to download Windows 7 SP1, so those of you running a modified version might have a problem. Well, through legal channels anyway.

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