Microsoft announced the completion of Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3), the final service pack for Windows XP. SP3 will be made available to PC makers and Microsoft's enterprise customers in the coming weeks. Consumers who want to download the update can do so beginning April 29. Windows XP SP3 not only includes all previously released updates for the operating system; it also includes previously released updates to the latest versions of some system components, as well as functionality for improved compatibility with Windows Vista.

"Today we are happy to announce that Windows XP Service Pack 3 (SP3) has released to manufacturing (RTM). Windows XP SP3 bits are now working their way through our manufacturing channels to be available to OEM and Enterprise customers." wrote Chris Keroack, the release manager for XP SP3, in a posting to Microsoft's TechNet site. "We are also in the final stages of preparing for release to the web (i.e. you!) on April 29th, via Windows Update and the Microsoft Download Center. Online documentation for Windows XP SP3, such as Microsoft Knowledge Base articles and the Microsoft TechNet Windows XP TechCenter, will be updated then. For customers who use Windows XP at home, Windows XP SP3 Automatic Update distribution for users at home will begin in early summer."

Windows XP SP3 includes four minor new features that improve the system's reliability and security. These new features include:

Product Key-less install. As with Windows Vista, new Windows XP with SP3 installs can proceed without entering a product key during Setup.

Kernel Mode Cryptographics Module. A new kernel module that "encapsulates several different cryptographic algorithms," according to Microsoft.

"Black hole" router detection. Windows XP gains the ability to ignore network routers that incorrectly drop certain kinds of network packets.

Windows XP SP3 should be available for download from the Microsoft Download Web site on April 29th, and will be released through Windows Update / Automatic Updates as a optional update on April 29th, and a critical update on June 10.

Windows XP Service Pack 3 Network Installation Package for IT Professionals and Developers