Do I need Windows XP SP3?

[CrazyChop]

I have Windows XP SP 3 downloaded for a very long time but haven't go install it just yet. Is it essential? My concerns are that it would break something, or require me to update BIOS drivers or some obscure devices.

Edit: So far my computer works fine and has no problems. So I am thinking "If it isn't broken..."

[hoff]

essentially all SP3 is, is a rollup of SP2 updates with some minor improvements/additions that a normal user would not notice.

There are reports that they it runs faster than SP2 but i can barely see a difference.

I updated to it on my laptop the day it was released with no issues so you should be ok to install it :)

[josephtaylor1995]

it has all the security updates (meaning it is safer) :)

[Twey]

More accurately, it has security updates, so if you don't install it you're leaving your computer open to every script kiddy out there. You should generally keep up-to-date.