Microsoft said that because it wants users to have the best possible experience with Windows Vista SP1, it has configured Windows Update to delay offering SP1 to PCs with these identified drivers installed. Microsoft occasionally releases updates such as service packs for its Windows operating systems to fix bugs, improve performance and add new features. Many of these issues have been eliminated by changes made to SP1 between those builds and final the build.

Microsoft has identified a small set of device drivers that may be problematic if installed on a Windows Vista PC that is subsequently updated to SP1.

Windows Vista SP1 will download automatically, but not install without the user explicitly agreeing. There are two ways that users can obtain Windows Vista SP1, it can be downloaded manually from Windows Update, or within a month of release, Windows Update will begin automatically downloading SP1 to PCs set to receive updates. Since 14 February the update had already been available to many technical users via the MSDN & TechNet Plus Subscription programme, Volume Licensing, and the TechBeta programme. Description:Windows Vista Service Pack 1 is an update to Windows Vista that addresses key feedback from our customers.

Microsoft released Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (SP1) to Windows Update and Microsoft Download Centre on 19 March.

Microsoft windows vista service pack 1