MS Update keeps prompting me to install SP3. I have tried twice and both times the installation appeared OK but form the firs full new reboot my system entered an endless loop.

My PC has an AMD processor but has never had Intel, and I have checked is SP ready andI have done all the obvious fixes. I do not want to spend time on an installation that does not bring any significant benefits - I have found that I do not need most MS updates, and that they often cause problems.

Is it sensible to stop trying to install SP3 or would it be worth reloading Windows to install it - which would involve about two days work?[face=Arial][/face]

Service Pack 3 is a complete waste of time when installed and has caused a lot of machine to malfunction beyond easy repair.
It's time to turn off automatic updates. I am now of the impression that the "apprentices" at Microsoft are in total control and drunk most of the time.

I agree that I have heard nothing but bad about Service Pack 3 and would not recommend getting it, but I disagree that you should turn off automatic updates.  When Microsoft solves a problem or makes Windows more secure, they do so through the updates.  I do not think that the Service Pack 3 is available through the automatic updates (I have my automatic updates turned on and I do not have SP3).

SP3 came to me via automatic updates.  I installed it as recommended and have not noticed any problems with the computer.