Your PC will need to reboot after installing Windows 7 SP1 so make sure you save all your work and close your applications before you begin your installation.When installing Windows 7 SP1 on a laptop PC, make sure it’s plugged in to an electrical outlet (AC).This is super important if your PC is infected it could impact your installation of SP1 as well as future updates to your machine. You can download our free Microsoft Security Essentials to check for known malware and viruses or use security software from any of our partners. You should also check your PC for any known malware and viruses before installing Windows 7 SP1. You can do this through Windows Update or device manufacturer’s websites. You should also make sure your device drivers are up to date. Windows 7 has impressive built-in backup capabilities which you can learn about here. It is best practice to regularly backup your PC and important files. Windows Update will provide the best installation experience for you.īefore installing Windows 7 SP1, please backup your PC (and important files) to an external hard drive, DVD/CD or network location. As people begin downloading and installing SP1, I thought I’d take the opportunity to highlight some tips and recommendations for people before moving forward with their installation.įirst off – for those of you simply looking to update a single PC or your home PCs, we recommend using Windows Update instead of downloading the standalone installer (or Network Installation Package) from the Microsoft Download Center. Next week on February 22 nd, everybody else will be able to download SP1 from the Microsoft Download Center or Windows Update. Starting today, MSDN and TechNet Subscribers as well as Volume License customers will be able to download Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1 (SP1).

Service pack backup files