As soon as I run the "xpsp1_en_x86.exe" file it starts extracting to a directory on c:/ and as soon as that is done the following errror message shows up:

"The core system file (kernel) used to start this computer is not a Microsoft Windows file. The Service Pack will not be installed. For more information, see Knowledge Base article Q327101 at http://support.microsoft.com."

Any ideas as to what is going on here ???

Never mind guys, I found the answer. I guess I should have just followed the instructions in the error message to check the microsoft support site. Anyhow for anyone else who might come accross this problem, the following is the cause and solution:

SYMPTOMS
When you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1), you may receive the following error message:

Windows has detected that one or more protected core system files (kernel) on your computer have been modified. The Service Pack contains updated versions of those files, which work to provide a stable environment for your programs. Due to this modification, the Service Pack will not be installed. For more information, see Knowledge Base article Q327101 at http://support.microsoft.com.

CAUSE
This behavior may occur if your computer has a modified version of the Ntoskrnl.exe file that uses the /KERNEL switch in the Boot.ini file. This condition may exist because your computer has a third-party program installed that customizes the graphics that are displayed when your computer starts up. Third-party programs that can cause this condition include the following:
BootXP
LogonUI Boot Randomizer

RESOLUTION
To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
1. Click OK to close the error message.
2. Use Add or Remove Programs in Control Panel to remove the program that customizes the start-up graphics.
3. Restart your computer, and then try to install SP1 again. If the problem persists, go to step 4.
4. On the desktop, right-click My Computer, and then click Properties.
5. Click the Advanced tab, and then click Settings under Startup and Recovery.
6. Under System Startup, click Edit.
The Boot.ini file opens in Notepad.

7. Locate and then delete the /KERNEL= switch.
8. Save and then close the Boot.ini file.
9. Restart your computer.
10. Try to install Windows XP SP1.

NOTE: After you complete the steps to resolve the problem, SP1 should install correctly. However, if your computer is running a modified Ntoskrnl.exe file, you may receive a message when you try to install SP1 that states that the SP1 setup program will replace the modified Ntoskrnl.exe file with an updated version.

STATUS
This behavior is by design.

You using one of those programs listed in the KB article?
/http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q327101
Dave

edit- sorry, I see you found that before I could post.



Last edited by DaveH at Today at 11:58 pm

Yep I figured for once following instructions might be a good idea. :)

Thanks anyhow. It's the thought that counts, is it not?