Howdy Gang,I'm getting ready to install Windows XP SP2 (gulp) and in the directions it says to update all computer drivers, etc. first. I have read that there is an important BIOS update for folks with an 800 FSB INTEL MoBo which I have, but I don't believe I have this update (according to the date given in my System Information - BIOS version/date). So, I'm going to update the BIOS, which I haven't done on any computer in years (this board is about 1 yr old). My question is, the directions at the INTEL site tell you to temporarily disable the Active Desktop before doing the update (4. Close all other applications (REQUIRED). Note: This is a required step. Also, if you use Windows XP, Windows 2000 Professional, or Windows NT, you must temporarily disable Active Desktop before performing a BIOS update. This prevents a possible loss of some Active Desktop data. Remember that your system will be rebooted at the last Express BIOS Update window. )I'm not exactly sure how/what to close. I searched the Windows XP "Help" section, but it was its usual non-help. Could some kind soul please clue me in so I don't do anything really dumb here?Many thanks in advance :-).Glenn

Active Desktop is the background/screensaver option that allows data to be displayed on the desktop (usually a calendar or such). If you don't know what it is, you probably don't have it activated so I wouldn't worry about it. I believe you can check to see if you are using it if you right click on yoru desktop and select properties, then look at the background or screensaver tabs. See if it says anything about active desktop being active. Regardless, even if you do update any BIOS, I don't see how it would affect active desktop. Maybe the SP2 install would have an effct? But again, I don't think you have anything to worry about regarding the active desktop thing. Hope this helps a smidge! BTW, did you try googling "active desktop?" That might give you a little more help too. . .Regards,drew

Thankyou Drew! I have an image on my desktop (I'm a photographer as well as a simmer :-) ). I've enabled the "Classic" desktop, so that should work ok for me. Much appreciate the info.Glenn