[Fix] Windows XP SP3 Setup Error: Cannot Update a Checked (Debug) System with a Free (Retail) Version of Service Pack 3

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As we all know Microsoft has released the final version of Windows XP SP3 to public and its available via Automatic Updates, Windows Updates and Downloads Center.

Earlier we posted about it at following link:

Windows XP SP3 RTM Available on Windows Update, Automatic Update and Download Center

You can download the SP3 from the above mentioned link.

I have received a few mails mentioning a strange problem which occurs while installing SP3 in Windows XP. A few people told me that whenever they try to install SP3 in Windows XP, Windows shows following error message:

Service pack 3 setup cannot update a checked (debug) system with a free (retail) version of service pack 3, or vice versa.

The reason behind this problem is that the update package installs retail bits on retail builds and checked bits on checked builds. But you can spoof Windows updates in order to install retail bits on checked builds and vice versa.

If you are also facing the same problem, then follow these simple steps and your problem should be solved:

1. Type regedit in RUN dialog box and press Enter. Now goto:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion

2. In right-side pane look for a String value "CurrentType". Change its value to Checked and if its already set to Checked, then set it to Free and click on OK.

3. Exit registry editor and try to install SP3 again. Now it should install without any problem.

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This article was posted by VG in following section: Troubleshooting, Windows XP.

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Lucas

#son

Try to change it to Multiprocessor Checked and then install the SP!

Installing Sp3 wasn't a succes. After the installation i restarted my PC and got into a loop, so I couldn't login anymore. Glad I use Norton Ghost so I got a copy of all the programs and settings. But SP 3 is no succes on my PC. Had to install WinXP again and Norton Ghost to I could restore my PC again!
galen

changed it to Multiprocessor Checked, now working
SSABUK

Worked well. Thanks.
Aditya

hii.. i'm a noob.. can u sumwhat assist me by tellin me hw to change the registry value to "free" or "checked"..?
son

I changed registry from "currentType = Multiprocessor Free" to "currentType = Multiprocessor Checked" but after restarting PC, and i run regedit then value show: "currentType = Multiprocessor Free".
I cannot change this key's value.
Help me
Nejc

THANK you it worked fine
MartianDon

I changed registry from “CurrentType = Uniprocessor Free” to “CurrentType = Uniprocessor Checked” but after restarting PC, and I run regedit then value show: “CurrentType = Uniprocessor Free”. I cannot change this key’s value ... either. It's on a home wifi network. Would the Network option work here? Or is that for server situations? HELP??? Help!!
patrick

Worked well. Thanks.
Spammer

Thanks. worked gr8.
Ernie

Aditya: First you click on start --> run. Type in Regedit. In regedit you go to the path HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion On the right side you find currenttype --> doubleclick and change the value :) Hope this helped