One with service pack 1 and one with service pack 2 mean that they are NOT the same.
As Windows 7 don't have a service pack 2, it means that you are probably still using Windows XP.
You MUST update to service pack 3 as soon as possible, then apply ALL available updates.
You don't need to go to the Microsoft site to get them. Use the Windows Update application that you should find in the start menu.
If you have Vista, install the service pack 2 on the one still using service pack 1.
Install ALL availabla patches and updates from Microsoft via the automatic updates service.
Another option, wether you are running Windows XP or Vista, is to upgrade to Windows 7.
Most computers capable of running Windows XP and ALL those running Windows Vista can run Windows 7 without any problem.
Much more robust and safer than both XP and Vista, and faster than Vista.
Upgrading to Windows 8.1 is also a viable option, but you'll be hit by some huge change regarding the interface.
No mather whitch option you choose, be sure to turn ON the automatic updates and set it to download and apply the periodic updates as they become available.
Finaly, especialy if you are short on cash and want to stay fully legitimate, you can switch to Linux. There are a LOT of distributions to choose from. Less superficial/user interface changes than going to Windows 8/ 8.1...
Linux also have an automatic updates mechanism that is ON by default and should be left ON.
Here a great place to visit if you are interested to switch to Linux:
http://distrowatch.com/
It's a portail to the various Linux distributions and flavours.
Electro, October 2014
