Decided to update my Windows XP installation by going to Windows Update. First lesson: you have to use Internet Explorer, as the update process relies on ActiveX controls embedded in the page.

I was asked to scan my PC to determine the updates that I would require. This turned out to be 18 critical security updates, 16 Windows XP updates (whatever that is) and three driver updates.

I decided to start with the security updates. About 18 MB of files were then downloaded and installed, with the various setup programs begging me to permit them to phone home.

I was then prompted to restart my computer. After rebooting, I again went to the same web page and asked for a rescan. Found that two more critical security updates had become available in the meantime. WTF??