Whn i download service pack 2 for windows xp it causes my laptop to freeze and i have to format it why?

The answer might come clear if you have a really strong coffee. Service Pack 2 is part of the Windows operating system. it updates vital Windows files, the things that make your computer tick, and of course, the things that help run programs. If you have any programs running on your computer (Windows excepted) when you install SP2, it will crash. This is because SP2 is trying to replace files that are making the programs run, and Windows can't handle that. So, before you start your installation, make sure that every running program is stopped. Running programs are usually ociated with those little icons on the bottom right of your screen. Right click each of the Icons, and choose "Exit", "Stop" or whatever term they use. The icons will disappear, but they will return when you reboot your computer. Some Icons can't be switched off (such as the volume control) so don't bother with them. Others like your firewall (Windows firewall excepted), anti-virus software, fancy clocks, weather reports etc., etc., MUST be stopped. Am I yelling? You bet I am. Then follow wh1tewolf8's advice.