When downloading and installing Windows Vista SP1, you will have three download methods. They are: 

  •  Express
  • Standalone
  • Slipstream

Express – The Express installation will require an Internet connection but minimizes the download size by sending only the changes needed for a specific computer.
Standalone – The standalone installation is about 1 GB in size and allows you to install Windows SP1 without an Internet connection.
Slipstream – This version will come with a new the operating system. You will be able to install Windows Vista on a new machine with SP1 already included.

The actual update to Windows Vista SP1 is lengthy but once completed, I very quickly see that things are working better. The operating system is snappier. I encourage you to download and install the release candidate. Let me know your thoughts.