Windows XP updates

Are these things good bad? or does it matter.. i have installed every one that has popped up with the automatic update, just wondering if leaving windows XP as is from the CD is the best way to go or if i should install certain ones..

If you're connected to the Internet you'd better update XP. Especially if your using shared broadband like cable modem.

I must live in l33t haxor kid central from all the scans I get.

Most of the updates are to patch holes, fixes, etc. to fix problems that xp users have reported. Rule of thumb is to always install the updates. Also to help protect you from hackers ( in a small way). That is where firewall and viruscan comes to play.