Unplug Ethernet during XP install?

Hello there.

I've read the following from a Guide to Installing Windows XP:

Disconnect your machine from the Internet. Unplug the Ethernet cable that goes into the back of your PC. If you use dial-up, then you don't need to worry about this now. Don't assume you are safe because you have a router in place. You probably are reasonably safe, but don't assume so. Disconnect. During the install your machine is at it's most vulnerable. Take no chances, unplug your machine from the Net for now.​

http://www.hps.com/~tpg/win/install.php

Is there any evidence behind the recommendation?
IOW, what's precisely the worse that could happen?

 

If your router has a built-in firewall, there should be no problems leaving your internet connection in. It's never failed for me. If you don't have router or firewall between your pc and modem, then by all means unplug it. It's even more dangerous being plugged in during the install if the install cd is pre SP2.

The sasser worm got me some years ago during an XP install. That's how I learned the hard way.

 

if you have an install cd with service pack 2 and a firewalled router you will be fine and wont need to unplug the cable. its up to you better to be safe than sorry.

 

Blaster got me multiple times too, back then. Those were the good old days...

Oh, I've forgot to add some specifications:
- no router or hardware firewall is present at all;
- the installation CD has SP2 already slipstreamed.

So, do you think the in-installation XP is subject to receive inbound connections, and thus to be a prey for malicious hackers, or else that there's no real risk to let it plugged in because network isn't functional at that early stage?

EDIT: Thank you in advance.

 

firewalled routers are so cheap these days you may as well buy one.
may as well get the offline full service pack 3 installer and install it before doing anything else.

 

That isn't the point...
Let me restate original question:

Is there any evidence behind the recommendation, provided that:
- absence of NAT router / hardware FW;
- XP installation CD is already up to date.

 

Ahh, my mistake. It was the blaster that got me, not sasser

 

with a ethernet modem with a public IP address connected directed to your computer i would unplug the ethernet from your computer to avoid any possible attacks. at this point i wouldnt use a computer without a hardware firewall since they are so cheap. so HP's advice would be correct if you have no hardware router with firewall

 

I think that kind of sums it up.
Thanks, lodore and Mr. Blaster!