Hello JTB,
As always, you should make sure that you have got a working system restore
point before you run any test, download or install a new game, application,
or software update, you make changes to your computer.
When downloding a new appllication, or applet, or executable file, or msi
program, I always choose to SAVE them to the DESKTOP, then I make a folder
and copy the download to the new folder
When the program is fully downloaded, I then run my antivirus program
against that saved file to make sure it is virus free. (right click, then
choose scan with "antivirus program").
Once I know it is clean and safely stored, I disconnect from the internet,
turn off my antivirus program, & close all nonessential process in the task
manager.
Microsoft does recommend turning off active antispyware scanners during the
installation process for Microsoft Antispyware.
Then go to the "New Folder" folder and double click on the new application
to install it without interference.
Once it is installed, reboot your computer to start your antivirus program
and previously ended processes automatically, and then if it needs to access
the INet for activation or registration, it can do that safely.
Your firewall may say it found a new application and asks if it is OK, which
you know is fine since you just installed it.
I have never had a problem with failed installations or other program
interference using this simple stepwise process.
Also you can with Dial-a-Fix
Go ahead and download Dial-ª-Fix.
<
http://wiki.djlizard.net/Dial-a-fix> (Download near bottom)
Click the green checkmark and click Go.
After it has finished, Reboot
Try Windows Update and see if you can get your updates installed.
<
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/>
-OR-
<
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144>
Read the article, and although the article may not apply to your machine,
follow the resolution instructiºns.
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Let us know what hªppens.
I hope this post is helpful.
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