Some of the most common fixes related to Windows Update problems are caused by the following:

• PC time is incorrect.
• You do not have a language chosen under Tool-->Internet Options, Language.
• In W2k and XP, the Cryptographic Services is set to disabled. Re-enable it and try again.
• If you are using Windows XP, then try registering the following files (from the Run command)
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 wuapi.dll > OK
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 wups.dll > OK
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 wuaueng.dll > OK
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 wucltui.dll > OK
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 atl.dll > OK
  • Start > Run > regsvr32 MSXML3.dll > OK
  Restart the computer, and then try Windows Update site again
• If you are unable to download an ActiveX control, install an update to Windows or to a Windows component, install a service pack for Windows or for a Windows component, or install a Microsoft or third-party software program, perhaps one of the links below will be of help.
  • You Cannot Install Some Updates or Programs - 822798
  • MSKB article search results - Windows 98 and Windows Update
  • MSKB article search results - Windows Millenium Edition and Windows Update
  • MSKB article search results - Windows 2000 and Windows Update
  • MSKB article search results - Windows XP and Windows Update
  • MSKB article search results - Windows 2003 Server and Windows Update

Any time you visit WU, a log file is appended with details. If you run into problems, then find the Windows Update.log file (use the search function of your OS to locate the file, usually found under the Windows directory) and find the Error Code referenced. Note! - additional information on the Log file contents can be found in this MSKB article: How to read the Windowsupdate.log file. Then use the Windows Update Troubleshooter specific to the version you are using to help you find the solution.

• WU Troubleshooter Version 4
• WU Troubleshooter Version 5
• WU Troubleshooter Version 6

Often times, people have trouble getting to the Update site by using the link built into the browser (Tools-->Windows Update). Before you panic, try the site by using this link - Version 4, Version 5 or Version 6.

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by Bubba edited by MSeng
last modified: 2005-07-14 21:38:53