Can't install XP update software

So, I've been fighting this laptop for a couple of years now, it's been a battle. I think I finally kicked the big problem I've been having, with a dos program and reinstalling windows xp, which I just finished doing. Now, I can't update XP. I go to the site, it tells me I need to update the updating software, and when I click install it says it was unable to install. Gives me error 0x80072eff. I've searched around on the internet for a solution, but to no avail. Unfortunately, since it's basically just service pack one, I can't even try many of the solutions. Right now the computer only consists of xp, and the network controller driver. Nothing else has been installed. Not sure what to do here, and ALL help is much appreciated.

Thanks.

Edit:: Forgot, it's a thinkpad t40.


Edit:::Not sure if this is related, but I also keep getting a message that says "windows was unable to find a certificate to log you onto the network". However, the internet appears to be working. Not sure.

 

A guess. Is the XP drive formatted in 32 bit or NTFS? You can install XP with ither formats with XP. Nother guess. The Xp disk should say if a service pac 1-2 or 3 on it.

 

Support for XP SP2 has already ended I believe. SP3 for XP can be downloaded here, http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...A8-5E76-401F-BE08-1E1555D4F3D4&displaylang=en. It is a large download. Hope this helps!

 

Do you use Windows Update or Microsoft Update? Try starting Microsoft Update from http://www.update.microsoft.com/

Also, more solutions for your error code: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/836941