ran windows update -- Windows Installer errors appeared

I'm running a windows xp 32bit OS.

Something as simple as trying to install printer drivers has turned into a myriad of issues that are now beyond my comprehension.

I'll walk you from the beginning providing all information about what has happened since the system was working fine to where it is now:


drivers were not installing, contacted HP service and support to troubleshoot issues.. nothing accomplished.

Tried windows update to see if that would help. Afterwards I was left with a new error problem: Windows Installer

Whenever any program attempts to install I receive a popup that reads as follows:

"Windows Installer"
Preparing to install...
[Cancel]

followed by a second popup that reads as follows:

"Windows Installer"
The Windows Installer Service could not be accessed. This can occur if you are running Windows in safe mode, or if the Windows Installer is not correctly installed. Contact your support personnel for assistance.
[OK]


What I have found through some googles were instructions to try and run a "clean boot" and then try installing Windows Updates again. I have done the "clean boot" and when attempting to install the updates I am presented with a list of updates that were not able to be installed.

I do not know what else there is to do, but I thank you for your time in reading this post in the hopes that some assistance may be found.

-Mike Keeb

 

Hello Halo, and thank you for your time to address this issue!

I have service pack 3 installed now, I have had no malware issues. This all seems to be sprouting from the night I tried to run a windows update in a last attempt to get the printer drivers installed.

As as for your suggestion to installing Windows Installer 4.5 I've already tried this but since my installer is acting up I can not install what you have recommended. I have previously attempted to install "Windows Installer CleanUp Utility" to no avail.