Windows Update - Cannot Check for Updates

When I check for updates, I get the following error:

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Windows could not search for new updates
An error occurred while checking for new updates for your computer.

Error(s) found:
Code 80073712 Windows Update encountered an unknown error.
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I noticed this because the "New updates are available" always displays at the bottom task bar (by the clock) and shows the same two updates that have already been installed:
Security Update for Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (KB2676562)
Security Update for Windows 7 for x64-based Systems (KB2813170)

I've tried running the "sfc /scannow" in an elevated command prompt but get the following message & error:

Beginning system scan. This process will take some time.

Windows Resource Protection could not perform the requested operation.

Thanks.

 

I had been trying to install this for quite some time and was finally able to, but I still have the same issue.

 

I smell a Trojan (rat) and, one of the first things they do is break Windoze Update.
First, download, save, and run these:
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/download/tdsskiller/
http://www.bleepingcomputer.com/download/roguekiller/
AFTER they come up clean, you may need the All-In-One-Repair-Tool to fix the stuff the bad guy broke:
http://www.tweaking.com/content/page/windows_repair_all_in_one.html

 

davismccarn - thanks for the suggestions but still have the same issue. The tdsskiller tool didn't find anything and I'm not sure if the RogueKiller found anything or not. It had items listed after the scan and I used the Delete button to clear them out...but I couldn't tell if those were trojans or anything.

I ran the Windows Repair tool as well and rebooted and tried Windows Update after that and still receive the error not being able to search for new updates (same code - 80073712). Also, if it matters, going through the steps of this tool, I still wasn't able to run the sfc /scannow option - same issue as I reported in my initial post.

Thanks - hopefully you have other suggestions

 

I also am having an issue with the windows updates.
It tells me Windows Update cannot currently check for updates, because the service is not running. You may need to restart your computer.
I ran the Windows Mr. Fix It and it told me it repaired windows update, but I still get the same message, even after restarting several times. It have Windows 7 Home and use IE. Also, have Vipre Internet Security 2013. Anyone have any idea how to get this to work?:confused

 

Hi,

Can you run the following diagnostic tool. It creates a log which may reveal which services are having issues, if any : Farbar Service Scanner

Put checkmarks in all the options available and then press the Scan button (picture of the application attached).

 

Similar problem.
When browsed, got 'Repair-tool.exe' from helpcomp.com as a fix suggestion.
Havent seen any reviews yet, so not running.
Anyone else tried anything from helpcomp.com ?

 

please help me. iam missing windows update in services.