Windows Update Hanging (Different from other post)

I saw another post similar to this and tried the fix listed there but it did not work (the one where you change the LAN Automatically Detect Settings).

Windows Update for me is hanging at a different part. I get up to the section where I can select either Express or Custom. No matter which I select, it will proceed to "Checking for the latest updates for your computer..." and just hang there. It doesn't seem to be checking my computer at all (due to the fact that the activity light is not going off very frequently) and there is no network activity. I have let this hang for 30 minutes and no change.

Oh, and I just finished cleaning this computer up from viruses and malware in case that's important.

Any ideas on how to fix this?

 

See if THIS helps.

 

Unfortunately, my problem does not show up on that list.

Two more things that I think I should mention: One was that, before having this problem, Windows Update used to display that there was an error displaying the page (I did try running the solution that was posted on that but it did not work). For some reason, it stopped doing that and now has the problem of hanging. Also, the computer will sometimes just lose the Taskbar / Start Menu and all of the icons on the desktop (especially on start up). I can resolve this by logging off, through taskmanager, and relogging on. I don't know if that has anything to do with the windows update but I figured I'd post it (I was hoping it would resolve itself by updating windows).

 

They may or may not be related, it's very hard to say, especially when you have had a virus or spyware as they screw your system up.

See if THIS is better.

 

Unfortunately, that didn't work either. I tried several different settings and also looked through some information on dslreports in an attempt to help with what settings would work. No luck.

Any other ideas?

 

We're running out of options fast, especially with my limited mental abilities.

What is the operating system, and do you have a proper Windows CD?

Also, what browser is it, and have you tried to manually download and install the critical stuff?


I would also check Event Log for any clues. Start, run and type in eventvwr.msc (if it's XP or 2K I think)

 

Operating System is Windows XP Home Edition Version 2002. I do have a proper Windows CD but, unfortunately, my friend (it's my friend's computer) does not have her Windows CD Key (otherwise I'd just do a reformat / reinstall).

Browser is IE 6.0.2800.1106.xpsp1.020828-1920. I believe I have most of the critical stuff installed. I am simply trying to get it to work so I can have it completely up to date.

Unfortunately, my friend is coming soon to pick up the computer as she needs it back. So, if you have any other ideas, just let me know and I'll try them before she gets here. Otherwise, I will have to work on this some other time.

I appreciate your time on this.

Edit: I also checked through the logs and did not notice anything unusual.

 

Well, if you don't mind formatting and you have a proper Windows CD, you can use a utility to find out the product key.

We have heaps here like RockXP etc.

If it's activated (Product Activation), you can either save your activation file, or just reactivate it. (personally I think the last option is easier)

 

Man, you guys just are full of usefull tools and help.

I will use that and possibly reformat her hard drive at a later date. She has a huge exam coming up and she needs her computer back for it.

Again, thanks for your time.

 

What makes you think I'm a man or that my tool is usefull?

If you don't want to format, you can always manually download the updates as I suggested earlier, but that depends on you and your friend.

And you're welcome.