IE 8 Install Caused Registry Damage

Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was slower
than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP automatically.
WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP
(Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my local machine says that I have
Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for Windows XP has correct values.
All other WIN XP functions work OK. Hwree does WIndows Update get the
operating-system version info from?

How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct operating
system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but rather
default.aspx)?

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/971058


"Eric G." <Eric G.@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:C178E6BA-ABB8-4C5E-9B41-...
> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was slower
> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> automatically.
> WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista (Windows NT 6.0) NOT
> XP
> (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my local machine says that I have
> Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for Windows XP has correct
> values.
> All other WIN XP functions work OK. Hwree does WIndows Update get the
> operating-system version info from?
>
> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct operating
> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but rather
> default.aspx)?

What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?

I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP SP3
and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect you
describe, Eric.

If everything else is OK...

Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527

For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY in
the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated with
Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net


Eric G. wrote:
> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was slower
> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my local
> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK. Hwree
> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
>
> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct operating
> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but rather
> default.aspx)?

Thanks for your response.
To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8 due to
perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the Windows
Update problem.
I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
It didn't.

"PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:

> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
>
> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP SP3
> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect you
> describe, Eric.
>
> If everything else is OK...
>
> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>
> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY in
> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated with
> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
> --
> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
>
>
> Eric G. wrote:
> > Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was slower
> > than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> > automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
> > (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my local
> > machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
> > Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK. Hwree
> > does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
> >
> > How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct operating
> > system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but rather
> > default.aspx)?
>
>

Thanks for clarifying.

There is a very good chance that you are seeing the effects of a hijackware
infection!

NB: If you had no anti-virus application installed or the subscription had
expired *when the machine first got infected* and/or your subscription has
since expired and/or the machine's not been kept fully-patched at Windows
Update, don't waste your time with any of the below: Format & reinstall
Windows. A Repair Install will NOT help!

1. See if you can download/run the MSRT manually:
http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx

NB: Run the FULL scan, not the QUICK scan! You may need to download the
MSRT on a non-infected machine, then transfer MRT.EXE to the infected
machine and rename it to SCAN.EXE before running it.

2. [WinXP ONLY!! =>] Run the Windows Live Safety Center's 'Protection' scan
(only!) in Safe Mode with Networking, if need be:
http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/center/howsafe.htm

3. Run a /thorough/ check for hijackware, including posting the requested
logs in an appropriate forum, not here.

Checking for/Help with Hijackware
http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=4075
http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/data/prevention.htm
http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/tshoot.html
http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware

**Chances are you will need to seek expert assistance in
http://spywarehammer.com/simplemachi...php?board=10.0,
http://www.spywarewarrior.com/viewforum.php?f=5,
http://www.dslreports.com/forum/cleanup,
http://www.bluetack.co.uk/forums/index.php,
http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or other appropriate forums as well.**

If these procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting
this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a local, reputable and
independent (i.e., not BigBoxStoreUSA) computer repair shop.

=====================
Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527

Support for Windows Update:
http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport

For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY in
the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated with
security updates.
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002


Eric G. wrote:
> Thanks for your response.
> To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8 due
> to
> perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the
> Windows Update problem.
> I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
> It didn't.
>
> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>
>> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
>>
>> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP
>> SP3
>> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect you
>> describe, Eric.
>>
>> If everything else is OK...
>>
>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>
>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY
>> in
>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
>> with
>> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
>> --
>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
>> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
>> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
>>
>>
>> Eric G. wrote:
>>> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was
>>> slower
>>> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
>>> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
>>> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my
>>> local
>>> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
>>> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK.
>>> Hwree
>>> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
>>>
>>> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct
>>> operating
>>> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but
>>> rather
>>> default.aspx)?

Hi.

When I tried this automatic FIX, it made no difference. But, good try.

"Spirit" wrote:

> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/971058
>
>
> "Eric G." <Eric G.@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:C178E6BA-ABB8-4C5E-9B41-...
> > Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was slower
> > than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> > automatically.
> > WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista (Windows NT 6.0) NOT
> > XP
> > (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my local machine says that I have
> > Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for Windows XP has correct
> > values.
> > All other WIN XP functions work OK. Hwree does WIndows Update get the
> > operating-system version info from?
> >
> > How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct operating
> > system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but rather
> > default.aspx)?
>
>

I see that you have given this answer before to others. My system is
continuously protected by several layers of malware protection both
enterprise level and local. It is very unlikely that what you said occured.

Per my initial question, what registry data is sent to Microsoft when
connected to the Windows Update services. Where are the registry items
located? What values should they be set at for Win XP vs. Vista?

Thanks.

"PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:

> Thanks for clarifying.
>
> There is a very good chance that you are seeing the effects of a hijackware
> infection!
>
> NB: If you had no anti-virus application installed or the subscription had
> expired *when the machine first got infected* and/or your subscription has
> since expired and/or the machine's not been kept fully-patched at Windows
> Update, don't waste your time with any of the below: Format & reinstall
> Windows. A Repair Install will NOT help!
>
> 1. See if you can download/run the MSRT manually:
> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
>
> NB: Run the FULL scan, not the QUICK scan! You may need to download the
> MSRT on a non-infected machine, then transfer MRT.EXE to the infected
> machine and rename it to SCAN.EXE before running it.
>
> 2. [WinXP ONLY!! =>] Run the Windows Live Safety Center's 'Protection' scan
> (only!) in Safe Mode with Networking, if need be:
> http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/center/howsafe.htm
>
> 3. Run a /thorough/ check for hijackware, including posting the requested
> logs in an appropriate forum, not here.
>
> Checking for/Help with Hijackware
> http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=4075
> http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/data/prevention.htm
> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/tshoot.html
> http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
> http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware
>
> **Chances are you will need to seek expert assistance in
> http://spywarehammer.com/simplemachi...php?board=10.0,
> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/viewforum.php?f=5,
> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/cleanup,
> http://www.bluetack.co.uk/forums/index.php,
> http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or other appropriate forums as well.**
>
> If these procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting
> this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a local, reputable and
> independent (i.e., not BigBoxStoreUSA) computer repair shop.
>
> =====================
> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>
> Support for Windows Update:
> http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport
>
> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY in
> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated with
> security updates.
> --
> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
>
>
> Eric G. wrote:
> > Thanks for your response.
> > To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8 due
> > to
> > perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the
> > Windows Update problem.
> > I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
> > It didn't.
> >
> > "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
> >
> >> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
> >>
> >> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP
> >> SP3
> >> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect you
> >> describe, Eric.
> >>
> >> If everything else is OK...
> >>
> >> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> >> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
> >>
> >> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY
> >> in
> >> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
> >> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
> >> with
> >> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
> >> --
> >> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> >> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
> >> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
> >>
> >>
> >> Eric G. wrote:
> >>> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was
> >>> slower
> >>> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> >>> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
> >>> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my
> >>> local
> >>> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
> >>> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK.
> >>> Hwree
> >>> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
> >>>
> >>> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct
> >>> operating
> >>> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but
> >>> rather
> >>> default.aspx)?
>
>

Yes, I frequently post that canned reply. 9 times out of 10, the OP to whom
I'm replying discovers that his problem was due to hijackware infections,
too.

Unlikely, perhaps, but you cannot rule out the possibility of a hijackware
infection causing the behaviors, Eric, despite your "layers of malware
protection." There isn't a security software combination on earth that will
stop or detect & remove all such infections.

Then again, failure to disable all real-time system protections (i.e.,
anti-virus; anti-spyware; third-party firewall) prior to installing and/or
uninstalling IE8 may have caused the problem, in which case I'd usually
recommend using System Restore but that's not an option now since you later
installed SP3.

But you don't certainly don't have to take my advice, since you can
always...

>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527

Good luck.


Eric G. wrote:
> I see that you have given this answer before to others. My system is
> continuously protected by several layers of malware protection both
> enterprise level and local. It is very unlikely that what you said
> occured.
>
> Per my initial question, what registry data is sent to Microsoft when
> connected to the Windows Update services. Where are the registry items
> located? What values should they be set at for Win XP vs. Vista?
>
> Thanks.
>
> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>> Thanks for clarifying.
>>
>> There is a very good chance that you are seeing the effects of a
>> hijackware
>> infection!
>>
>> NB: If you had no anti-virus application installed or the subscription
>> had
>> expired *when the machine first got infected* and/or your subscription
>> has
>> since expired and/or the machine's not been kept fully-patched at Windows
>> Update, don't waste your time with any of the below: Format & reinstall
>> Windows. A Repair Install will NOT help!
>>
>> 1. See if you can download/run the MSRT manually:
>> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
>>
>> NB: Run the FULL scan, not the QUICK scan! You may need to download the
>> MSRT on a non-infected machine, then transfer MRT.EXE to the infected
>> machine and rename it to SCAN.EXE before running it.
>>
>> 2. [WinXP ONLY!! =>] Run the Windows Live Safety Center's 'Protection'
>> scan
>> (only!) in Safe Mode with Networking, if need be:
>> http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/center/howsafe.htm
>>
>> 3. Run a /thorough/ check for hijackware, including posting the requested
>> logs in an appropriate forum, not here.
>>
>> Checking for/Help with Hijackware
>> http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=4075
>> http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
>> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/data/prevention.htm
>> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/tshoot.html
>> http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
>> http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware
>>
>> **Chances are you will need to seek expert assistance in
>> http://spywarehammer.com/simplemachi...php?board=10.0,
>> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/viewforum.php?f=5,
>> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/cleanup,
>> http://www.bluetack.co.uk/forums/index.php,
>> http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or other appropriate forums as
>> well.**
>>
>> If these procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting
>> this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a local, reputable and
>> independent (i.e., not BigBoxStoreUSA) computer repair shop.
>>
>> =====================
>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>
>> Support for Windows Update:
>> http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport
>>
>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY
>> in
>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
>> with
>> security updates.
>> --
>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
>> MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
>>
>>
>> Eric G. wrote:
>>> Thanks for your response.
>>> To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8
>>> due
>>> to
>>> perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the
>>> Windows Update problem.
>>> I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
>>> It didn't.
>>>
>>> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>>>
>>>> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
>>>>
>>>> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP
>>>> SP3
>>>> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect
>>>> you
>>>> describe, Eric.
>>>>
>>>> If everything else is OK...
>>>>
>>>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>>>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>>>
>>>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling
>>>> 1-866-PCSAFETY
>>>> in
>>>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
>>>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
>>>> with
>>>> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
>>>> --
>>>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
>>>> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
>>>> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Eric G. wrote:
>>>>> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was
>>>>> slower
>>>>> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
>>>>> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
>>>>> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my
>>>>> local
>>>>> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
>>>>> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK.
>>>>> Hwree
>>>>> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
>>>>>
>>>>> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct
>>>>> operating
>>>>> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but
>>>>> rather
>>>>> default.aspx)?

Thanks for your response PA Bear.

I agree that it is likely that, "failure to disable all real-time system
protections (i.e.,
anti-virus; anti-spyware; third-party firewall) prior to installing and/or
uninstalling IE8 may have caused the problem".

I did try to restore system from an earlier point first before installing
SP3. It didn't resolve the problem.

As asked in the other thread, how does the Windows Update determine what
operating system I have on my machine? Is is from the registry (User-Agent
or Curent Version items) or through an Active X control code some where on my
hard drive?

My machine performs OK with the exception of two things; 1. I cannot use
Windows Update; 2. I canot re-install McAffey Total Conrol for Small
Business malware protection.

Without doing a clean install of XP, how can I fix the problem?


"PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:

> Yes, I frequently post that canned reply. 9 times out of 10, the OP to whom
> I'm replying discovers that his problem was due to hijackware infections,
> too.
>
> Unlikely, perhaps, but you cannot rule out the possibility of a hijackware
> infection causing the behaviors, Eric, despite your "layers of malware
> protection." There isn't a security software combination on earth that will
> stop or detect & remove all such infections.
>
> Then again, failure to disable all real-time system protections (i.e.,
> anti-virus; anti-spyware; third-party firewall) prior to installing and/or
> uninstalling IE8 may have caused the problem, in which case I'd usually
> recommend using System Restore but that's not an option now since you later
> installed SP3.
>
> But you don't certainly don't have to take my advice, since you can
> always...
>
> >> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> >> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>
> Good luck.
>
>
> Eric G. wrote:
> > I see that you have given this answer before to others. My system is
> > continuously protected by several layers of malware protection both
> > enterprise level and local. It is very unlikely that what you said
> > occured.
> >
> > Per my initial question, what registry data is sent to Microsoft when
> > connected to the Windows Update services. Where are the registry items
> > located? What values should they be set at for Win XP vs. Vista?
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
> >> Thanks for clarifying.
> >>
> >> There is a very good chance that you are seeing the effects of a
> >> hijackware
> >> infection!
> >>
> >> NB: If you had no anti-virus application installed or the subscription
> >> had
> >> expired *when the machine first got infected* and/or your subscription
> >> has
> >> since expired and/or the machine's not been kept fully-patched at Windows
> >> Update, don't waste your time with any of the below: Format & reinstall
> >> Windows. A Repair Install will NOT help!
> >>
> >> 1. See if you can download/run the MSRT manually:
> >> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
> >>
> >> NB: Run the FULL scan, not the QUICK scan! You may need to download the
> >> MSRT on a non-infected machine, then transfer MRT.EXE to the infected
> >> machine and rename it to SCAN.EXE before running it.
> >>
> >> 2. [WinXP ONLY!! =>] Run the Windows Live Safety Center's 'Protection'
> >> scan
> >> (only!) in Safe Mode with Networking, if need be:
> >> http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/center/howsafe.htm
> >>
> >> 3. Run a /thorough/ check for hijackware, including posting the requested
> >> logs in an appropriate forum, not here.
> >>
> >> Checking for/Help with Hijackware
> >> http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=4075
> >> http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
> >> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/data/prevention.htm
> >> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/tshoot.html
> >> http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
> >> http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware
> >>
> >> **Chances are you will need to seek expert assistance in
> >> http://spywarehammer.com/simplemachi...php?board=10.0,
> >> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/viewforum.php?f=5,
> >> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/cleanup,
> >> http://www.bluetack.co.uk/forums/index.php,
> >> http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or other appropriate forums as
> >> well.**
> >>
> >> If these procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in admitting
> >> this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a local, reputable and
> >> independent (i.e., not BigBoxStoreUSA) computer repair shop.
> >>
> >> =====================
> >> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> >> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
> >>
> >> Support for Windows Update:
> >> http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport
> >>
> >> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY
> >> in
> >> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
> >> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
> >> with
> >> security updates.
> >> --
> >> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> >> MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
> >>
> >>
> >> Eric G. wrote:
> >>> Thanks for your response.
> >>> To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8
> >>> due
> >>> to
> >>> perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the
> >>> Windows Update problem.
> >>> I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
> >>> It didn't.
> >>>
> >>> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
> >>>>
> >>>> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for WinXP
> >>>> SP3
> >>>> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect
> >>>> you
> >>>> describe, Eric.
> >>>>
> >>>> If everything else is OK...
> >>>>
> >>>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
> >>>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
> >>>>
> >>>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling
> >>>> 1-866-PCSAFETY
> >>>> in
> >>>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
> >>>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
> >>>> with
> >>>> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
> >>>> --
> >>>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> >>>> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
> >>>> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> Eric G. wrote:
> >>>>> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was
> >>>>> slower
> >>>>> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
> >>>>> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
> >>>>> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my
> >>>>> local
> >>>>> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry for
> >>>>> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK.
> >>>>> Hwree
> >>>>> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
> >>>>>
> >>>>> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct
> >>>>> operating
> >>>>> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but
> >>>>> rather
> >>>>> default.aspx)?
>
>

Short recap: You were dissatisfied with IE8's performance in WinXP SP2.
After uninstalling IE8, you found that Automatic Updates wasn't working and
that you couldn't reinstall McAfee Total Protection.

[Please note that failing to disable your real-time protections and failing
to make certain that your computer was 100% free of any/all hijackware,
etc., infections prior to installing SP3 wasn't a wise idea either.]

1. Can you reach http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com, select CUSTOM and scan
for updates? If so, are any critical security updates offered and can you
install them? (Do NOT reinstall IE8!)

2a. Start | Run | (type) SERVICES.MSN | OK => Is Automatic Updates service
enabled/running? If not, can you enable/start it?

=> Is Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) enabled/running? If
not, can you enable/start it?

2b. Assuming you could enable/start both services, reboot & tell me if both
of them are still enabled/started?

3. Why do you need to reinstall McAfee Total Protection? Have you (or has
your employer) purchased it & is the subscription current?

4a. Open a new IE window to this page: http://aumha.org/mydetail.htm

4b. In the topmost box, highlight & Copy the first two (2) sections to your
clipboard then Paste the contents of your clipboard into a reply to this
post.

Example:

Browser Name: Microsoft Internet Explorer ver. 7.0

Browser & OS: (Major & Minor Version Information) 4.0 (compatible; MSIE
7.0; Windows NT 5.1; .NET CLR 1.1.4322; InfoPath.1; MS-RTC LM 8)

Comment: I suspect that formatting & then doing a clean install may be the
fastest way to resolve all of your problems, Eric.
--
~PA Bear

Eric G. wrote:
> Thanks for your response PA Bear.
>
> I agree that it is likely that, "failure to disable all real-time system
> protections (i.e.,
> anti-virus; anti-spyware; third-party firewall) prior to installing and/or
> uninstalling IE8 may have caused the problem".
>
> I did try to restore system from an earlier point first before installing
> SP3. It didn't resolve the problem.
>
> As asked in the other thread, how does the Windows Update determine what
> operating system I have on my machine? Is is from the registry
> (User-Agent
> or Curent Version items) or through an Active X control code some where on
> my hard drive?
>
> My machine performs OK with the exception of two things; 1. I cannot use
> Windows Update; 2. I canot re-install McAffey Total Conrol for Small
> Business malware protection.
>
> Without doing a clean install of XP, how can I fix the problem?
>
> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>> Yes, I frequently post that canned reply. 9 times out of 10, the OP to
>> whom I'm replying discovers that his problem was due to hijackware
>> infections, too.
>>
>> Unlikely, perhaps, but you cannot rule out the possibility of a
>> hijackware
>> infection causing the behaviors, Eric, despite your "layers of malware
>> protection." There isn't a security software combination on earth that
>> will stop or detect & remove all such infections.
>>
>> Then again, failure to disable all real-time system protections (i.e.,
>> anti-virus; anti-spyware; third-party firewall) prior to installing
>> and/or
>> uninstalling IE8 may have caused the problem, in which case I'd usually
>> recommend using System Restore but that's not an option now since you
>> later
>> installed SP3.
>>
>> But you don't certainly don't have to take my advice, since you can
>> always...
>>
>>>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>>>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>
>> Good luck.
>>
>> Eric G. wrote:
>>> I see that you have given this answer before to others. My system is
>>> continuously protected by several layers of malware protection both
>>> enterprise level and local. It is very unlikely that what you said
>>> occured.
>>>
>>> Per my initial question, what registry data is sent to Microsoft when
>>> connected to the Windows Update services. Where are the registry items
>>> located? What values should they be set at for Win XP vs. Vista?
>>>
>>> Thanks.
>>>
>>> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>>>> Thanks for clarifying.
>>>>
>>>> There is a very good chance that you are seeing the effects of a
>>>> hijackware
>>>> infection!
>>>>
>>>> NB: If you had no anti-virus application installed or the subscription
>>>> had
>>>> expired *when the machine first got infected* and/or your subscription
>>>> has
>>>> since expired and/or the machine's not been kept fully-patched at
>>>> Windows
>>>> Update, don't waste your time with any of the below: Format & reinstall
>>>> Windows. A Repair Install will NOT help!
>>>>
>>>> 1. See if you can download/run the MSRT manually:
>>>> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
>>>>
>>>> NB: Run the FULL scan, not the QUICK scan! You may need to download
>>>> the
>>>> MSRT on a non-infected machine, then transfer MRT.EXE to the infected
>>>> machine and rename it to SCAN.EXE before running it.
>>>>
>>>> 2. [WinXP ONLY!! =>] Run the Windows Live Safety Center's 'Protection'
>>>> scan
>>>> (only!) in Safe Mode with Networking, if need be:
>>>> http://onecare.live.com/site/en-us/center/howsafe.htm
>>>>
>>>> 3. Run a /thorough/ check for hijackware, including posting the
>>>> requested
>>>> logs in an appropriate forum, not here.
>>>>
>>>> Checking for/Help with Hijackware
>>>> http://aumha.net/viewtopic.php?f=30&t=4075
>>>> http://mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm
>>>> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/data/prevention.htm
>>>> http://inetexplorer.mvps.org/tshoot.html
>>>> http://www.mvps.org/sramesh2k/Malware_Defence.htm
>>>> http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/...moving_Malware
>>>>
>>>> **Chances are you will need to seek expert assistance in
>>>> http://spywarehammer.com/simplemachi...php?board=10.0,
>>>> http://www.spywarewarrior.com/viewforum.php?f=5,
>>>> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/cleanup,
>>>> http://www.bluetack.co.uk/forums/index.php,
>>>> http://aumha.net/viewforum.php?f=30 or other appropriate forums as
>>>> well.**
>>>>
>>>> If these procedures look too complex - and there is no shame in
>>>> admitting
>>>> this isn't your cup of tea - take the machine to a local, reputable and
>>>> independent (i.e., not BigBoxStoreUSA) computer repair shop.
>>>>
>>>> =====================
>>>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>>>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>>>
>>>> Support for Windows Update:
>>>> http://support.microsoft.com/gp/wusupport
>>>>
>>>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling
>>>> 1-866-PCSAFETY
>>>> in
>>>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
>>>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
>>>> with
>>>> security updates.
>>>> --
>>>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
>>>> MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Eric G. wrote:
>>>>> Thanks for your response.
>>>>> To clairify = I installed IE8 while I was on SP2. I uninstalled IE8
>>>>> due
>>>>> to
>>>>> perceived slower performance than IE7. After the uninstall, I had the
>>>>> Windows Update problem.
>>>>> I installed SP3 in the hope that the problem would resolve itself.
>>>>> It didn't.
>>>>>
>>>>> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>>>>>> What does "I rolled back to IE7" mean and how did you do it?
>>>>>>
>>>>>> I'd very much doubt that installing the proper version of IE8 for
>>>>>> WinXP
>>>>>> SP3
>>>>>> and then *uninstalling* via Add/Remove Programs would have the effect
>>>>>> you
>>>>>> describe, Eric.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> If everything else is OK...
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Start a free Windows Update support incident request:
>>>>>> https://support.microsoft.com/oas/de...spx?gprid=6527
>>>>>>
>>>>>> For home users, no-charge support is available by calling
>>>>>> 1-866-PCSAFETY
>>>>>> in
>>>>>> the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft
>>>>>> subsidiary. There is no-charge for support calls that are associated
>>>>>> with
>>>>>> Windos Update and/or installing security updates.
>>>>>> --
>>>>>> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
>>>>>> MS MVP-Windows (IE, OE, Security, Shell/User)
>>>>>> AumHa VSOP & Admin; DTS-L.net
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Eric G. wrote:
>>>>>>> Operating System - WIN XP SP3 - After install, IE8 performance was
>>>>>>> slower
>>>>>>> than IE7. So, I rolled back to IE7. Now I can't update WIN XP
>>>>>>> automatically. WIN Update detects operating-system version as Vista
>>>>>>> (Windows NT 6.0) NOT XP (Windows NT 5.1). System Information on my
>>>>>>> local
>>>>>>> machine says that I have Windows XP SP3 installed. Registry Entry
>>>>>>> for
>>>>>>> Windows XP has correct values. All other WIN XP functions work OK.
>>>>>>> Hwree
>>>>>>> does WIndows Update get the operating-system version info from?
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> How do I fix registry (where?) so Windows Update detects correct
>>>>>>> operating
>>>>>>> system version and goes to correct page (not vistadefault.aspx but
>>>>>>> rather
>>>>>>> default.aspx)?