KB 954430 keeps installing KB954430

I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.

Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update for
Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based Systems).
According to update history, it's been installed twice, but it still
shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in add/remove programs.

How do I stop WU from offering this?

Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is at sp1)

Pete wrote:
> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>
> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update for
> Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based Systems).
> According to update history, it's been installed twice, but it still
> shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in add/remove programs.
>
> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>
> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is at sp1)

Further to the sp2 question, I found KB 948343, which says that Vista
sp2 may not be offered if there is certain hardware and software
present. However:

This is a Thinkpad T500. It has Intel ICH9 not ICH7 technology.
I didn't use vLite
It isn't an HP TouchSmart IQ700
Windows Live Messenger isn't installed
Vista sp 1 is installed.

See the "How to obtain help" section of
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/954430
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Client - since 2002


Pete wrote:
> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>
> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update for
> Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based Systems).
> According to update history, it's been installed twice, but it still
> shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in add/remove programs.
>
> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>
> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is at sp1)

Pete wrote:
> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>
> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update
> for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based
> Systems). According to update history, it's been installed twice,
> but it still shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in
> add/remove programs.
> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>
> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is
> at sp1)

You won't stop Windows Update from offering anything - that's likely beyond
your power. It's your machine that has the issue and isn't correctly
installing/notifying Windows Update that it has a given update.

Have you investigated the issue *any*?

A search of this specific newsgroup alone for the past year turns up several
hits - just searching for "954430" in the message body, in fact, I find I
have responded to people with similar issues several times over. I will
repeat the answer I gave here - so it will be out there one more time for
anyone who wishes to search for it. ;-)

Viewing the Knowledge Base Article for the update:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/954430

Under "Known issues with this security update", you might read this:

"This security update may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft
Update or on Windows Update if one of the system files is corrupted or if it
has not been updated correctly. For more information about this issue, click
the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge
Base:

[941729] Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
Update"

Which naturally leads you here:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/941729/

Titled: "Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
Update"

With this simple resolution:

To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
1. Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then press ENTER.
2. At the command prompt, type
ren %windir%\System32\msxml4.dll msxml4.old
and then press ENTER.
**Note** After you press ENTER, you may receive the following
error message. "Cannot find the file specified."
Ignore this message, and go to step 3.
3. At the command prompt, type exit, and then press ENTER.
4. Visit the following Microsoft Web site:
http://www.update.microsoft.com
5. Download and then install the latest MSXML security update.

Now - I realize (all too well) that the second KB article and the solution
provided is for Windows XP and you pointed out you have Windows Vista. My
suggestion is to try it anyway.

For #4, I suggest you go here:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sec.../MS08-069.mspx

and scroll down the list to find your operating system. Given the
information you have, the direct link to the download page for the version
you need is:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...0-932c430abd14

So you could download that and install manually for step 5.

Reboot (add a step 6. *grin*)


Possibly - fixing that issue will remedy your issue of not being offered
Windows Vista SP2. However - after you get the update above manually and
you reboot and recheck for more updates... If there are none offered to
you, I do have a few suggestions. You should go through them in the order
given and not skip any. Best if you get through them all - not just do the
ones you want. While you possibly could jump to the 'last resort' option -
there is likely something else wrong with your system if you can get through
all of these without getting SP2 and it would be best if you fixed your
computer. ;-)


First - download and install the following patches:

Description of the Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 installation
software feature update released April 28, 2009
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955430

Given what you have, you will specifically need this version:

Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB955430)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...6-1bd79a1559d3

And the .NET Framework 3.5 SP1:

Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Family Update for Windows Vista x64, and
Windows Server 2008 x64
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...5-0a9c3fbdd20d

(Follow the directions given under "Additional Information" - three files in
a specific order.)

Reboot.

Ensure you have the latest version of the "Windows Update Agent"...

How to obtain the latest version of the Windows Update Agent to help manage
updates on a computer
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949104

Specifically, given what you have, you will download/install:
http://download.windowsupdate.com/wi...gent30-x64.exe

Reboot.

Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.


Second - clean up. Do this whether or not you think there is even the
remotest possibility you have infestations/infections. It's just three
malware scanning applications and if you are clean, they will all find
nothing and report this to you and it will be easy. However - better to run
them. The last thing I have you run here should check your update system
and find any issues there.

Download, install, run, update and perform a full scan (separately) with the
following two applications (freeware versions are the ones to use for this):

SuperAntiSpyware
http://www.superantispyware.com/

MalwareBytes
http://www.malwarebytes.com/

After performing a full scan with one and then the other and removing
whatever they both find completely, you may uninstall these products,
if you wish.

Download and run the MSRT manually:
http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx

Reboot.

Download/install/run through this:

System Update Readiness Tool for x64-based Systems (KB947821) [September
2009]
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...f-0feefc7ff064

Reboot.

Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.


Third - go through the steps in this article:

Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 service packs are not available for
installation through Windows Update
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/948343

Reboot.

Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.


Fourth - you should reboot the computer, log in as a user with
administrative rights, manually check for updates. Once you check, you
should review the contents of your WindowsUpdate.log file.

How to read the Windowsupdate.log file
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/902093

You could - if you wish - post the last 50 or so lines of this log file here
for review... Although I suggest you look through it for obvious errors and
the likes first.

After you clear up any issues, reboot.

Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.


Fifth - if at this point you are still not being offered the SP2 update -
there are a few other quetions I would ask; such as:

- What AntiVirus software are you utilizing? Have you tried disabling it
and trying to get updates?
- What firewall application are you using (or are you using the built-in
Windows Firewall)?
- Are you behind any Internet Proxy server?
- Have you manually (or through any group policies - given this is
"Business" edition) disabled any services?


Sixth - you might get some free support straight from Microsoft while you
can...

Try here first:
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=152713
Following the directions/answering the proper questions.

(For the product - according to your given information, you will select
"Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition (All Languages)"...)


As a last resort - only after doing the cleanup and checks suggested above
and checking/rechecking to see if you are offered the update over time -
download the stand-alone installer and install SP2 yourself:

Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five
Language Standalone for x64-based systems (KB948465)
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...7-b1a6fedf51a7

And install it.

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

Pete wrote:
> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>
> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update
> for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based
> Systems). According to update history, it's been installed twice,
> but it still shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in
> add/remove programs.
> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>
> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is
> at sp1)

Pete wrote:
> Further to the sp2 question, I found KB 948343, which says that
> Vista sp2 may not be offered if there is certain hardware and
> software present. However:
>
> This is a Thinkpad T500. It has Intel ICH9 not ICH7 technology.
> I didn't use vLite
> It isn't an HP TouchSmart IQ700
> Windows Live Messenger isn't installed
> Vista sp 1 is installed.

I have responded already to this posting - please review the various
suggestions I have given you.

That KB article is quite a few suggestions down the line of suggestion I
give you for SP2 installation. There are many things I would do before
resorting to that KB article. ;-)

Also - you should fix the 954430 issue before worrying with SP2. The
general rules for updates as large as service packs to Windows operating
systems are that you ensure your system is malware free, backed up, fully up
to date and working properly *before* you attempt to install the service
pack. Things can go wrong quite easily when installing an update - when you
are essentially installing hundreds (such as you may be installing a service
pack) along with who knows how many other additional changes - you better
have all your 'ducks in a row' - or be prepared to see them get smashed by
that passing truck. ;-)

--
Shenan Stanley
MS-MVP
--
How To Ask Questions The Smart Way
http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> Pete wrote:
>> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>>
>> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update
>> for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based
>> Systems). According to update history, it's been installed twice,
>> but it still shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in
>> add/remove programs.
>> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>>
>> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is
>> at sp1)
>
> You won't stop Windows Update from offering anything - that's likely beyond
> your power. It's your machine that has the issue and isn't correctly
> installing/notifying Windows Update that it has a given update.
>
> Have you investigated the issue *any*?
>
> A search of this specific newsgroup alone for the past year turns up several
> hits - just searching for "954430" in the message body, in fact, I find I
> have responded to people with similar issues several times over. I will
> repeat the answer I gave here - so it will be out there one more time for
> anyone who wishes to search for it. ;-)
>
> Viewing the Knowledge Base Article for the update:
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/954430
>
> Under "Known issues with this security update", you might read this:
>
> "This security update may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft
> Update or on Windows Update if one of the system files is corrupted or if it
> has not been updated correctly. For more information about this issue, click
> the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge
> Base:
>
> [941729] Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
> may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
> Update"
>
> Which naturally leads you here:
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/941729/
>
> Titled: "Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
> may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
> Update"
>
> With this simple resolution:
>
> To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
> 1. Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then press ENTER.
> 2. At the command prompt, type
> ren %windir%\System32\msxml4.dll msxml4.old
> and then press ENTER.
> **Note** After you press ENTER, you may receive the following
> error message. "Cannot find the file specified."
> Ignore this message, and go to step 3.
> 3. At the command prompt, type exit, and then press ENTER.
> 4. Visit the following Microsoft Web site:
> http://www.update.microsoft.com
> 5. Download and then install the latest MSXML security update.
>
> Now - I realize (all too well) that the second KB article and the solution
> provided is for Windows XP and you pointed out you have Windows Vista. My
> suggestion is to try it anyway.
>
> For #4, I suggest you go here:
>
> http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sec.../MS08-069.mspx
>
> and scroll down the list to find your operating system. Given the
> information you have, the direct link to the download page for the version
> you need is:
>
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...0-932c430abd14
>
> So you could download that and install manually for step 5.
>
> Reboot (add a step 6. *grin*)
>
>
> Possibly - fixing that issue will remedy your issue of not being offered
> Windows Vista SP2. However - after you get the update above manually and
> you reboot and recheck for more updates... If there are none offered to
> you, I do have a few suggestions. You should go through them in the order
> given and not skip any. Best if you get through them all - not just do the
> ones you want. While you possibly could jump to the 'last resort' option -
> there is likely something else wrong with your system if you can get through
> all of these without getting SP2 and it would be best if you fixed your
> computer. ;-)
>
>
> First - download and install the following patches:
>
> Description of the Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 installation
> software feature update released April 28, 2009
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955430
>
> Given what you have, you will specifically need this version:
>
> Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB955430)
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...6-1bd79a1559d3
>
> And the .NET Framework 3.5 SP1:
>
> Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Family Update for Windows Vista x64, and
> Windows Server 2008 x64
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...5-0a9c3fbdd20d
>
> (Follow the directions given under "Additional Information" - three files in
> a specific order.)
>
> Reboot.
>
> Ensure you have the latest version of the "Windows Update Agent"...
>
> How to obtain the latest version of the Windows Update Agent to help manage
> updates on a computer
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949104
>
> Specifically, given what you have, you will download/install:
> http://download.windowsupdate.com/wi...gent30-x64.exe
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Second - clean up. Do this whether or not you think there is even the
> remotest possibility you have infestations/infections. It's just three
> malware scanning applications and if you are clean, they will all find
> nothing and report this to you and it will be easy. However - better to run
> them. The last thing I have you run here should check your update system
> and find any issues there.
>
> Download, install, run, update and perform a full scan (separately) with the
> following two applications (freeware versions are the ones to use for this):
>
> SuperAntiSpyware
> http://www.superantispyware.com/
>
> MalwareBytes
> http://www.malwarebytes.com/
>
> After performing a full scan with one and then the other and removing
> whatever they both find completely, you may uninstall these products,
> if you wish.
>
> Download and run the MSRT manually:
> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
>
> Reboot.
>
> Download/install/run through this:
>
> System Update Readiness Tool for x64-based Systems (KB947821) [September
> 2009]
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...f-0feefc7ff064
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Third - go through the steps in this article:
>
> Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 service packs are not available for
> installation through Windows Update
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/948343
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Fourth - you should reboot the computer, log in as a user with
> administrative rights, manually check for updates. Once you check, you
> should review the contents of your WindowsUpdate.log file.
>
> How to read the Windowsupdate.log file
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/902093
>
> You could - if you wish - post the last 50 or so lines of this log file here
> for review... Although I suggest you look through it for obvious errors and
> the likes first.
>
> After you clear up any issues, reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Fifth - if at this point you are still not being offered the SP2 update -
> there are a few other quetions I would ask; such as:
>
> - What AntiVirus software are you utilizing? Have you tried disabling it
> and trying to get updates?
> - What firewall application are you using (or are you using the built-in
> Windows Firewall)?
> - Are you behind any Internet Proxy server?
> - Have you manually (or through any group policies - given this is
> "Business" edition) disabled any services?
>
>
> Sixth - you might get some free support straight from Microsoft while you
> can...
>
> Try here first:
> http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=152713
> Following the directions/answering the proper questions.
>
> (For the product - according to your given information, you will select
> "Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition (All Languages)"...)
>
>
> As a last resort - only after doing the cleanup and checks suggested above
> and checking/rechecking to see if you are offered the update over time -
> download the stand-alone installer and install SP2 yourself:
>
> Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five
> Language Standalone for x64-based systems (KB948465)
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...7-b1a6fedf51a7
>
> And install it.
>

Interim update -- not done yet.

Thanks for the extremely detailed list of things to do.

The msxml4 update issue is fixed.

Note that a few steps have to be modified for Vista -- you need to open
the Command Prompt window using Run As Administrator, and you also need
to Run As Administrator for the msxml update package. The first time I
tried this, I was offered the choices to Modify, Repair, or Uninstall
msxml4. I tried Repair, but no joy, even after rebooting. The next time,
I tried Uninstall, then rebooted, and the next time I ran the download I
was offered the choice to Install. After a reboot, I went back to
Windows Update. Although this initially still showed the d/l as
required, that was a "leftover" because when I "checked for updates" WU
finally recognized that the msxml4 update was installed.

Interestingly, the file msxml4.dll was never in %windir%/System32,
either before or after the install.

I'm still working on the sp2 issue. According to the list of installed
updates (in what XP called Add or Remove Programs), KB955430 and .NET
Framework 3.5 SP1 are installed, so I did not reinstall these. Do I need
to UNinstall these and reinstall from stand-alone downloads?

Although somewhere in the various Windows Updates performed I saw
something about installing an update to Windows Update, I didn't see
KB949104 listed in the list of installed updates, so I downloaded it and
installed it.

After reboot, still no SP2.

Although I think there is only the remotest possibility that there is
any malware on this machine, I downloaded MBAM and SAS. MBAM is scanning
now. When that is done, I will scan with SAS. When that is done I will
scan with the MSRT (although this also was downloaded and run
automatically).

After that, I'll continue with the rest of your suggestions.

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> Pete wrote:
>> I'm trying to set up a new Vista Business 64 computer.
>>
>> Windows Update keeps trying to install KB 954430 (Security Update
>> for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2 for x64-based
>> Systems). According to update history, it's been installed twice,
>> but it still shows as an "available update." It shows (once) in
>> add/remove programs.
>> How do I stop WU from offering this?
>>
>> Also, why isn't WU offering me Vista sp2? (the system currently is
>> at sp1)
>
> You won't stop Windows Update from offering anything - that's likely beyond
> your power. It's your machine that has the issue and isn't correctly
> installing/notifying Windows Update that it has a given update.
>
> Have you investigated the issue *any*?
>
> A search of this specific newsgroup alone for the past year turns up several
> hits - just searching for "954430" in the message body, in fact, I find I
> have responded to people with similar issues several times over. I will
> repeat the answer I gave here - so it will be out there one more time for
> anyone who wishes to search for it. ;-)
>
> Viewing the Knowledge Base Article for the update:
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/954430
>
> Under "Known issues with this security update", you might read this:
>
> "This security update may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft
> Update or on Windows Update if one of the system files is corrupted or if it
> has not been updated correctly. For more information about this issue, click
> the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge
> Base:
>
> [941729] Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
> may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
> Update"
>
> Which naturally leads you here:
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/941729/
>
> Titled: "Security updates for Microsoft XML Core Services 4.0 Service Pack 2
> may repeatedly appear in the update list on Microsoft Update or on Windows
> Update"
>
> With this simple resolution:
>
> To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
> 1. Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then press ENTER.
> 2. At the command prompt, type
> ren %windir%\System32\msxml4.dll msxml4.old
> and then press ENTER.
> **Note** After you press ENTER, you may receive the following
> error message. "Cannot find the file specified."
> Ignore this message, and go to step 3.
> 3. At the command prompt, type exit, and then press ENTER.
> 4. Visit the following Microsoft Web site:
> http://www.update.microsoft.com
> 5. Download and then install the latest MSXML security update.
>
> Now - I realize (all too well) that the second KB article and the solution
> provided is for Windows XP and you pointed out you have Windows Vista. My
> suggestion is to try it anyway.
>
> For #4, I suggest you go here:
>
> http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sec.../MS08-069.mspx
>
> and scroll down the list to find your operating system. Given the
> information you have, the direct link to the download page for the version
> you need is:
>
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...0-932c430abd14
>
> So you could download that and install manually for step 5.
>
> Reboot (add a step 6. *grin*)
>
>
> Possibly - fixing that issue will remedy your issue of not being offered
> Windows Vista SP2. However - after you get the update above manually and
> you reboot and recheck for more updates... If there are none offered to
> you, I do have a few suggestions. You should go through them in the order
> given and not skip any. Best if you get through them all - not just do the
> ones you want. While you possibly could jump to the 'last resort' option -
> there is likely something else wrong with your system if you can get through
> all of these without getting SP2 and it would be best if you fixed your
> computer. ;-)
>
>
> First - download and install the following patches:
>
> Description of the Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 installation
> software feature update released April 28, 2009
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/955430
>
> Given what you have, you will specifically need this version:
>
> Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB955430)
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...6-1bd79a1559d3
>
> And the .NET Framework 3.5 SP1:
>
> Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Family Update for Windows Vista x64, and
> Windows Server 2008 x64
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...5-0a9c3fbdd20d
>
> (Follow the directions given under "Additional Information" - three files in
> a specific order.)
>
> Reboot.
>
> Ensure you have the latest version of the "Windows Update Agent"...
>
> How to obtain the latest version of the Windows Update Agent to help manage
> updates on a computer
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949104
>
> Specifically, given what you have, you will download/install:
> http://download.windowsupdate.com/wi...gent30-x64.exe
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Second - clean up. Do this whether or not you think there is even the
> remotest possibility you have infestations/infections. It's just three
> malware scanning applications and if you are clean, they will all find
> nothing and report this to you and it will be easy. However - better to run
> them. The last thing I have you run here should check your update system
> and find any issues there.
>
> Download, install, run, update and perform a full scan (separately) with the
> following two applications (freeware versions are the ones to use for this):
>
> SuperAntiSpyware
> http://www.superantispyware.com/
>
> MalwareBytes
> http://www.malwarebytes.com/
>
> After performing a full scan with one and then the other and removing
> whatever they both find completely, you may uninstall these products,
> if you wish.
>
> Download and run the MSRT manually:
> http://www.microsoft.com/security/ma...e/default.mspx
>
> Reboot.
>
> Download/install/run through this:
>
> System Update Readiness Tool for x64-based Systems (KB947821) [September
> 2009]
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...f-0feefc7ff064
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Third - go through the steps in this article:
>
> Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008 service packs are not available for
> installation through Windows Update
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/948343
>
> Reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Fourth - you should reboot the computer, log in as a user with
> administrative rights, manually check for updates. Once you check, you
> should review the contents of your WindowsUpdate.log file.
>
> How to read the Windowsupdate.log file
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/902093
>
> You could - if you wish - post the last 50 or so lines of this log file here
> for review... Although I suggest you look through it for obvious errors and
> the likes first.
>
> After you clear up any issues, reboot.
>
> Check for any additional updates because of what you did above.
>
>
> Fifth - if at this point you are still not being offered the SP2 update -
> there are a few other quetions I would ask; such as:
>
> - What AntiVirus software are you utilizing? Have you tried disabling it
> and trying to get updates?
> - What firewall application are you using (or are you using the built-in
> Windows Firewall)?
> - Are you behind any Internet Proxy server?
> - Have you manually (or through any group policies - given this is
> "Business" edition) disabled any services?
>
>
> Sixth - you might get some free support straight from Microsoft while you
> can...
>
> Try here first:
> http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=152713
> Following the directions/answering the proper questions.
>
> (For the product - according to your given information, you will select
> "Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition (All Languages)"...)
>
>
> As a last resort - only after doing the cleanup and checks suggested above
> and checking/rechecking to see if you are offered the update over time -
> download the stand-alone installer and install SP2 yourself:
>
> Windows Server 2008 Service Pack 2 and Windows Vista Service Pack 2 - Five
> Language Standalone for x64-based systems (KB948465)
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...7-b1a6fedf51a7
>
> And install it.
>

No joy getting SP2 offered by WU. I'll list your suggestions and my results:

1. I did get the msxml4 update installed, or at least WU no longer
offers it. Rebooted, but no offer of SP2.

2. Install patches:
KB 955430 was already installed and not uninstallable. Nevertheless,
I downloaded the patch. When I ran it, it said "not applicable to your
system" and stopped.
.NET Framework 3.5 sp1 was already installed, showing the following
3 patches: KB953595, KB958484, and KB963707. The "Family Update" link
to which you directed me wanted the following 3 files installed in this
order: KB958481, KB958483, and KB958484. I uninstalled KB958484. When I
ran the first two patches, I got the "not applicable to your system"
message. KB958484 reinstalled fine. Rebooted and no offer of SP2.
KB949104 downloaded and installed. Rebooted and no offer of SP2.

3. Clean up.
MBAM found one "infected" registry entry related to an IE homepage
hijack. I hadn't noticed any issue with IE (this might have resulted
from Lenovo's forcing of a home page). I allowed MBAM to remove this. No
other items were found by MBAM.
SAS found only 16 tracking cookies. SAS removed these.
MSRT didn't find anything.
Rebooted and no offer of SP2.
System Update Readiness Tool KB947821 downloaded and run. Rebooted
and no offer of SP2.

4. Suggestions from KB948343
Checked and SP1 (not a prerelease version) is installed.
WU shows 5 Optional updates. Despite the article, I'm very reluctant
to install any of them, particularly the driver. Here they are:
Silverlight (KB974331)
Intel 82567LM Gigabit Network Connection
Group Policy Preference Client Side Extensions (KB943729)
Windows PowerShell 1.0 (KB928439)
OfficeLive add-in 1.4 (includes Silverlight)
There were no hidden updates.
Already ran the System Update Readiness Tool.
H/W & S/W that will prevent WU from offering SP2
"Intel ICH7 systems with Bluetooth that are connected to a USB
2.0 hub" -- As near as I can tell, I don't have this. The computer does
have integrated Bluetooth, but according to msinfo32, it has Intel ICH9
Family USB Universal Host Controllers. I'm not sure how to determine
what Bluetooth is connected to.
vLite wasn't used (at least as far as I'm aware; the Vista was
preloaded by Lenovo).
System is not an HP TouchSmart IQ700 model
Windows Live Messenger 14 is not installed.

5. WU Log. This is really long. Some of the entries were run about two
weeks before I received the computer. I assume that this was done at the
Lenovo factory after the initial Vista image was loaded. There were a
number of FATAL and WARNING errors both in that part and in the part
that I ran.

Following is a section around the only FATAL error that occurred while I
was using WU:

2009-10-21 15:02:51:943 3312 404 Setup Installing setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Core-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788"
2009-10-21 15:02:57:762 3312 404 Setup Install of setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Core-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788"
succeeded
2009-10-21 15:02:57:762 3312 404 Setup Installing setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-ActiveX~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788"
2009-10-21 15:02:59:415 3312 404 Setup Install of setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-ActiveX~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788" succeeded
2009-10-21 15:02:59:415 3312 404 Setup Installing setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Aux-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788"
2009-10-21 15:03:01:303 3312 404 Setup WARNING: CBS installation failed,
error = 0x800F0806
2009-10-21 15:03:01:303 3312 404 Setup WARNING: Install of setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Aux-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.2.6001.788"
failed, error = 0x8024D00E
2009-10-21 15:03:01:303 3312 404 Setup FATAL: Failed to install package,
error = 0x8024D00E
2009-10-21 15:03:01:303 3312 404 Setup WARNING: Installing applicable
setup packages failed, error = 0x8024D00E
2009-10-21 15:03:01:319 3312 404 Setup Reboot is required. Diagnostic:
<0|0>

And this is what looks like the last time I used WU:
2009-10-21 19:29:14:522 1116 1688 Misc =========== Logging initialized
(build: 7.4.7600.226, tz: -0400) ===========
2009-10-21 19:29:14:568 1116 1688 Misc = Process:
C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe
2009-10-21 19:29:14:568 1116 1688 Misc = Module:
c:\windows\system32\wuaueng.dll
2009-10-21 19:29:14:522 1116 1688 Service *************
2009-10-21 19:29:14:568 1116 1688 Service ** START ** Service: Service
startup
2009-10-21 19:29:14:568 1116 1688 Service *********
2009-10-21 19:29:15:130 1116 1688 Agent * WU client version 7.4.7600.226
2009-10-21 19:29:15:130 1116 1688 Agent * Base directory:
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
2009-10-21 19:29:15:130 1116 1688 Agent * Access type: No proxy
2009-10-21 19:29:15:161 1116 1688 Agent * Network state: Connected
2009-10-21 19:29:16:768 1116 6a4 Report CWERReporter::Init succeeded
2009-10-21 19:29:16:768 1116 6a4 Agent *********** Agent: Initializing
Windows Update Agent ***********
2009-10-21 19:29:16:784 1116 6a4 Agent *********** Agent: Initializing
global settings cache ***********
2009-10-21 19:29:16:784 1116 6a4 Agent * WSUS server: <NULL>
2009-10-21 19:29:16:784 1116 6a4 Agent * WSUS status server: <NULL>
2009-10-21 19:29:16:784 1116 6a4 Agent * Target group: (Unassigned
Computers)
2009-10-21 19:29:16:784 1116 6a4 Agent * Windows Update access
disabled: No
2009-10-21 19:29:16:815 1116 6a4 DnldMgr Download manager restoring 0
downloads
2009-10-21 19:29:16:862 1116 6a4 AU ########### AU: Initializing
Automatic Updates ###########
2009-10-21 19:29:16:893 1116 6a4 AU # Approval type: Pre-install
notify (User preference)
2009-10-21 19:29:16:893 1116 6a4 AU # Auto-install minor updates: No
(User preference)
2009-10-21 19:29:18:016 1116 1688 Report *********** Report:
Initializing static reporting data ***********
2009-10-21 19:29:18:016 1116 1688 Report * OS Version = 6.0.6001.1.0.65792
2009-10-21 19:29:18:016 1116 1688 Report * OS Product Type = 0x00000006
2009-10-21 19:29:18:375 1116 1688 Report * Computer Brand = LENOVO
2009-10-21 19:29:18:375 1116 1688 Report * Computer Model = 2081CTO
2009-10-21 19:29:18:390 1116 1688 Report * Bios Revision = 6FET76WW
(3.06 )
2009-10-21 19:29:18:390 1116 1688 Report * Bios Name = Ver 1.00PARTTBL(
2009-10-21 19:29:18:390 1116 1688 Report * Bios Release Date =
2009-08-27T00:00:00
2009-10-21 19:29:18:390 1116 1688 Report * Locale ID = 1033
2009-10-21 19:29:20:028 1116 6a4 AU Initializing featured updates
2009-10-21 19:29:20:028 1116 6a4 AU Found 0 cached featured updates
2009-10-21 19:29:20:325 1116 6a4 AU AU finished delayed initialization
2009-10-21 19:29:23:309 1116 6a4 AU Getting featured update
notifications. fIncludeDismissed = true
2009-10-21 19:29:23:309 1116 6a4 AU No featured updates available.
2009-10-21 19:29:25:056 1116 1740 Report CWERReporter finishing event
handling. (00000000)
2009-10-21 19:30:36:950 1116 d94 AU Triggering AU detection through
DetectNow API
2009-10-21 19:30:36:950 1116 d94 AU Triggering Online detection
(interactive)
2009-10-21 19:30:36:950 1116 1688 AU #############
2009-10-21 19:30:36:950 1116 1688 AU ## START ## AU: Search for updates
2009-10-21 19:30:36:950 1116 1688 AU #########
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1688 AU <<## SUBMITTED ## AU: Search for
updates [CallId = {3F800534-2545-458E-84A7-800A36A94864}]
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent *************
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent ** START ** Agent: Finding
updates [CallerId = AutomaticUpdates]
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent *********
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent * Online = Yes; Ignore
download priority = No
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent * Criteria = "IsInstalled=0
and DeploymentAction='Installation' or IsPresent=1 and
DeploymentAction='Uninstallation' or IsInstalled=1 and
DeploymentAction='Installation' and RebootRequired=1 or IsInstalled=0
and DeploymentAction='Uninstallation' and RebootRequired=1"
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent * ServiceID =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D} Third party service
2009-10-21 19:30:36:981 1116 1740 Agent * Search Scope = {Machine}
2009-10-21 19:30:37:059 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv4wuredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:37:137 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:37:933 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv4wuredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:37:933 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:37:995 1116 1740 Agent Checking for updated auth cab
for service 7971f918-a847-4430-9279-4a52d1efe18d at
http://download.windowsupdate.com/v9...dir/muauth.cab
2009-10-21 19:30:37:995 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\AuthCabs\authcab.c ab:
2009-10-21 19:30:37:995 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:38:635 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\AuthCabs\authcab.c ab:
2009-10-21 19:30:38:635 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:38:635 1116 1740 Setup Checking for agent SelfUpdate
2009-10-21 19:30:38:635 1116 1740 Setup Client version: Core:
7.4.7600.226 Aux: 7.4.7600.226
2009-10-21 19:30:38:666 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv4wuredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:38:666 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:39:259 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv4wuredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:39:259 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:39:306 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SelfUpdate\wuident .cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:39:337 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:40:273 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SelfUpdate\wuident .cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:40:273 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:40:304 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SelfUpdate\wsus3se tup.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:40:335 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:40:991 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SelfUpdate\wsus3se tup.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:40:991 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:41:084 1116 1740 Setup Determining whether a new setup
handler needs to be downloaded
2009-10-21 19:30:41:115 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\SelfUpdate\Handler \WuSetupV.exe:
2009-10-21 19:30:41:131 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:41:131 1116 1740 Setup SelfUpdate handler update NOT
required: Current version: 7.4.7600.226, required version: 7.4.7600.226
2009-10-21 19:30:41:131 1116 1740 Setup Evaluating applicability of
setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-ActiveX~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226"
2009-10-21 19:30:41:147 1116 1740 Setup Setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-ActiveX~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226" is
already installed.
2009-10-21 19:30:41:147 1116 1740 Setup Evaluating applicability of
setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Aux-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226"
2009-10-21 19:30:41:209 1116 1740 Setup Setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Aux-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226"
is already installed.
2009-10-21 19:30:41:209 1116 1740 Setup Evaluating applicability of
setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Core-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226"
2009-10-21 19:30:41:271 1116 1740 Setup Setup package
"WUClient-SelfUpdate-Core-TopLevel~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~7.4.7600.226"
is already installed.
2009-10-21 19:30:41:271 1116 1740 Setup SelfUpdate check completed.
SelfUpdate is NOT required.
2009-10-21 19:30:49:025 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv4muredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:49:025 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:50:117 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv4muredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:30:50:117 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:30:50:117 1116 1740 PT +++++++++++ PT: Synchronizing
server updates +++++++++++
2009-10-21 19:30:50:117 1116 1740 PT + ServiceId =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}, Server URL =
https://www.update.microsoft.com/v6/...ce/client.asmx
2009-10-21 19:31:09:726 1116 1740 Driver Matched driver to device
PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_10F5&SUBSYS_20EE17AA&REV_03
2009-10-21 19:31:09:726 1116 1740 Driver Status: 0x180200a,
ProblemNumber: 00000000
2009-10-21 19:31:19:523 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv4muredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:31:19:523 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:31:20:209 1116 1740 Misc Validating signature for
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv4muredir.cab:
2009-10-21 19:31:20:209 1116 1740 Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-10-21 19:31:20:209 1116 1740 PT +++++++++++ PT: Synchronizing
extended update info +++++++++++
2009-10-21 19:31:20:209 1116 1740 PT + ServiceId =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}, Server URL =
https://www.update.microsoft.com/v6/...ce/client.asmx
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{DFED1488-A8DB-44A6-B403-BC92696D9CE6}.102 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{86257641-3137-4584-A786-873E2EFF9AFB}.100 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{21BCAD0E-37DF-4D5F-B806-48841D2D149A}.100 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{5F569A2D-C253-4690-B7DD-416BEFE23A20}.100 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{B22FF8ED-582A-4380-9C6D-79FA20B29609}.101 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Added update
{30932BC2-864C-49F7-B29D-1A70DC3E4D65}.101 to search result
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Added update
{47A6349C-317D-4AF4-AAC0-F0CAF040CCB5}.100 to search result
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Added update
{40938327-953E-430C-B711-016CF861421E}.102 to search result
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent Update
{87C66D63-B877-4A92-9DE9-FEF73A4BA530}.100 is pruned out due to
potential supersedence
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Added update
{7A36980D-E75C-4B2F-9D9E-2727E3E8DA13}.100 to search result
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Added update
{870866B2-C082-4DF6-8E15-B2E44D033FEB}.100 to search result
2009-10-21 19:31:30:708 1116 1740 Agent * Found 5 updates and 62
categories in search; evaluated appl. rules of 1355 out of 2185 deployed
entities
2009-10-21 19:31:30:739 1116 1740 Agent *********
2009-10-21 19:31:30:739 1116 1740 Agent ** END ** Agent: Finding
updates [CallerId = AutomaticUpdates]
2009-10-21 19:31:30:739 1116 1740 Agent *************
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU >>## RESUMED ## AU: Search for
updates [CallId = {3F800534-2545-458E-84A7-800A36A94864}]
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU # 5 updates detected
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #########
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU ## END ## AU: Search for updates
[CallId = {3F800534-2545-458E-84A7-800A36A94864}]
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #############
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #############
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU ## START ## AU: Refresh featured
updates info
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #########
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU No featured updates available.
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #########
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU ## END ## AU: Refresh featured
updates info
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU #############
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU No featured updates notifications
to show
2009-10-21 19:31:30:770 1116 161c AU AU setting next detection timeout
to 2009-10-22 20:17:55
2009-10-21 19:31:30:833 1116 d94 AU Getting featured update
notifications. fIncludeDismissed = true
2009-10-21 19:31:30:833 1116 d94 AU No featured updates available.
2009-10-21 19:31:35:747 1116 1740 Report REPORT EVENT:
{132D3024-2AC7-4FED-A442-EA07BBE0C5EF} 2009-10-21
19:31:30:739-0400 1 147 101
{00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000} 0 0 AutomaticUpdates Success
Software Synchronization Windows Update Client successfully detected 5
updates.
2009-10-21 19:31:35:747 1116 1740 Report CWERReporter finishing event
handling. (00000000)

If you're willing, I could upload the entire log file to a website from
which you could retrieve it.

6. Questions
A/V: Using NOD32 a/v. Tried disabling it and going to WU, but SP2
still not offered.
Using only Windows firewall.
No Internet Proxy in use
No services disabled either manually or by GP.

7. MS Support -- pending

8. Last resort. I'm not there yet.