windows/microsoft update lock-up

if i try to run windows update in any way, including going to the web site,
it locks up. internet explorer locks up when going to the web site so the
only way i can clear IE is through task manager. the windows update tab in
the systems folder is blank, and locks up, it will not go away until i
restart, and the restart hangs after trying to restart when this happens. i
recently recieved and installed XPSP2 with a CD as i could not update via the
web site. SP2 security center says automatic updates is enabled and ON
automatic. after trying to click on it it locked up as well. Absolutely
everything associated with windows update does not work. Any ideas?

O'Die