XP SP3 WU problem

Hello,
recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for more than
half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212 121911) installing on
my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
I've tried many solutions like:
-reinstall WUA
-register wups2.dll
-rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
-reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta

Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and Automatic
updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU history were about
April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU history disappeared.

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance

Baalik wrote:
> recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for
> more than half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212
> 121911) installing on my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
> I've tried many solutions like:
> -reinstall WUA
> -register wups2.dll
> -rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
> -reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta
>
> Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and
> Automatic updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU
> history were about April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU
> history disappeared.

So - do you need updates now?

If so - are you saying that even if you go to
http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan, it tells
you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority and/or optional
software)?

What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet Explorer 8 and
revert back to a supported/current version of Internet Explorer?

What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show Updates"
checked) as far as the updates usually found near the bottom of the list?
What is the last installed date (Windows XP - Software Updates title,
followed by many updates - should see about 8 or so from November 2008
through today.)

If you see none...

Try to update again (go to the web page, custom scan for updates.)

Then open the Windows Update log and copy the last 50
lines or so and post them in response to this conversation...

To open the Windows Update Log file...
Start button --> RUN --> type in:
notepad %windir%\WindowsUpdate.log
--> Click OK

Copy the last 50 lines or so, paste them here.

After you post it - try the following:

Get Dial-a-Fix (download, save, install, run...):
http://wiki.djlizard.net/Dial-a-fix

Use its options to fix:
- Windows Installer
- Windows Update
- All the Registration Center options.

Turn off the "Empty System32\Catroot 2"
Do NOT do "Flush SoftwareDistribution".

Then click "GO" and wait until it is done...
Reboot will be needed.

- Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ and scan for/install updates.

Come back and let us know if there is any difference.

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

Baalik wrote:
> recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for
> more than half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212
> 121911) installing on my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
> I've tried many solutions like:
> -reinstall WUA
> -register wups2.dll
> -rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
> -reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta
>
> Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and
> Automatic updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU
> history were about April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU
> history disappeared.

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> So - do you need updates now?
>
> If so - are you saying that even if you go to
> http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan,
> it tells you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority
> and/or optional software)?
>
> What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet
> Explorer 8 and revert back to a supported/current version of
> Internet Explorer?
> What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show
> Updates" checked) as far as the updates usually found near the
> bottom of the list? What is the last installed date (Windows XP -
> Software Updates title, followed by many updates - should see about
> 8 or so from November 2008 through today.)
>
> If you see none...
>
> Try to update again (go to the web page, custom scan for updates.)
>
> Then open the Windows Update log and copy the last 50
> lines or so and post them in response to this conversation...
>
> To open the Windows Update Log file...
> Start button --> RUN --> type in:
> notepad %windir%\WindowsUpdate.log
> --> Click OK
>
> Copy the last 50 lines or so, paste them here.
>
> After you post it - try the following:
>
> Get Dial-a-Fix (download, save, install, run...):
> http://wiki.djlizard.net/Dial-a-fix
>
> Use its options to fix:
> - Windows Installer
> - Windows Update
> - All the Registration Center options.
>
> Turn off the "Empty System32\Catroot 2"
> Do NOT do "Flush SoftwareDistribution".
>
> Then click "GO" and wait until it is done...
> Reboot will be needed.
>
> - Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ and scan for/install
> updates.
> Come back and let us know if there is any difference.

My apologies - I missed an obvious possibility - I am coming back now
to correct it. I think you should also scan for malware/spyware/adware
to ensure there is not some installed on your computer and causing issues.

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.

Please do come back with the results of all the suggestions!

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

1. Uninstall IE8 Beta & reboot twice.

2. Uninstall WinXP SP3 Beta v20080212 121911 via Add/Remove Programs &
reboot twice.

3. Install WinXP SP3 Final Release:

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldron...tallation.aspx

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support is available for
Windows XP, but only for Service Pack 3 (SP3) and *only until* 14 Apr-09.
Go to http://support.microsoft.com/oas/def...spx?gprid=1173 | select
"Windows XP" then select "Windows XP Service Pack 3"

4. Check in at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and install *all* critical
security updates offered.

If you run into any problems, backup your personal data, format & reinstall
WinXP.
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
AumHa VSOP & Admin http://aumha.net
DTS-L http://dts-l.net/


Baalik wrote:
> Hello,
> recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for more than
> half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212 121911) installing
> on
> my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
> I've tried many solutions like:
> -reinstall WUA
> -register wups2.dll
> -rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
> -reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta
>
> Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and Automatic
> updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU history were about
> April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU history disappeared.
>
> Any help would be appreciated.
> Thanks in advance

>So - do you need updates now?

Well, I'd like to receive these updates, as there are some critical updates
added recently...

>If so - are you saying that even if you go to
>http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan, it tells
>you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority and/or optional
>software)?
>What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet Explorer 8 and
>revert back to a supported/current version of Internet Explorer?

Yes, custom/express install, still 0 new updates (well, some optional
drivers, but no SW updates).
After reverting to IE7, the problem persists.

>What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show Updates"
>checked) as far as the updates usually found near the bottom of the list?
>What is the last installed date (Windows XP - Software Updates title,
>followed by many updates - should see about 8 or so from November 2008
>through today.)

13.02.08

>If you see none...
>Try to update again (go to the web page, custom scan for updates.)
>Then open the Windows Update log and copy the last 50
>lines or so and post them in response to this conversation...
>Copy the last 50 lines or so, paste them here.

2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 2792 548 COMAPI -------------
2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 2792 548 COMAPI -- START -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 2792 548 COMAPI ---------
2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 1828 85c Agent ** START ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:18:312 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:31:18:328 1828 85c Agent * Online = Yes; Ignore download
priority = No
2009-01-25 20:31:18:328 1828 85c Agent * Criteria = "IsInstalled=0 and
IsHidden=0"
2009-01-25 20:31:18:328 2792 548 COMAPI <<-- SUBMITTED -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:18:328 1828 85c Agent * ServiceID =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}
2009-01-25 20:31:18:328 1828 85c Agent * Search Scope = {Machine}
2009-01-25 20:31:18:343 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv3wuredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:18:359 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:18:421 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\9482F4B4-E343-43B6-B170-9A65BC822C77\muv3wuredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:18:421 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:18:437 1828 85c Agent Checking for updated auth cab for
service 7971f918-a847-4430-

9279-4a52d1efe18d at
http://update.microsoft.com/v8/micro...dir/MUAuth.cab
2009-01-25 20:31:18:437 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\AuthCabs\authcab.c ab:
2009-01-25 20:31:18:437 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:18:671 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\AuthCabs\authcab.c ab:
2009-01-25 20:31:18:671 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:24:593 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv3muredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:24:593 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:24:656 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv3muredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:24:656 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:24:656 1828 85c PT +++++++++++ PT: Synchronizing server
updates +++++++++++
2009-01-25 20:31:24:656 1828 85c PT + ServiceId =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}, Server

URL = https://update.microsoft.com/v6/Clie...ce/client.asmx
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver DriverUtil marking
{0CE88923-57A9-4ACF-9460-BD5F8733C2DE}.100

e_detectionStateInstallable
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Matched driver to device

PCI\VEN_10EC&DEV_8169&SUBSYS_10A61043&REV_10
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Status: 0x180200a, ProblemNumber:
00000000
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Calculated driver attributes as
0x00000000
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver DriverUtil marking
{23A93C88-E73E-4327-AF2B-3B66D7FD7FA3}.100

e_detectionStateInstallable
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Matched driver to device ACPI\ATK0100
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Status: 0x180000a, ProblemNumber:
00000000
2009-01-25 20:31:34:906 1828 85c Driver Calculated driver attributes as
0x00000000
2009-01-25 20:31:49:953 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv3muredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:49:953 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:50:015 1828 85c Misc Validating signature for

C:\WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\WuRedir\7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D\muv3muredir.cab:
2009-01-25 20:31:50:015 1828 85c Misc Microsoft signed: Yes
2009-01-25 20:31:50:015 1828 85c PT +++++++++++ PT: Synchronizing extended
update info +++++++++++
2009-01-25 20:31:50:015 1828 85c PT + ServiceId =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}, Server

URL = https://update.microsoft.com/v6/Clie...ce/client.asmx
2009-01-25 20:31:54:984 1828 520 AU Triggering Offline detection
(non-interactive)
2009-01-25 20:31:54:984 1828 520 AU #############
2009-01-25 20:31:54:984 1828 520 AU ## START ## AU: Search for updates
2009-01-25 20:31:54:984 1828 520 AU #########
2009-01-25 20:31:54:984 1828 520 AU <<## SUBMITTED ## AU: Search for updates
[CallId = {4026FDE9-

5FB8-48E4-86AD-5A4E44537FD0}]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent * Added update
{23A93C88-E73E-4327-AF2B-3B66D7FD7FA3}.100 to

search result
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent Update
{DFED1488-A8DB-44A6-B403-BC92696D9CE6}.102 is pruned out

due to potential supersedence
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent Update
{86257641-3137-4584-A786-873E2EFF9AFB}.100 is pruned out

due to potential supersedence
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent Update
{21BCAD0E-37DF-4D5F-B806-48841D2D149A}.100 is pruned out

due to potential supersedence
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent * Added update
{5F569A2D-C253-4690-B7DD-416BEFE23A20}.100 to

search result
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent * Added update
{0CE88923-57A9-4ACF-9460-BD5F8733C2DE}.100 to

search result
2009-01-25 20:31:55:000 1828 85c Agent * Found 3 updates and 47 categories
in search; evaluated appl.

rules of 668 out of 1035 deployed entities
2009-01-25 20:31:55:031 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:31:55:031 1828 85c Agent ** END ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:031 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent ** START ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = AutomaticUpdates]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent * Online = No; Ignore download
priority = No
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent * Criteria = "IsHidden=0 and
IsInstalled=0 and

DeploymentAction='Installation' and IsAssigned=1 or IsHidden=0 and
IsPresent=1 and DeploymentAction='Uninstallation' and

IsAssigned=1 or IsHidden=0 and IsInstalled=1 and
DeploymentAction='Installation' and IsAssigned=1 and RebootRequired=1 or

IsHidden=0 and IsInstalled=0 and DeploymentAction='Uninstallation' and
IsAssigned=1 and RebootRequired=1"
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent * ServiceID =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}
2009-01-25 20:31:55:046 1828 85c Agent * Search Scope = {Machine}
2009-01-25 20:31:55:078 2792 da4 COMAPI >>-- RESUMED -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:078 2792 da4 COMAPI - Updates found = 3
2009-01-25 20:31:55:078 2792 da4 COMAPI ---------
2009-01-25 20:31:55:078 2792 da4 COMAPI -- END -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:078 2792 da4 COMAPI -------------
2009-01-25 20:31:55:093 2792 548 COMAPI -------------
2009-01-25 20:31:55:093 2792 548 COMAPI -- START -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:31:55:093 2792 548 COMAPI ---------
2009-01-25 20:31:55:109 2792 548 COMAPI <<-- SUBMITTED -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:32:09:671 1828 85c Agent * Found 0 updates and 47 categories
in search; evaluated appl.

rules of 380 out of 1035 deployed entities
2009-01-25 20:32:09:687 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:32:09:687 1828 85c Agent ** END ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = AutomaticUpdates]
2009-01-25 20:32:09:687 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent ** START ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU >>## RESUMED ## AU: Search for updates
[CallId = {4026FDE9-

5FB8-48E4-86AD-5A4E44537FD0}]
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU # 0 updates detected
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU #########
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU ## END ## AU: Search for updates
[CallId = {4026FDE9-5FB8-

48E4-86AD-5A4E44537FD0}]
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU #############
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 d5c AU Setting AU scheduled install time to
2009-01-26 12:00:00
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent * Online = No; Ignore download
priority = No
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent * Criteria = "IsInstalled = 0 and
IsHidden = 1"
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent * ServiceID =
{7971F918-A847-4430-9279-4A52D1EFE18D}
2009-01-25 20:32:09:703 1828 85c Agent * Search Scope = {Machine}
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver DriverUtil marking
{0CE88923-57A9-4ACF-9460-BD5F8733C2DE}.100

e_detectionStateInstallable
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Matched driver to device

PCI\VEN_10EC&DEV_8169&SUBSYS_10A61043&REV_10
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Status: 0x180200a, ProblemNumber:
00000000
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Calculated driver attributes as
0x00000000
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver DriverUtil marking
{23A93C88-E73E-4327-AF2B-3B66D7FD7FA3}.100

e_detectionStateInstallable
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Matched driver to device ACPI\ATK0100
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Status: 0x180000a, ProblemNumber:
00000000
2009-01-25 20:32:10:640 1828 85c Driver Calculated driver attributes as
0x00000000
2009-01-25 20:32:11:218 1828 85c Agent * Found 0 updates and 47 categories
in search; evaluated appl.

rules of 138 out of 1035 deployed entities
2009-01-25 20:32:11:234 1828 85c Agent *********
2009-01-25 20:32:11:234 1828 85c Agent ** END ** Agent: Finding updates
[CallerId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:32:11:234 1828 85c Agent *************
2009-01-25 20:32:11:234 1828 85c Report REPORT EVENT:
{B4C9B95E-1C20-4A7D-81FC-208C6C8D15BF} 2009-01-

25
20:31:55:031+0100 1 147 101 {00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000} 0 0 MicrosoftUpdate

Success Software Synchronization Windows Update Client successfully detected
3 updates.
2009-01-25 20:32:11:250 2792 da4 COMAPI >>-- RESUMED -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:32:11:250 2792 da4 COMAPI - Updates found = 0
2009-01-25 20:32:11:250 2792 da4 COMAPI ---------
2009-01-25 20:32:11:250 2792 da4 COMAPI -- END -- COMAPI: Search
[ClientId = MicrosoftUpdate]
2009-01-25 20:32:11:250 2792 da4 COMAPI -------------


>After you post it - try the following:
>Get Dial-a-Fix (download, save, install, run...):
>http://wiki.djlizard.net/Dial-a-fix
>Use its options to fix:
>- Windows Installer
>- Windows Update
>- All the Registration Center options.
>Turn off the "Empty System32\Catroot 2"
>Do NOT do "Flush SoftwareDistribution".
>Then click "GO" and wait until it is done...
>Reboot will be needed.
>- Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ and scan for/install updates.
>Come back and let us know if there is any difference.

Done, but nothing new, still 0 new updates in WU.

>My apologies - I missed an obvious possibility - I am coming back now
>to correct it. I think you should also scan for malware/spyware/adware
>to ensure there is not some installed on your computer and causing issues.
>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.

I'm using NOD32 and Netlimiter 2 as Antivirus and Firewall.
Time to time I run Lavasoft Ad-Aware.
Do I need to run these scans? I'm certain of not having any virus, spyware
etc.

Thank for help.>

[You won't be offered any updates as long as you have a WinXP SP3 beta build
installed.]

Baalik wrote:
>> So - do you need updates now?
>
> Well, I'd like to receive these updates, as there are some critical
> updates
> added recently...
>
>> If so - are you saying that even if you go to
>> http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan, it
>> tells
>> you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority and/or optional
>> software)?
>> What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet Explorer 8
>> and revert back to a supported/current version of Internet Explorer?
>
> Yes, custom/express install, still 0 new updates (well, some optional
> drivers, but no SW updates).
> After reverting to IE7, the problem persists.
>
>> What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show Updates"
>> checked) as far as the updates usually found near the bottom of the list?
>> What is the last installed date (Windows XP - Software Updates title,
>> followed by many updates - should see about 8 or so from November 2008
>> through today.)
>
> 13.02.08

Baalik wrote:
> recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for
> more than half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212
> 121911) installing on my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
> I've tried many solutions like:
> -reinstall WUA
> -register wups2.dll
> -rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
> -reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta
>
> Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and
> Automatic updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU
> history were about April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU
> history disappeared.

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> So - do you need updates now?
>
> If so - are you saying that even if you go to
> http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan,
> it tells you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority
> and/or optional software)?
>
> What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet
> Explorer 8 and revert back to a supported/current version of
> Internet Explorer?
> What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show
> Updates" checked) as far as the updates usually found near the
> bottom of the list? What is the last installed date (Windows XP -
> Software Updates title, followed by many updates - should see about
> 8 or so from November 2008 through today.)
>
> If you see none...
>
> Try to update again (go to the web page, custom scan for updates.)
>
> Then open the Windows Update log and copy the last 50
> lines or so and post them in response to this conversation...
>
> To open the Windows Update Log file...
> Start button --> RUN --> type in:
> notepad %windir%\WindowsUpdate.log
> --> Click OK
>
> Copy the last 50 lines or so, paste them here.
>
> After you post it - try the following:
>
> Get Dial-a-Fix (download, save, install, run...):
> http://wiki.djlizard.net/Dial-a-fix
>
> Use its options to fix:
> - Windows Installer
> - Windows Update
> - All the Registration Center options.
>
> Turn off the "Empty System32\Catroot 2"
> Do NOT do "Flush SoftwareDistribution".
>
> Then click "GO" and wait until it is done...
> Reboot will be needed.
>
> - Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ and scan for/install
> updates.
> Come back and let us know if there is any difference.

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> My apologies - I missed an obvious possibility - I am coming back
> now to correct it. I think you should also scan for
> malware/spyware/adware to ensure there is not some installed
> on your computer and causing issues.
>
> 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.
>
> Please do come back with the results of all the suggestions!

Baalik wrote:
> Well, I'd like to receive these updates, as there are some critical
> updates
> added recently...
>
> Yes, custom/express install, still 0 new updates (well, some
> optional
> drivers, but no SW updates).
> After reverting to IE7, the problem persists.
>
> 13.02.08
>
> Done, but nothing new, still 0 new updates in WU.
>
> I'm using NOD32 and Netlimiter 2 as Antivirus and Firewall.
> Time to time I run Lavasoft Ad-Aware.
> Do I need to run these scans? I'm certain of not having any virus,
> spyware

*Certain*, eh? *very big grin*

Well - PA Bear caught something I did not - you have a beta build of Windows
XP SP3 installed - not the final build. You need to remove the Beta Build
of SP3 and install the final release. At this point you have shutdown your
own updates by using a pre-release of something that has been in full
release for almost 10 months.

I bet - if you unsinstall all the beta products (IE and SP3) and install the
final release of one of the (SP3) - you'll be fine...

After you uninstall SP3 beta - follow these tips to install the final
release of SP3:

A place to get FREE support for SP3 installation issues *from Microsoft*...
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/def...3&gprid=522131

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldron...tallation.aspx

Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950717

Suggestions:

1) Download the full SP3 installation file and/or burn the ISO download to
CD.
2) Ensure (as well as plausible) you have no spyware/malware by doing a full
scan with SuperAntiSpyware and MalwareBytes.
3) CHKDSK
4) Defragment
5) Ensure your hardware drivers are up to date (from the hardware
manufacturer's respective web pages.)
6) Reboot right before you try to install SP3.
7) Disconnect from the internet before installing (physically.)
8) Disable your antivirus and antispyware applications when you are about to
install SP3.

Some (if not all) of that is covered in the above links.

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

Thanks, this helped (Oh my god...).
After uninstalling SP3 beta, WU offered me SP3, so I agreed and everything
looks fine now. Thanks again for help.

"PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:

> [You won't be offered any updates as long as you have a WinXP SP3 beta build
> installed.]
>
> Baalik wrote:
> >> So - do you need updates now?
> >
> > Well, I'd like to receive these updates, as there are some critical
> > updates
> > added recently...
> >
> >> If so - are you saying that even if you go to
> >> http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan, it
> >> tells
> >> you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority and/or optional
> >> software)?
> >> What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet Explorer 8
> >> and revert back to a supported/current version of Internet Explorer?
> >
> > Yes, custom/express install, still 0 new updates (well, some optional
> > drivers, but no SW updates).
> > After reverting to IE7, the problem persists.
> >
> >> What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show Updates"
> >> checked) as far as the updates usually found near the bottom of the list?
> >> What is the last installed date (Windows XP - Software Updates title,
> >> followed by many updates - should see about 8 or so from November 2008
> >> through today.)
> >
> > 13.02.08
>
>

YW & thanks for your feedback. It would appear that you didn't see my first
reply to your thread:
http://groups.google.com/group/micro...7467c785d2dfe6

Baalik wrote:
> Thanks, this helped (Oh my god...).
> After uninstalling SP3 beta, WU offered me SP3, so I agreed and everything
> looks fine now. Thanks again for help.
>
> "PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:
>
>> [You won't be offered any updates as long as you have a WinXP SP3 beta
>> build installed.]
>>
>> Baalik wrote:
>>>> So - do you need updates now?
>>>
>>> Well, I'd like to receive these updates, as there are some critical
>>> updates
>>> added recently...
>>>
>>>> If so - are you saying that even if you go to
>>>> http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and choose to do a custom scan, it
>>>> tells
>>>> you that you have no updates needed at all (high priority and/or
>>>> optional
>>>> software)?
>>>> What if you uninstall the beta (still incomplete) of Internet Explorer
>>>> 8
>>>> and revert back to a supported/current version of Internet Explorer?
>>>
>>> Yes, custom/express install, still 0 new updates (well, some optional
>>> drivers, but no SW updates).
>>> After reverting to IE7, the problem persists.
>>>
>>>> What's in your Add or Remove Programs Control Panel (with "Show
>>>> Updates"
>>>> checked) as far as the updates usually found near the bottom of the
>>>> list?
>>>> What is the last installed date (Windows XP - Software Updates title,
>>>> followed by many updates - should see about 8 or so from November 2008
>>>> through today.)
>>>
>>> 13.02.08

I sucessfully installed SP3 on my Windows XP on August 29,2008 and am
wondering if I need to reinstall a later version eventhough I am unaware of
encountering any problems.
--
Wardtwo a do-it-yourself learner


"PA Bear [MS MVP]" wrote:

> 1. Uninstall IE8 Beta & reboot twice.
>
> 2. Uninstall WinXP SP3 Beta v20080212 121911 via Add/Remove Programs &
> reboot twice.
>
> 3. Install WinXP SP3 Final Release:
>
> WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
> http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldron...tallation.aspx
>
> Free unlimited installation and compatibility support is available for
> Windows XP, but only for Service Pack 3 (SP3) and *only until* 14 Apr-09.
> Go to http://support.microsoft.com/oas/def...spx?gprid=1173 | select
> "Windows XP" then select "Windows XP Service Pack 3"
>
> 4. Check in at http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com and install *all* critical
> security updates offered.
>
> If you run into any problems, backup your personal data, format & reinstall
> WinXP.
> --
> ~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
> MS MVP-IE, Mail, Security, Windows Desktop Experience - since 2002
> AumHa VSOP & Admin http://aumha.net
> DTS-L http://dts-l.net/
>
>
> Baalik wrote:
> > Hello,
> > recently I discovered a strange problem. WU haven't updated for more than
> > half year. I think the problem came with SP3(v20080212 121911) installing
> > on
> > my WXP Pro with built-in SP2.
> > I've tried many solutions like:
> > -reinstall WUA
> > -register wups2.dll
> > -rename WINDOWS\SoftwareDistribution\ folder
> > -reinstall ActiveX component in IE 8 beta
> >
> > Nothing helped. I can still install updates manually, but WU and Automatic
> > updates always says 0 new updates. Last updates in WU history were about
> > April/08, but after trying solutions above, WU history disappeared.
> >
> > Any help would be appreciated.
> > Thanks in advance
>
>