Automatic Updates and Internet Security

[Zoe]

1. In control panel/system properties/automatic updates
it says that the 'windows update service is unavailable'
2. Internet options/Security - the button to 'custom
level' is not highlighted and therefore I cannot amend
settings.
3. My norton antivirus has become corrupt and even when I
reinstall it will not run.
Am I just riddled with nightmare viruses?!
Thank you for any help you can offer!

 

[Lilla]

1. In control panel/system properties/automatic updates
it says that the 'windows update service is unavailable'

it will say this if you have disabled the 'Automatic Updates Service'
the default setting is Automatic / Enabled

Many people (including me) disable this service, and get the updates
manually.
Automatic Updates Service is not suitable for dial-up ISP users.

Hope this helps,
Lilla

2. Internet options/Security - the button to 'custom
level' is not highlighted and therefore I cannot amend
settings.

3. My norton antivirus has become corrupt and even when I
reinstall it will not run.

While you are sorting this out make sure you have a firewall enabled.
Windows XP Firewall (ICF) is available.