Can't change Automatic Updates

[Randy Harris]

I have several systems running XP pro that won't let me change the settings
for Automatic Update. I logged in as local administrator but all of the
settings on the Automatic Updates dialog are grayed out. What would cause
that and is there some way to override it?

 

[Guest]

Enable Automatic Updates service (right-click My Computer -> Manage ->
Services).

 

[Randy Harris]

Enable Automatic Updates service (right-click My Computer -> Manage ->
Services).

Thanks, but the service is already running.

 

[R. McCarty]

If using XP Professional, perhaps a Group Policy is in force to disable
the applet control.

 

[Randy Harris]

If using XP Professional, perhaps a Group Policy is in force to disable
the applet control.

I thought that might be the case, but what policy could do that? I haven't
been able to find one.

 

[Torgeir Bakken \(MVP\)]

I have several systems running XP pro that won't let me change the settings
for Automatic Update. I logged in as local administrator but all of the
settings on the Automatic Updates dialog are grayed out. What would cause
that and is there some way to override it?

Hi

See if this helps:

Windows Update Greyed Out - Restore (Line 179)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

 

[R. McCarty]

Local Computer Policy
->Computer Configuration
->Administrative Templates
->Windows Components
->Windows Update

 

[Randy Harris]

Hi

See if this helps:

Windows Update Greyed Out - Restore (Line 179)
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

That sure did help. Thanks Torgier, Kelly and others that replied.

 

[Guest]

I am having the exact same problem. I used the regfile at
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm. It worked, but after I
rebooted my PC the Automatic Updates tab was greyed out again.

Anyone know how to fix it?

Thanks,
Adam

 

[Torgeir Bakken \(MVP\)]

I am having the exact same problem. I used the regfile at
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm. It worked, but after I
rebooted my PC the Automatic Updates tab was greyed out again.

Anyone know how to fix it?

Hi

I would think some malware does this. See if any tools mentioned
in the links below finds anything.

The Parasite Fight Quick Fix Protocol
http://aumha.org/a/quickfix.htm

Dealing with Unwanted Spyware and Parasites
http://www.mvps.org/winhelp2002/unwanted.htm


Also be sure that you have an up to date virus scanner running.

 

[Guest]

I dont think it is spyware. I ran ad-aware, spybot, and scanned for viruses.
I've been reading about this problem all freaking day on Google. I havent
found anything that works yet. Im thinking restoring an image is the only
way im going to fix this. I really dont want to re-image my machine for
something so small.

 

[Guest]

I figured it out. I have a program called 'Deep Freeze' installed on my PC.
I have my PC in the 'thaw' state. Usually in the 'thaw' state users are
allowed to make any changes they wish, but apparently 'Deep Freeze' disables
'Automatic Updates' altogether.

Thanks for all of your help,
Adam