Installing Windows XP SP2

[alc]

My computer automatically tries to update my computer and every time it tries
to install the XP SP2 half way through the installation and error message
comes up saying access denied and cancels updating. What do I do to resolve
this issue?

 

[Ron Badour]

You can get free email help from Microsoft on update issues:
http://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?LN=en-us&gprid=6527&x=14&y=15
I've used it and the technician nailed the cause of my problem immediately.
Whenever you get an error notice, it is important to identify what
specifically is going on (if you can) when the notice is received and
provide the complete notice verbatim.


--
Regards

Ron Badour
MS MVP
Windows Desktop Experience

 

[Muzafar Ganie]

Hi alc,

Check the article

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/873148

muzafar

 

[Maurice N ~ MVP]

I'm slightly curious as to why SP2 is being offered or downloaded in lieu of SP3.

If you have not already done so, I'd suggest you first try deleting temp files, logging off and restarting the system fresh, and try again.
Housekeeping and cleanup steps:
Bring up Windows Explorer / Tools / Folder Options/ select VIEW Tab and look at all of settings listed.

"CHECK" (turn on) Display the contents of system folders.

Under column, Hidden files and folders----choose ( *select* ) Show hidden files and folders.
Next, un-check Hide extensions for known file types.
Next un-check Hide protected operating system files.

Use Windows Explorer. Go to C:\Windows\System32

If you have a sub-folder called * Catroot2 * (not Catroot) rename the
folder to CR2OLD. Or delete everything in that folder. Just make sure you do the right one.

(to clean up downloaded files for Automatic updates / Windows Update)
From main Windows Start menu, select RUN, type in
CMD <Enter-key>

type in
net stop wuauserv <Enter-key>

Go to Windows Explorer.
Look on your system drive (usually C ) and look at the Windows folder name. Like Windows or WINNT.
Modify following as appropriate.
If your Windows folder is C:\Windows. Look at this folder
C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download

If you find files in there, delete them. That folder is where files are stored from W U downloads.
Then, make very sure to turn off (temporarily) your antivirus program and any anti-malware program before getting Service Pack 3.
Then, logoff and restart Windows and try again.

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

How to troubleshoot an unsuccessful installation of Windows XP Service Pack 3
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/950718/