XP will not install updates-Udate.inf/Cryptographic service error

[jon]

XP will not install updates. I get the error message-Setup
could not verify the integrity of the file Update.inf. Make
sure the Cryptographic service is running on this
computer.-Cryptographic service is running. I tried
deleting CATROOT2 folder in the System 32 file. Didn't
help. Don't know if it's connected-but it started at the
same time-IE will also not go to pages that require
cookies-I can't log on to MSN explorer 7-tried to reset the
cookie accepting levels in IE-didn't help. It also takes
over an hour to get the desktop up to do anything. I've
freed up hard drive space-run several antivirus-several
anti-spyware-nothing helps. And since I can't install
updates I can't install the patch to block the Blaster
worm. Please HELP ME! The life you save may be my Vaio's.

 

[Jerrel]

I am having the same problem! Have you found any
solutions?

Jerrel

 

[SAZ]

Jon, Jerrel, and Guy-

I am working with someone who is having the same problem
on a Compaq. Agreed, no help in MS TechNet or in Compaq
KnowledgeBase. Have noticed client has not updated BIOS
ever. Have you gents kept the BIOS on your machines up-
to-date?

Trying to find a pattern in this mess.

Will post anything I find regarding this issue.