quy nguyen wrote:
> I tried to update my windows XP (sp2). After running update
> there was a list of 84 updates need to done. When I clicked
> on updates, It started download updates files. However,
> after the download is completed it pop up the windows said
> that the update can not completely installed. How do I get
> my computer updated. Thank you very much for any
> suggestions.

Shenan Stanley wrote:
> Search and Search before asking...
>
> Updates are not installed successfully from Windows Update,
> from Microsoft Update, or by using Automatic Updates after
> you repair a Windows XP installation
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/943144
>
> Can't figure that out?
>
> Get Dial-a-Fix:
> 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.
> - Download/Install Windows Update v3.
>
> http://download.windowsupdate.com/Wi...gent30-x86.exe
> (You *may* need to install it using the command line switch
> "/wuforce" right after the reboot - immediately after logging in.)
>
> - Download/Install the 927891 patch.
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/d...9-404327772E5A
>
> - Reboot.
>
> - Visit http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com/ and scan for/install
> updates.
> - Come back and let us know how things went!

Xandros wrote:
> Shenan you generally give good help but why are you suggesting that
> the OP "Search and Search before asking" ?

Without a doubt. I usually give more - expanding on how to search, etc. I
was a bit sparse in this response. However - the advice is still solid and
I stand behind it. Anyone coming here to ask questions *should* search on
their own before asking. It is phenomenal just how many questions are
repeated (and thus the answers are repeated) daily. And it is not like I am
suggesting someone build a rocket from parts found in their home - I am
merely suggesting they learn to search for answers on their own. While
there is nothing wrong with asking if you cannot find it - it is certainly
more rewarding for someone if they can not only get the answer they seek -
but say they now know better how to find such answers.

Example - using this very conversation (or the original posting part
anyway...) The original poster knows they have Windows XP (obviously) and
they know what is happening. Using the phrasing from nothing more than the
subject line and the operating system - I can compose a Google Search...

"Windows XP" updates are not installed
http://www.google.com/search?q=%22Wi...+not+installed

The third hit (when I just did the search) is a Microsoft article. In
fact - it is the Microsoft article I referenced above and that - according
to the OP, who was kind enough to come back and let us know the results of
the advice - is what solved the issue here.

Again - I am not saying that someone shouldn't *ask* their questions. Ask
away. I am just going to continue giving the advice that they should try
searching for the answer on their own a little before they do. It will
benefit them and if they still have to ask - it will benefit us - in that
during their unsuccessful search - they have likely learned a better way to
phrase what it is they are asking for - making it easier for those answering
to do so correctly and promptly.

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