Microsoft provides updates for all their operating systems including Windows XP. Due to varying reasons, the computer may fail to start automatic update service or fail to download the updates at all. The problem may be connected to several factors including your Internet connection, problems with your computer or issues with the Microsoft server.
Instructions
- 1
Ensure that the Windows automatic update service is enabled in your computer. Click "Start," right-click "My Computer," "Properties" and "Automatic Updates." Select "Automatic (Recommended)" and choose the date you want the computer to install updates. Select "Apply" and then "Ok."
2Check your Internet connection. If you are not connected to the Internet, the computer will not be able to detect automatic updates from the Microsoft server. Turn off the modem for at least one minute to give it time to renew the connection, and then turn off the computer. Turn the modem and computer back on. Refer to the Resources section for more detailed instructions on how to troubleshoot your Internet connection in Windows XP.
3Run a computer scan to make sure that a virus or malware is not preventing the computer from installing the updates. An infected computer may fail to download the automatic updates.
4Review your Windows update history. Click "Start," "All Programs," "Windows Update" or "Microsoft Update." Wait for the browser to open the Windows update page. Click "Review your update history" and wait for another window to open your most recent updates including those that the computer failed to install. Note that it is possible that the computer was able to detect the automatic updates but failed to install them.
5Check the status of your most recent updates. If the item has a red "X" sign beside it, click the sign to reveal the installation error code and then copy it. Click the "Find Solutions" button. Enter the installation error code in the "type keywords here" box and click "Search." The search should give you a list of links that contain troubleshooting tips. Follow these tips to troubleshoot the problem.
