Update stopped updating (can't install anything)

[Fuzz]

I've been setting up a new OS install over the last few days, not really downloaded anything odd that I think might cause this but windows update is now failing to install ANYTHING I choose.
I've done all the high priority stuff and tried moving onto optional hardware ones, an ATI driver, a dell 2407 driver and a HD audio codec.
All failed..
Thought it was an issue with the update service to start with so left it

Tonight I try and install MSN / live messenger and now that fails in the same way, downloads the file then fails the execution of install.

Went back to windows update to see if it was something like .NET framework needed (version 2.00) and that fails to install too. WTF is going on!



Oh and nothing is being blocked by a firewall / av / other filtering thing as I have turned off the firewall and have yet to install any security.

Downloaded exe programs / games (like Eve online for eg ) separate from auto install type sites, download and install absolutely fine..

 

[EVILCOSMOS]

Try restarting the windows update service. Instructions for XP from microsoft website below:

1. Stop the Automatic Updates service. To do this, follow these steps:
a. Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then click OK.
b. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER:

net stop wuauserv

2. Register the Wups2.dll file. To do this, follow these steps:
a. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER:

regsvr32 %windir%\system32\wups2.dll

Note For a computer that is running Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, type the following command, and then press ENTER:

regsvr32 %windir%\syswow64\wups2.dll

b. Click OK on each verification message that you receive.
3. Start the Automatic Updates service. To do this, type the following command at the command prompt, and then press ENTER:

net start wuauserv

4. Exit the command prompt. To do this type exit, and then press ENTER.

 

[Fuzz]

Too late, pc gone **** up and crashed...

More work and a fresh install required.