Windows Update Failing

[shaggyhair]

When I try to start windows update it runs for a few seconds and then a box pops up with the following.

Restart your computer to install important updates.
Windows can’t update important files and services while the system is using them. Save any open files and restart you computer and then try to check for new updates.

I have restarted my computer many times but the same pop up comes up when I try to download updates.

I have downloaded and run the following Microsoft troubleshooting files to no avail.

MicrosoftFixit50123 and WindowsUpdateDiagnostic

Any thoughts on a way forward please?

[jojo]

Try installing in Safe mode with networking.


Addition. I'm assuming you're using Vista or higher. XP doesn't need M$ updates and chances are, any offered won't have very nice results.

[shaggyhair]

Sorry - I should have said, Windows 7, 64 bit, Home P.

[jojo]

That's fine.

If you'd said XP I'd be strongly suggesting you don't seek or accept any updates.

Incidentally, if you have trouble accessing Safe Mode, try f5.

Good luck

[johnnybee]

At the risk of being labelled a luddite, I'd say 'don't bother' with updates, Shaggy - turn 'em off in Comp Management>services, and the same for Security Center(re) - you don't need 'em.
From bitter experience they cause more problems than they solve, and by giving MS virtually free access to your system you're effectively giving the spottyfaced dweebs the chance to look at everything on it.
Security starts and ends at your keyboard and mouse, so please don't get sucked into agreeing to ANYTHING.
Remember, not everyone who seems friendly is your friend, and not everyone who sh*ts on your head is your enemy!

[jojo]

Agree wit johnnybee frankly.

The claim that they are updating security is a nonsense. The best way to improve security is to turn off networking.