windows vista updates

Windows Vista: How to update your operating system

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 11:01:52 -0400

Windows Vista: How to update your operating system

Windows Vista can download and install important security and other recommended updates automatically, on a schedule that you set.

To have Windows install important updates as they become available, turn on automatic updating.

To turn on Windows automatic updating:

1.	Click the Start button, point to All Programs, and then click Windows Update.
2.	In the left pane, click Change settings.
3.	Select Install updates automatically (recommended).
4.	Under Recommended updates, select the Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying me about updates check box, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Understanding Windows automatic updating

Here are answers to some common questions about updating Windows automatically.

Why update Windows automatically?

Because with automatic updating, you don't have to search for updates online or worry that critical fixes for Windows might be missing from your computer. Windows automatically checks for the latest updates for your computer. Depending on the Windows Update settings you choose, Windows can install updates automatically or just let you know they're available. For more information, see Turn automatic updating on or off.

How do I start updating Windows automatically?

If you haven't already, just turn on automatic updating. For more information, see Turn automatic updating on or off.

How much does it cost to update Windows automatically?

There is no charge to you for the Windows Update service. However, depending on how you are billed for your Internet connection, standard local and long distance phone charges and Internet service charges might apply for the time required to download an update.

How long does it take to download an update?

It depends on the type of Internet connection you have and the size and number of updates your computer needs. However, updates are automatically downloaded behind the scenes when you're online. They do not interfere with other downloads, and if you disconnect they will continue to download in the background the next time you go online.

How does Windows determine which updates my computer needs?

Windows Update contains software tools that detect information about your computer, such as the make and model and the version of Windows and other Microsoft software that your computer is running. Microsoft uses that information to install only the updates your computer needs. For more information, read the Windows Update privacy statement online.

If I choose to update Windows automatically, do I still need to visit the Windows Update website?

No. Windows will automatically install updates for your computer as they become available. Also, for this version of Windows, the website has been replaced by Windows Update in Control Panel. If you want to check for updates manually, follow these steps:

1.	Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button , clicking All Programs, and then clicking Windows Update.
2.	In the left pane, click Check for updates.

To find out how to get updates for Windows and your other Microsoft programs such as Microsoft Office, go to the Microsoft Update website. If you're already using Microsoft Update to get updates for your computer, Windows Update in Control Panel will automatically open and display your update status.

When are updates downloaded?

Updates are downloaded behind the scenes when you're online. They do not interfere with other downloads. If you disconnect from the Internet before an update is fully downloaded, the download process will continue the next time you're online.

When are updates installed?

It depends on the automatic updating option you choose. If you choose the recommended option, updates are installed at 3:00 A.M. or on a schedule that you choose. If you turn off your computer before the scheduled time, you can install updates before shutting down.

If your computer is in one of the power-saving states (Sleep or Hibernate) during a scheduled update, and if your computer is plugged in to a power source, Windows will wake your computer long enough to install new updates. If your computer is running on battery power, however, Windows will not install updates. Windows will try to install them instead at the next scheduled installation time. To schedule when Windows automatically installs updates:

1.	Open Windows Update by clicking the Start button , clicking All Programs, and then clicking Windows Update.
2.	In the left pane, click Change settings, and then make sure that the Install updates automatically (recommended) option is selected.
3.	Choose the frequency and time of day when you want new updates to be installed, and then click OK. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Can I see which updates Windows has automatically installed?

Yes. View the history in Windows Update in Control Panel, or go to Installed Updates:

•	Open Installed Updates by clicking the Start button , clicking Control Panel, clicking Programs, and then, under Programs and Features, clicking View installed updates.

Can I choose which updates Windows automatically installs?

Yes. You can choose to install important updates only, or important and recommended updates. Optional updates are not installed automatically. Instead, you can choose to install them by reviewing available updates when you check for updates using Windows Update in Control Panel. For more information, see Turn automatic updating on or off and Change how Windows installs or notifies you about updates.

Will I be notified if there's a problem and important updates have not been installed?

Yes. Windows Update will notify you if security and other important updates cannot be installed. For more information, see Troubleshoot problems with installing updates.

Update

Additions to software that can prevent or fix problems, enhance the security of a computer, or improve a computer's performance.

March 2007 Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 10:55:12 -0400

March 2007 Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update

INTRODUCTION

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The March 2007 Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update is a package of software updates that address common application compatibility issues in Windows Vista. When you try to install and run certain legacy games or applications in Windows Vista, you may experience one or more of the following symptoms:

•	The game, the application, or the firmware may not be installed correctly.
•	The game, the application, or the firmware may cause system instability.
•	The primary functions of the game, the application, or the firmware may not work correctly.

This update is cumulative and supersedes update 929427. In addition to the fixes that are contained in update 929427, this update improves support in Windows Vista for the following games, applications, and firmware:

•	Lenovo Presentation Director 1.0.0.1
•	ACDSee 8
•	Trend Micro Internet Security 2006 (PC-cillin) 14.0 – 14.59
•	Trend Micro Internet Security 2007 (PC-cillin) 15.0 – 15.19
•	Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1) Administration Tools Pack
•	RealNetworks RealPlayer 6.0.12
•	AOL Safety and Security Center 2.5.4.1
•	Toshiba Tecra M7 1.70

This update also includes fixes that are contained in update 929427. These fixes improve support in Windows Vista for the following applications:

•	IBM Rescue and Recovery with Rapid Restore 3.00
•	Rosetta Stone 2.1.3
•	Microsoft Encarta Standard 2007
•	Family Feud Online Party
•	Crystal Player Professional 1.97
•	Adobe Photoshop 7.0.1
•	Total Commander 6.55
•	Sony FeliCa Port (PaSoRi) 3.0.0.0
•	Label Mighty 6
•	AVG Anti-Spyware 7.5.0.47
•	LEGO Star Wars
•	HD Tach 3
•	Adobe Photoshop Elements Version 4.0
•	Digital Zenkoku Map Townpage Database 7
•	Auslogics Disk Defrag 1.0.3
•	EasyRecovery Professional Version 6.04
•	Microsoft Money 2005
•	Microsoft Money 2006
•	SmartInstall 2.16
•	Adobe Creative Suite CS2
•	Jv16 Power Tools
•	SG TCP Optimizer 2.0.3
•	CyberLink PowerCinema 4.0
•	Google Desktop 4.2006.1008
•	Roxio Easy Media Creator 7.5
•	Adobe Premiere Elements 3
•	Battlefield 2 Deluxe
•	Opera 9.02
•	Palm Desktop 6.0
•	Microsoft Digital Image Suite 2006
•	Microsoft Flight Simulator X
•	IBM SmartSuite Millennium Edition - Freelance Graphics 9.8
•	LimeWire 4.12
•	Calyx Point 5.3
•	Bitvise Tunnelier 4.20
•	Sun Microsystems Java Control Panel
•	Azureus 1.0
•	HD Tune 2.5.1
•	BeatJam 2006 SE
•	Justsystems Ichitaro 2006
•	Adobe Photoshop CS 8.0
•	ArcSoft PhotoImpression 5
•	Sun Microsystems J2SE Runtime Environment 5.0 Update 9
•	AOL 9.0 - x64
•	Microsoft DevStudio 9.0
•	The Weather Channel Desktop 5.0.1
•	Absolute Poker Version 5.7
•	BitLord 1.1.5.6
•	SpeedFan 4.31
•	Delphi 7 Professional
•	TweakNow PowerPack 2006
•	Microsoft Office 2003 Web Folders
•	Microsoft Office Outlook 2003
•	Ulead DVD MovieFactory 5 Plus
•	Virtual CD 8
•	Macromedia Fireworks MX2004 7.0.2.295
•	Doranet Kids Nyugaku Jyunbi Taikenban
•	Doranet Shogaku Ichinensei Taikenban
•	Minna de TV Denwa Starter
•	Power Utility - Remote administration 3.1.0.0
•	MotionDV STUDIO 5.8J for FUJITSU
•	Softex OmniPass 1.0.0.1
•	Minna de TV Phone Starter 2.1.0.1
•	Macromedia ColdFusion MX 7 Enterprise Edition
•	Microsoft Age of Empires III
•	Microsoft Age of Empires III : The WarChiefs Expansion Pack
•	Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2
•	Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: African Adventure Expansion Pack
•	Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Endangered Species Expansion Pack
•	Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Marine Mania Expansion Pack
•	Microsoft Zoo Tycoon 2: Zookeeper Collection Expansion Pack
•	Microsoft Rise of Nations: Rise of Legends
•	Microsoft Fable: The Lost Chapters
•	Microsoft Dungeon Siege II
•	Microsoft Dungeon Siege: Legends of Aranna

For more information about the latest service pack for Windows Vista, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

935791 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/935791/) How to obtain the latest Windows Vista service pack

MORE INFORMATIONloadTOCNode(1, 'moreinformation');

To install the Windows Vista Application Compatibility Update, visit the following Microsoft Web site:

http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com (http://windowsupdate.microsoft.com)

Note After you install this update, a CD device or a DVD device may not work correctly. If you select the device in Device Manager and then view the properties for the device, you may receive the following error message:

The software for this device has been blocked from starting because it is known to have problems with Windows. Contact the hardware vendor for a new driver. (Code 48)

This problem occurs because a legacy application may install drivers that are incompatible with Windows Vista.

For more information about how to work around this problem, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

314060 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314060/) You can no longer access the CD drive or the DVD drive, or you receive an error message after you remove a CD recording program or a DVD recording program in Windows XP: "error code 31"

Update informationloadTOCNode(2, 'moreinformation');The following files are available for download from the Microsoft Download Center:

Download the Update for Windows Vista (KB932246) package now. (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=E529EEAA-10F2-44FD-BAE1-89F395E71277)

Download the Update for Windows Vista for x64-based Systems (KB932246) package now. (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=B7DD30FE-C928-4FC8-B635-1EDE761296EE)

Release Date: March 13, 2007

For more information about how to download Microsoft support files, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

119591 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/119591/) How to obtain Microsoft support files from online services

Microsoft scanned this file for viruses. Microsoft used the most current virus-detection software that was available on the date that the file was posted. The file is stored on security-enhanced servers that help prevent any unauthorized changes to the file.

The third-party products that this article discusses are manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, about the performance or reliability of these products.

APPLIES TO

•	Windows Vista Ultimate
•	Windows Vista Starter
•	Windows Vista Home Premium
•	Windows Vista Home Basic
•	Windows Vista Enterprise
•	Windows Vista Business
•	Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition
•	Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition
•	Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition
•	Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition

Tips for fixing common driver problems

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:03:44 -0400

Tips for fixing common driver problems

Applies to all editions of Windows Vista.

When hardware installed in or attached to a computer doesn't work properly, it is often because of a driver problem.

Here are some common problems with drivers, and ways to solve them.

A driver is a small software program that allows a hardware device to communicate with a computer.

Optimize Windows Vista

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 07:55:00 -0400

Optimize Windows Vista for better performance

Applies to all editions of Windows Vista.

No matter how fast or shiny computers might be when they are new, they all seem to get slower over time. That state-of-the-art PC you bought last year might not feel like such a screamer after you install a dozen programs, load it with antispyware and antivirus tools, and download untold amounts of junk from the Internet. The slowdown might happen so gradually you hardly notice it, until one day you’re trying to open a program or file and wonder, "What happened to my poor PC?" Whatever the cause, there are a lot of ways to help speed up Windows and make your PC work better—even without upgrading your hardware. Here are some tips to help you optimize Windows Vista for faster performance.

Delete programs you never use

Many PC manufacturers pack their new computers with programs you didn’t order and might not want. These often include trial editions and limited edition versions of programs that software companies hope you will try, find useful, and then pay to upgrade to full versions or newer versions. If you decide you don’t want them, keeping the software on your computer might slow it down by using precious memory, disk space, and processing power. It’s a good idea to uninstall all the programs you don’t plan to use. This should include both manufacturer-installed software and software you installed yourself but don’t want anymore—especially utility programs designed to help manage and tune your computer’s hardware and software. Utility programs such as virus scanners, disk cleaners, and backup tools often run automatically at startup, quietly chugging along in the background where you can’t see them. Many people have no idea they are even running.

Even if your PC is older, it might contain manufacturer-installed programs that you never noticed or have since forgotten about. It’s never too late to remove these and get rid of the clutter and wasted system resources. Maybe you thought you might use the software someday, but never did.

Uninstall it and see if your PC runs faster. For instructions, see Uninstall or change a program. Limit how many programs load at startup Many programs are designed to load automatically when Windows starts. Software manufacturers often set their programs to open in the background, where you can’t see them running, so they’ll open right away when you click their icons. That's helpful for programs you use a lot, but for programs you rarely or never use, this wastes precious memory and slows down the time it takes Windows to finish loading.

Decide for yourself if you want a program to load at startup. But how can you tell what programs load automatically at startup? Sometimes this is obvious, because the program will add an icon to the notification area on the taskbar, where you can see it running. Look there and see if there are any programs running that you don’t want to load automatically. Position your mouse over each icon to see the program name. Be sure to click the Show hidden icons button so you don’t miss any icons.

see the program name. Be sure to click the Show hidden icons button so you don’t miss any icons.

The Show hidden icons button in the notification area

Even after you check the notification area, you might still have missed some programs that load automatically at startup. You can find and disable them using Windows Defender.

The Software Explorer screen in Windows Defender shows which programs automatically start when you launch Windows

If you’re unsure about whether a program should open automatically at startup, you can try disabling it, restarting your computer, and then using the program. If that causes any problems with the program, you can go back and re-enable it to start automatically.

For instructions how to use Windows Defender to check for programs that open automatically, see Stop a program from running automatically when Windows starts.

NoteSome people prefer to manage which programs load at startup using the System Configuration tool. For more information, see Start System Configuration.

Defragment your hard drive

Fragmentation makes your hard disk do extra work that can slow down your computer. Disk Defragmenter rearranges fragmented data so your hard disk can work more efficiently. Disk Defragmenter runs on a schedule, but you can also defragment your hard disk manually.

For more information, see Improve performance by defragmenting your hard disk.

Clean up your hard disk

If you want to reduce the number of unnecessary files on your hard disk to free up disk space and help your computer run faster, use Disk Cleanup. It removes temporary files, empties the Recycle Bin, and removes a variety of system files and other items that you no longer need. For step-by-step instructions on how to do this, see Delete files using Disk Cleanup.

Run fewer programs at the same time

Sometimes changing your computing behavior can have a big impact on your PC's performance. If you’re the type of computer user who likes to keep eight programs and a dozen browser windows open at once—all while instant messaging your friends—don’t be surprised if your PC bogs down. Keeping a lot of e‑mail messages open can also use up memory.

If you find your PC slowing down, ask yourself if you really need to keep all your programs and windows open at once. Find a better way to remind yourself to reply to e‑mail messages than to keep all of them open.

Turn off visual effects

If Windows is running slowly, you can speed it up by disabling some of its visual effects. It comes down to appearance versus performance. Would you rather have Windows run faster or look prettier? If your PC is fast enough, you don’t have to make this tradeoff, but if your computer is just barely powerful enough for Windows Vista, it can be useful to scale back on the visual bells and whistles.

You can choose which visual effects to turn off, one by one, or you can let Windows choose a bunch for you. There are 20 visual effects you can control, such as the transparent glass look, the way menus open or close, and whether shadows are displayed.

The Performance Options dialog box lets you turn on or off up to 20 visual effects

To adjust all visual effects for best performance:

1.	Open Performance Information and Tools by clicking the Start button , clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Maintenance, and then clicking Performance Information and Tools.
2.	Click Adjust visual effects. If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
3.	Click the Visual Effects tab, click Adjust for best performance, and then click OK. (For a less drastic option, select Let Windows choose what’s best for my computer.)

Try restarting if there's a problem

This tip is simple. If your computer seems to be running slowly and closing all the currently running programs doesn't help, trying restarting your computer. Restarting can fix performance problems where the exact cause is hard to pinpoint.

Add more memory

This isn’t a guide to buying hardware that will speed up your computer. But no discussion of how make Windows run faster would be complete without mentioning that you should consider adding more memory to your PC.

If a computer running Windows Vista feels too slow, it’s usually because the PC doesn’t have enough memory. The most sure–fire way to speed it up is to add more.

Windows Vista can run on a PC with 512 megabytes (MB) of random access memory (RAM), but it runs better with 1 gigabyte (GB). For optimal performance, boost that to 2 GB or more.

If you're going to the trouble of opening up your PC case to add more memory, you might as well boost the total to at least 2 GB. Especially if you're the sort of person who keeps a dozen e‑mail messages, ten browser windows, and six other programs open at once—all while instant messaging.

Another option is to boost the amount of memory by using Windows ReadyBoost. This feature allows you to use the storage space on some removable media devices, such as USB flash drives, to speed up your computer. It’s easier to plug a flash drive into a USB port than to open your PC case and plug memory modules into its motherboard. For more information, see Using memory in your storage device to speed up your computer.

Check for viruses and spyware

If your PC is running slowly, one dreaded possibility is that it might be infected with a virus or spyware. This is not as common as the other problems, but it is something to consider. Before you worry too much, check your PC using antispyware and antivirus programs.

A common symptom of a virus is a much slower-than-normal computer performance. Other signs include unexpected messages that pop up on your PC, programs that start automatically, or the sound of your hard disk constantly working.

Spyware is a type of program that is installed, usually without your knowledge, to watch your activity on the Internet. You can check for spyware with Windows Defender or other anti-spyware programs. For more information, see How to tell if your computer is infected with spyware.

The best way to deal with viruses is to prevent them in the first place. Always run antivirus software and keep it up to date. Even if you take such precautions, however, it’s possible for your PC to become infected. For more information, see How can I tell if my computer has a virus?

Check your computer’s speed

If you try these tips and your computer is still too slow, you might need a new PC or some hardware upgrades, such as a new hard disk, faster video card, or more memory. There’s no need to guess the speed of your computer, however. Windows provides a way to check and rate your PC’s speed with a tool called the Windows Experience Index.

The Windows Experience Index rates your computer on five key components and gives you a number for each, as well as an overall base score. This base score is only as good as your worst-performing component sub-score.

Base scores currently range from 1 to 5.9. (There is no score yet of 6.0 or higher, although Microsoft plans to raise the ratings in the future as hardware improves.) If your PC is rated lower than 2 or 3, it might be time to consider a new PC, depending on what tasks you want to do with your computer.

For more information, see What is the Windows Experience Index?

Disable services you don’t need

This is the most technically advanced of all these tips. If you don’t want to mess with anything too advanced or complicated, you can skip this one.

Windows has more than 100 services running quietly in the background with names such as Network Access Protection Agent and Shell Hardware Detection. These typically launch when your computer is started and they run until your computer is shut down. Some secure Microsoft services cannot be disabled, but most others can be. Many software companies also install their own services, some of which you can disable to conserve memory and processor power.

You should not turn off a service unless you understand what it does and are confident you don’t need it. Explaining what the many services in Windows do is beyond the scope of this article, but there is plenty of information about this on various websites.

For an overview from Microsoft, download the Microsoft Word document on the Services in Windows Vista website.

Check for updates from the manufacturer

Have you visited the support website of your computer manufacturer to see if the company has released any updates for your specific model? Computer makers often issue software updates for programs they shipped with a PC, especially if the PC is relatively new.

You might be surprised how much information you can find by checking with the manufacturer. If other users are reporting the same problem you are having, the manufacturer might have already issued a fix, or at least provided information about the problem.

Don’t settle for slow

For even more advice, see Ways to improve your computer's performance.

Windows Update error 0x80240029

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:53:00 -0400

Windows Update error 0x80240029 occurs when you try to update Windows Defender Symptoms When you try to update Microsoft Windows Defender on a computer, you receive an error message that resembles the following: Error found: Code 0x80240029 This article contains step-by-step methods to try that may help you install the Windows Defender Update. Notice Cause Methods to resolve the problem Method 1: Manually install the Windows Defender Update Definitions Method 2: Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder Method 3: Verify that you are not experiencing Microsoft Windows Update, Automatic Updates, and Windows Server Update Service (WSUS) problems Windows Vista Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003 Similar problems and solutions Notice This article is intended for advanced computer users. If you are not comfortable with advanced troubleshooting, you might want to ask someone for help or contact support. For information about how to do this, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://support.microsoft.com/contactus (http://support.microsoft.com/contactus) Cause The problem may occur because of one or more of the following circumstances:� You may be experiencing a Windows Update issue. � The SoftwareDistribution folder may be corrupted Methods to resolve the problem To resolve this problem, log on to the user account by using administrative credentials, and then use one of the following methods. Method 1: Manually install the Windows Defender Update Definitions Microsoft delivers Windows Defender updates by using Windows Update. In some cases, you may receive errors because of problems from one of these services that are not related to Windows Defender itself. The first step is to try to manually install the update definitions. To manually install the update definitions, follow these steps: 1. Visit the Security Portal. To do this, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/security/portal/ADL.aspx#top (http://www.microsoft.com/security/portal/ADL.aspx#top) 2. Follow the appropriate steps. 3. If you still receive "Windows Defender Definitions haven't been updated" warning messages, you might want to ask someone for help or contact support. For information about how to do this, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkID=21608 (http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkID=21608) Note The following methods contain advanced troubleshooting steps. If you are not comfortable with advanced troubleshooting, you might want to ask someone for help. No charge support is available for consumers by calling 1-866-PCSAFETY in the United States and in Canada or by contacting your local Microsoft subsidiary. For more information about how to contact your local Microsoft subsidiary for update support issues, visit the following Microsoft International Support Web site: http://support.microsoft.com/common/international.aspx (http://support.microsoft.com/common/international.aspx) Enterprise customers can obtain support for updates through their usual support contacts. Method 2: Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder 1. Exit all open programs. 2. Click Start, click Run, type cmd, and then click OK. 3. At the command prompt, type the following command to rename the SoftwareDistribution folder: net stop wuauserv net stop bits ren %systemroot%SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old net start wuauserv net start bits Method 3: Verify that you are not experiencing Microsoft Windows Update, Automatic Updates, and Windows Server Update Service (WSUS) problems Microsoft delivers Defender Updates by using Microsoft Windows Update, Automatic Updates, and Windows Server Update Services (WSUS). In some cases, you may receive errors caused by problems from one of these services that are not related to Defender itself. To troubleshoot a potential Windows Update problem, follow these steps. Windows Vista 1. Examine the Windowsupdate.log file for error messages. To view the log file, follow these steps:a. Click Start. b. In the Start Search dialog box, type %windowsupdate.log, and then press ENTER. For more information about how to read the Windowsupdate.log file, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: 902093 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/902093/) How to read the Windowsupdate.log file 2. Visit the Windows Help and How-to Web site, and then type the keywords that describe the problem: http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/search.aspx?=&qu=%22windows+update+error%22 (http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/troubleshoot.aspx) Windows 2000, Windows XP, and Windows Server 2003 1. Examine the Windowsupdate.log file for error messages. To view the log file, click Start, click Run, type %windir%windowsupdate.log in the Open box, and then press ENTER. For more information about how to read the Windowsupdate.log file, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: 902093 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/902093/) How to read the Windowsupdate.log file a. 2. Visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/troubleshoot.aspx (http://v5.windowsupdate.microsoft.com/windowsupdate/v6/troubleshoot.aspx) 3. On the Options Web page, type keywords that describe the problem. Similar problems and solutions If you are still experiencing problems, you may be experiencing a different problem. You may find the following articles helpful. 910359 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/910359/) You receive a "0x800A01AE" error message or a "0x080070570" error message when you try to connect to the Windows Update Web page or to the Microsoft Update Web page in Windows Server 2003 or Windows XP 822798 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/822798/) You cannot install some updates or programs If these articles do not help you resolve the problem or if you experience symptoms that differ from those that are described in this article, search the Microsoft Knowledge Base for more information. To search the Microsoft Knowledge Base, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://support.microsoft.com (http://support.microsoft.com/) Then, type the text of the error message that you receive, or type a description of the problem in the Search Support (KB) field. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPLIES TO � Windows Vista Home Basic � Windows Vista Home Premium � Windows Vista Ultimate � Windows Vista Business � Windows Vista Enterprise � Microsoft Windows XP 64-Bit Edition Version 2003 � Microsoft Windows XP Professional � Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Datacenter Edition (32-bit x86)

Error Code 0x80072F8F

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:50:00 -0400

Error Code 0x80072F8F when searching for available updates on Windows Update and Microsoft Update sites SYMPTOMS When you search for available updates on the Microsoft Windows Update Web site, you see the 0x80072F8F error in Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, or Windows Vista. Note The error code for Windows Vista will appear as (80072f8f) CAUSE This error may occur if the date and time on your computer varies too much from the valid date and time of the SSL certificates that are used by the Windows Update Web site. This causes the scan process to fail. Make sure that you verify that the time and date are accurate on your computer. RESOLUTION Windows Vista To resolve this issue in Windows Vista, visit the following Microsoft Web site: Windows Update error 80072f8f http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/Help/bc1393cf-9f9c-79c7-0f91-9337c2c412341033.mspx (http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-US/Help/bc1393cf-9f9c-79c7-0f91-9337c2c412341033.mspx) Windows 2000, Windows XP, or Windows Server 2003 To resolve this issue in Windows 2000, in Windows XP, or in Windows Server 2003, use the following methods. Check your date and time settings 1. Click Start, click Settings, and then click Control Panel. 2. Double-click the Date/Time icon. 3. Set the date and time to the correct values if it is necessary. Click to clear the "Check for server certificate revocation" option 1. Start Internet Explorer. 2. On the Tools menu, click Internet Options. 3. Click the Advance tab. 4. Browse down to the Security section. 5. Click to clear Check for server certificate revocation, and then click OK. 6. Restart the computer. Advanced user steps: Register Softpub.dll, Wintrust.dll, Initpki.dll, and Mssip32.dl 1. Click Start, click Run, type regsvr32 Softpub.dll, and then click OK. 2. Repeat step 1 for the following files:� Wintrust.dll � Initpki.dll � Mssip32.dll APPLIES TO � Windows Vista Business � Windows Vista Enterprise � Windows Vista Home Basic � Windows Vista Home Premium � Windows Vista Ultimate � Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Starter � Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server � Microsoft Windows 2000 Datacenter Server � Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional Edition � Microsoft Windows 2000 Server � Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Web Edition � Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Datacenter Edition (32-bit x86) � Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Enterprise Edition (32-bit x86) � Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition (32-bit x86) � Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition � Microsoft Windows XP Professional

Your product key cannot be validated

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 05:47:00 -0400

Error message when you install Windows Vista: "Your product key cannot be validated. Review your product key and make sure that you have entered it correctly" SYMPTOMS When you click Next after you enter a product key during the installation of Windows Vista, you receive the following error message: Your product key cannot be validated. Review your product key and make sure that you have entered it correctly. CAUSE This problem occurs for one of the following reasons:� You entered an incorrect product key. � The following conditions are true:� You installed Windows Vista by using a Windows Vista media package that does not include Windows Vista SP1. For example, you installed Windows Vista by using a media package from the release version of Windows Vista. � You used a product key that was issued after the release of Windows Vista Service Pack 1 (SP1). � You used a third-party program to extract the contents of a Windows Vista .iso image to a location on a hard disk drive. Then, you installed Windows Vista from the location on the hard disk drive. Note Certain third-party compression programs do not preserve long file names during the extraction process. RESOLUTION To resolve this problem, use one or more of the following methods, as appropriate for your situation. Back to the top Method 1: Retype the product key The problem that is described in the "Symptoms" section may occur if you unintentionally enter an incorrect product key. To verify that you entered the correct product key, retype the product key. Method 2: Install Windows Vista by using a copy of Windows Vista that includes Windows Vista SP1 The problem that is described in the "Symptoms" section may occur if you use a Windows Vista SP1 product key together with a media package from the release version of Windows Vista. To resolve this problem, install Windows Vista by using a copy of Windows Vista that includes Windows Vista SP1. You can order a Windows Vista DVD from the Microsoft Marketplace Web site. To do this, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://www.windowsmarketplace.com/content.aspx?ctId=390 (http://www.windowsmarketplace.com/content.aspx?ctId=390) You can also install Windows Vista by using the keyless installation method. To do this, follow these steps:1. During the installation of Windows Vista, leave the Product Key box blank, and then click Next. 2. When you receive the following message, click No: Do you want to enter your product key now? 3. Click to select the I have selected the edition of Windows that I purchased check box that corresponds to the version of Windows Vista that you want to install, and then click Next. 4. Follow the remaining steps to install Windows Vista. 5. After Windows Vista is installed, install Windows Vista SP1 by starting Windows Update. 6. After Windows Vista SP1 is installed, enter the product key when you are prompted to activate Windows Vista. Note You can also manually start the Windows Activation process. To do this, follow these steps:a. Click Start , right-click Computer, and then click Properties. b. Scroll to the bottom of the Properties dialog box to verify the activation status or to activate Windows Vista. STATUS Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPLIES TO � Windows Vista Service Pack 1 � Windows Vista Business � Windows Vista Enterprise � Windows Vista Home Basic � Windows Vista Home Premium � Windows Vista Ultimate � Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Starter � Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition

error "0x80070246"

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:43:42 -0400

Stop error when you try to download updates from Windows Update on a computer that is running Windows Vista: "0x80070246" Stop error when you try to download updates from Windows Update on a computer that is running Windows Vista: "0x80070246" View products that this article applies to. Article ID : 942968 Last Review : April 14, 2008 Revision : 3.1 SYMPTOMS When you try to download updates from Windows Update on a computer that is running Windows Vista, you may receive the following Stop error message: STOP 0x80070246 ERROR_ILLEGAL_CHARACTER Additionally, the following entry may be logged in the WindowsUpdate.log file: Automatic Updates Failure Content Install Installation Failure: Windows failed to install the following update with error 0x80070246: "Name of Update" Note The WindowsUpdate.log file is in the following location: %Windir%WindowsUpdate.log CAUSE This problem occurs if the GlobalInstallOrder.xml file is corrupted. The GlobalInstallOrder.xml file is in the following location: %Windir%Winsxsx86_microsoft-windows-servicingstack_31bf3856ad364e35_6.0.6000.16386_none_07289f4cca5f6990GlobalInstallOrder.xml RESOLUTION To resolve this problem, replace the corrupted GlobalInstallOrder.xml file on the system with the same file from the Windows Vista installation media. To do this, follow these steps: 1. Obtain the WIM filter driver from the Windows Automated Installation Kit (Windows AIK). To download and install the Windows AIK, visit the following Microsoft Web site: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=c7d4bc6d-15f3-4284-9123-679830d629f2&DisplayLang=en (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=c7d4bc6d-15f3-4284-9123-679830d629f2&DisplayLang=en) 2. Click Start, point to All Programs, click Microsoft Windows AIK, right-click Windows PE Tools Command Prompt, and then click Run as administrator. If you are prompted for an administrator password, type the password. If you are prompted to continue, click Continue. 3. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER. MD c:Mount This command creates a folder that is named Mount. 4. Put the Windows Vista installation media in the CD or DVD drive. 5. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER: Imagex /mount DVDDriveLettersourcesinstall.wim 1 mount 6. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER: CDmountWindowswinsxsx86_microsoft-windows-servicingstack_31bf3856ad364e35_6.0.6000.16386_none_07289f4cca5f6990 This command moves to the source folder 7. At the command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER: xcopy GlobalInstallOrder.xml %windir%winsxsx86_microsoft-windows-servicingstack_31bf3856ad364e35_6.0.6000.16386_none_07289f4cca5f6990 This command copies the GlobalInstallOrder.xml file to the destination folder. MORE INFORMATION For more information about how to use the Sfc.exe tool to replace the corrupted file, click the following article number to view the article in the Microsoft Knowledge Base: 929833 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833/) Some Windows Vista functions may not work, or Windows Vista may stop responding -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPLIES TO � Windows Vista Business � Windows Vista Enterprise � Windows Vista Home Basic � Windows Vista Home Premium � Windows Vista Ultimate � Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition � Microsoft Windows Update Corporate Edition 1.0 � Microsoft Update Keywords: kbexpertiseinter kbtshoot kbprb KB942968

vista update errors

Sun, 15 Jun 2008 20:40:00 -0400

Error message when you try to install updates on a Windows Vista-based computer by using Windows Update or when you try to perform a backup: "Code 0x8007000b" SYMPTOMS When you try to install updates on a Windows Vista-based computer by using Windows Update, you may receive the following error message: Code 0x8007000b If you try to perform a backup by using the "back up files" feature, you may receive the following error message: File backup could not save your automatic backup settings for the following reason: Transaction support within the specified file system resource manager is not started or was shutdown due to an error. (0x80071A91) Please try again. Back to the top CAUSE This problem may occur if the transactional log file that is used by the NTFS file system is corrupted. RESOLUTION To resolve this problem, follow these steps:1. Click Start, type cmd in the Start Search box, and then right-click cmd in the Programs list. 2. Click Run as administrator, and then click Continue. If you are prompted for an administrator password or for confirmation, type the password, or click Allow. 3. At a command prompt, type the following command, and then press ENTER: fsutil resource setautoreset true c: 4. Restart the computer. 5. Use Windows Update to install the latest updates. STATUS Microsoft has confirmed that this is a problem in the Microsoft products that are listed in the "Applies to" section. Back to the top -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- APPLIES TO � Windows Vista Home Basic � Windows Vista Home Premium � Windows Vista Ultimate � Windows Vista Business � Windows Vista Enterprise � Windows Vista Starter � Windows Vista Home Basic 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Business 64-bit Edition � Windows Vista Enterprise 64-bit Edition � Microsoft Windows Update Corporate Edition 1.0 � Microsoft Update Keywords: kbexpertisebeginner kbtshoot kbprb KB939399

Microsoft Windows Vista 30-Day Eval VHD

Tue, 13 May 2008 11:48:00 -0400

Brief Description

This download comes as a pre-configured VHD. This download enables you evaluate Microsoft Windows Vista.

Quick Details

Version:	1.1
Date Published:	7/2/2007
Language:	English
Download Size:	3.9 MB - 1632.2 MB*
*Download size depends on selected download components.

Overview

For organizations with complex desktop infrastructures, whether large or small, Windows Vista Enterprise is the operating system designed specifically to help realize a better return on IT investments. In this VHD, you'll have the opportunity to road-test new and improved features including management (e.g. MUI, BDD, etc…) usability (e.g. Search, Navigation, etc…) and security (UAC, Windows Defender, etc…), enhancements to the Windows Vista platform.

CliCk Here TO Download From Microsoft

System Requirements

Supported Operating Systems: Windows Server 2003; Windows Vista; Windows XP

A virtualization product that supports the VHD format is required to use this virtual machine. Microsoft Virtual PC or Microsoft Virtual Server are provided for free and can be used with these VHD based virtual machines. Please refer to the Virtual Server 2005 R2 System requirements page here.

In addition to the System Requirements for the virtualization product, you will need additional disk and memory resources for running the virtual machine. This VHD is pre-configured to use approximately 10GB of hard disk space and approximately 1024MB of memory.

Instructions

This download offers you the benefits of registering with Microsoft. Click the Continue button near the top of this page to register. After you have gone through the registration process, you will be returned to this page to begin the download