Windows can't check for updates and unknown error code 80073712

Question

I have a Dell XPS 410 with Windows Vista with 32 bit operating system. It was in storage from June 13 until August 3rd. Since starting it up again, I can't get rid of the Windows update icon. No new updates since June 4 and the last attempt was June 11. Tried many different message board supposed fixes and no results. When clicking on the icon, it says 'check for updates for your computer'. When you click the check for updates button, it says to install new windows update software. When you click there, it says checking for updates and then goes back to the first screen or gives an error message unknown error code 80073712. It then goes back to the original screen of check for updates for your computer. Tried the safety scanner and other scanners for malware. Nothing. Tried a variety (all I could find) of posts on the subject suggestions. No change. Could not roll back beyond the date I restarted the computer after storage. Is it time to wipe and start over?

jackshack · Answer

It sometimes helps to run Microsoft Update directly. The following is for Windows XP, but when it detects that you are running Vista it should switch on its own or lead you to the correct page:

http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

Storage, Drives & Media

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