Can't get automatic updates.

I have a 2 month history of failed windows updates. Auto updates is set, but when the tray icon appears and is clicked, it always says: 'Downloading 0%'.

I've seen what my priority/express updates are and have downloaded some from the d/load center, but boy, do they make things difficult: searching for KB's even with full title info just doesn't work - and there's hundreds of 'em. I've got Office updates I can't get too. Am I missing something simple??

I think I've done all the checking I can, in services etc., to make sure updates should be working.I can't trace anything I might have done back to May 27th, when I got my last auto updates.

My laptop is optimised and otherwise runs OK. Inspiron 9300, XP Media Center SP2, McAfee suite protection. Please help; I've got a brick by my feet and it's going through the screen if don't get this sorted...

Thanks in advance, Rik