My laptop has been unable to complete the Windows Update process for the longest time

Bought a Dell 1520, running on Vista home premium, in July last year. Have not been able to complete the Windows update process. I've not even been able to update to Vista Service Pack 1. A window pops up most of the time when I start the laptop. It indicates that an "Advanced FX" thingy has stopped working and that Windows is unable to provide a solution. For the first three weeks, I was able to utilize my wireless networking both at my residence and at places offering Wifi. After that, my wireless networking has stopped working and I've been using an ethernet cable for the longest time now. I'm at a loss. Been reading many Vista forums and have perused through the Dell forum and have yet to attain a solution. Somebody please help!!! Your every assistance in this matter will be greatly appreciated.