This extract is from www.pcadvisor.co.uk/forums: Disable the Windows Update Service (Settings > Control Panel > Administrative Tools > Services). Just stop the service. Navigate to: C:/Windows/ (or whereever you Windows system is) Find the folder named: “SoftwareDistribution” Rename that folder to something like “SoftwareDistribution.old” Create a new folder called “SoftwareDistribution” Go back to your Services panel and start the Windows Update service Rerun Windows Update. Do post back with your success or not.

Hi merrymoon, Are you logged in as Administrator or User? I believe that you'll require Admin permissions to change a previously assigned folder name. Also, try booting into Safe mode (F8), and try the renaming. Best regards, PepperOne

Hi merrymoon,

I'm glad that you were able to rename the folder, and that Windows Update works now.

You're most welcome for the help.

Regards,
PepperOne