This is a mid 2003 system well over a decade old. Are you trying to install Windows XP? If so you should be aware that it has reached end of life and is ill advised to use it for internet connectivity.

You should patch Windows XP to April 2014 (its last update) using the WSUS Offline Update:

http://dellwindowsreinstallationguide.com/wsus-offline-update/obtaining-the-latest-service-packsbuilds-of-internet-explorer/patching-windows-xp-fully-using-the-wsus-offline-update/

The XP system drivers are here, ensure you install the Chipset drivers first before the modem drivers and before the audio drivers for best results:

http://downloads.dell.com/published/pages/dimension-4600.html

Many thanks for such a comprehensive reply.

However, when I try to unzip the patch, I get this message:

Error - 0x80070570 file or directory is corrupted and unreadable

How do I get around this, please?

Thanks

How have you loaded Windows XP? Or is this from an external hard drive?

 It seems the installation file/directory is corrupt?

Hi

I reinstalled XP using the original installation disc provided by Dell for the desktop back in 2004.

Any idea why I can't get the patch to download. I am saving it to an external hard drive, which is working fine and has no existing problems.

G