Windows 7 Service pack 1(32-bit/ x86) will not install on my laptop.

Hi J W Stuart

Thanks for the reply.

I have tried some of these solutions (but didnt go into specifics in my original question..so my fault!), but most of your reply seems really helpful, and I will now attempt to follow your instructions.

Found most of my assistance so far from www.pagestart.com, so thanks all!

will reply again with success/further questions in due course...but thanks again for your time ;)

Steps to take before installing Windows 7 Service Pack 1

How to increase your chances of installing Service Pack 1 successfully.

http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1steps021611.html

Run the SFC  /SCANNOW  command. This will check and repair if necessary any critical Windows system files.

Click on Start/All programs/Accessories then

Right click on Command Prompt option and select 'Run as administrator'.

At the command prompt enter:  SFC  /SCANNOW

Run the System Update Readiness Tool:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947821/en-us

Microsoft released the System Update Readiness Tool to resolve

certain conditions that could cause installing updates and other software not to work.

You do not have to manually run this tool. This tool is offered automatically

through Windows Update to computers that have a condition that the tool could resolve.

Try Renamng the 'Software Distribution folder':

Click the Start Menu and enter:  %windir%    then press 'OK'

Next: Locate the SoftwareDistribution folder

Right click on the 'SoftwareDistribution' folder and then select the 'Rename' option.

Rename the folder to:  SoftwareDistributionOld   and press the 'ENTER' key.

Windows will create a new 'SoftwareDistribution' folder when needed.

Security Essentials warning: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/why-am-i-receiving-a-message-about-microsoft-security-essentials-or-microsoft-forefront-client-security-when-installing-a-service-pack

Also: Steps to take before installing Win7 SP1

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2505743

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support is available

for issues related to Windows 7 Service Packs:

Note: Availability of chat, phone or e-mail support differs depending on your geographic location.

Some issues may require more advanced support for which there may be a charge:  https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?&gprid=14496&&st=1&wfxredirect=1&sd=gn

Windows 7 - Service Pack 1 – How to install Step by Step

http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1sbs02201101.html

Learn how to install Win 7 SP1

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/learn-how-to-install-windows-7-service-pack-1-sp1

Win7 SP1: Installation tips

http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2011/02/16/windows-7-sp1-follow-up.aspx

Troubleshoot problems installing a service pack for Windows 7

http://windows.microsoft.com/troubleshootwindows7sp1

-------------- An alternative method to install SP1 without the need to use Windows Update ---------------

Instead of using Windows Update try the SP1 Download:

http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=c3202ce6-4056-4059-8a1b-3a9b77cdfdda

For 32-Bit Windows 7 download: windows6.1-KB976932-X86.exe

For 64-Bit Windows 7 download: windows6.1-KB976932-X64.exe

Note: Do not select 'Run' after clicking the Download button.

You should save this file to a unique folder in the Windows 7 drive/partition.

For more information read: Windows 7 - Service Pack 1 – How to install Step by Step

http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1sbs02201101.html

J W Stuart: http://www.pagestart.com