Vista - Windows Update Error 80073712

Hello,

I am running Windows vista Ultimate edition, and I am encountering error
code 80073712 when trying to run windows update. Two updates are failing to
install -
KB943302 and KB943302.

I would be most grateful for any assistance.

Thank you, Barnaby Legg

Your windows update is corrupt...

To fix it, run the following CMD (as Admin):
reg delete HKLM\COMPONENTS /v StoreDirty

also navigate to C:\Windows\winsxs, and delete a file called "Pending.xml" [its on every vista install if you can see it or not]

you will need to enable "show all files" and untick "protected operating system files" from "folder options" in control panel

Stuck at the first step.... went into CMD.exe, and entered
reg delete HKLM\COMPONENTS /v StoreDirty

got the message ERROR: Access is denied.

I am the only user on this computer, and my account is set to admin... i
also checked the shortcut to CMD.exe and ticked the box "run as
administrator".

Any other ideas?

Many thanks,

Barney
"dmex" wrote:

cmd is hardcoded to ignore that tickbox for administrator you must launch it from the startmenu by searching for cmd then right clicking and clicking " run as administrator" or it will not have administrator access...

either way just delete the Pending.xml its another way of fixing the error without that reg delete key afterwards reboot and check for updates

cool... done that, now it says:

ERROR: The system was unable to find the specified registry key or value.

"dmex" wrote:

if you are unable to find pending.xml the try running Error checking this fixed it for me
the chances are also if you have still been unable to fix this till now you will have other upates that will also not install
and without these updates you cannot install SP1

solution directions:

start - computer - right click C:/ - properties - tools - Error checking - check now - reboot - wait for vista to boot fully (no HDD activitie) - start - control pannel - windows update - check for updates (dont skip this part) - reboot - install SP1 - enjoy

OMG im 13 and i found out why this error happens,

its either you have not set your time correctly, region, country,date,

second scan your windows from malware viruses and trojans,worms, anything of that sort, i suggest mcafee.
last but not least try this
credits to : dmex
To fix it, run the following CMD (as Admin):
reg delete HKLM\COMPONENTS /v StoreDirty
finally reboot, and vwala! it worked for me it has to work for you, and no problem have fun!