AJLZ

I am guessing that I really do need to have these service packs? I really do appreciate all your help and suggestions!

Method 1 - I just did not understand this at all. I ran the scan but after that I was completely lost I am afraid. Method 2 I have already done this and it has not made any difference. Method 3 - This advices to the method 2, it also asks you to insert your Windows Visat disc...2 problems here...I have no idea where the disk is but more importantly the disc drive of the laptop is broken.

The system info shows that I am running Windows Vista Home premium but with no mention of a service pack. I have done a manual check for updates and there was only one optional for Windows Live essentials and nothing under 'restore hidden updates'. Updates are set to be installed automatically every day. I did a manual search for updates but still just the one optional update available. I am having alot of trouble conecting to the internet I usually get an exclamation mark on the computer screens at the bottom right hand side of the screen...I dont know if this could be connected to not having the service packs? It can often take 30 mins of connecting, disconnecting, rebooting router, resetting IP address and various other recommended solutions given by my trouble shooting choices on the laptop. Any help will be so greatfully recieved.

Using auto updates but it isnt telling me I need to down load this pack....I found out that I should have had it through different means. I tried to download the pack directly through microsoft and disabled my anti virus whilst doing so. My version of Windows is 32 bit. Thank you!

I have an Inspiron 1720 about 5 years old. I apparently need to download service pack 2 and by doing this I have discovered that I dont even have service pack 1. I have tried to download the first pack and this and recieved error 0x80070490. I googled that and it told me to donwload an Update Readiness Tool. I did this and now I have error 0x800F081F. I have googled that too but the only pages that shows this error message appear to be french. I did a translate and it recommend that I download something else (not sure what I am afraid). I dont want to keep downloading things if they are not needed so thought it best to try a forum for help. Please be gentle in your responses and stick to very basic laymans terms otherwise I will have no clue! Thank yo in advance