Service Pack One

[AJLZ]

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

[RandyL]

Hi.

Just a couple questions.

 

Are you using auto-update or updating via the update applet?

 

Are you updating by the stand alone installer from Microsoft?

 

Is this the 32 bit or 64 bit version of Windows?

[AJLZ]

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!

[RandyL]

Go to control panel (classic view) and click on System. This will show your version of Windows and service pack.

 

Next go to Windows Updates in the control panel and check for updates manually. While there look in Restore hidden updates and look in View update history.

 

You tried the stand alone installer and ran the readiness tool which did not resolve the error. Microsoft suggests that it should work.

 

Are you getting any updates? Is Windows activated?

[AJLZ]

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.

[Jelly Bean]

You may follow the below methods and check the results:

 

Method 1:

Run system file checker scan on the computer, which resolves the issue related to system files. You may refer the below link for steps: How to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files on Windows Vista or on Windows 7:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833

 

Method 2:

Run system update readiness tool from the below link: Description of the System Update Readiness Tool for Windows Vista, for Windows Server 2008, for Windows 7, and for Windows Server 2008 R2:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947821

 

You may also refer: You receive a "0x80070490" error code when you use Windows Update or Microsoft Update Web sites to install updates:http://support.microsoft.com/kb/958044

[AJLZ]

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.

[Plastic Nev]

Hi, it does look like there may be system files missing or corrupt, unfortunately the only way to correct that is by method 3, using the second method within that article.

You will need to replace that broken disk drive, and also more importantly you need a full Microsoft Vista Home Premium disk. Not any sort of manufacturers recovery disk that may have come with the computer, they will not work in that sort of repair.

You may not need to actually buy a Vista Home Premium disk if you know someone who has one and can borrow it though.

 

Nev.

[AJLZ]

I am guessing that I really do need to have these service packs?

 

I really do appreciate all your help and suggestions!

[Plastic Nev]

Hi, it is best to have the up to date service packs installed as they do help make the system more secure from outside attacks, plus also help in keeping the system stable.

However with a good firewall, and decent antivirus plus antimalware such as "Malwarebytes" or/and "Superantispyware" coupled with sensible web use you may still be OK without if the computer is OK otherwise, but that is not reccomended.

It is best to get the system sorted out though and those service packs installed, as all other Microsoft updates will also be able to be installed then.

 

As far as replacing the broken disk drive, it usually isn't too difficult if doing it yourself. If however you are not keen on that, replacement plus cost will not be too expensive in a reputable repairer, plus of course they will have the right disk available to both perform a system repair and therefore enable install of those service packs. If you know of a good repairer, it won't hurt to ask questions and get an estimate if you feel you need to go that rout.

 

Nev.