Failed windows update

Every time I attempt to do a Windows update it says failed, I'm trying to install the Windows Installer 3.1 and it keeps saying it fails. Also, when I shutdown the computer and let the updates install that way it just says "Installing update 1 of 8..." and stays there for a minute then shutdown without installing anything.

Is there a way to fix this? Also, could I download the WIndows Installer 3.1 .exe from Microsoft without using the auto update tool? Or how can I delete previously downloaded updates that fail to install?

Any help will be appreciated, this is one of the most annoying problems I've had with Windows.

Description of the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility
To remove faulty updates

Windows Update Not Working.
Basics from MS.
Also confirm Start-->Run-->Services.msc, the following 3 are in "Automatic" state
Automatic Updates
Background Intelligent Transfer Service
Cryptographic Service
Event Log

Also confirm your clock is set right, and close to the correct time (or on the correct time)

Download FixWindowsUpdate.exe
A tool I have used before, to fix Windows Update not working issues

kimsland said:

Description of the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility
To remove faulty updates

Windows Update Not Working.
Basics from MS.
Also confirm Start-->Run-->Services.msc, the following 3 are in "Automatic" state
Automatic Updates
Background Intelligent Transfer Service
Cryptographic Service
Event Log

Also confirm your clock is set right, and close to the correct time (or on the correct time)

Download FixWindowsUpdate.exe
A tool I have used before, to fix Windows Update not working issues

Click to expand...

Thanks Kim, the last link you gave me on the Windows Fix is said by Avast! to carry a trojan, although it's probably not true I can't use it. I'll try the other things you linked and tell you the results.