Multiple problems with new computer

[DJ A.]

I recently purchased a computer meant to be used for gaming the specs of which you can see in my profile. I used the install disk I got with my old computer and installed linux on my old computer, the disk is kindof scratched up. I forgot to purchase a CD ROM and DVD drive so im using an old 4x CD drive I found in my basement. When installing there were two files that would not install, chimes.wav, and one other file the name of which I have forgotten. After installing I found my resolution (I'm using a widescreen) not to go up to what it's supposed to be at. I knew I needed to install my graphics card driver, I installed it but when restarting my computer my computer I found that it hadn't help, after trying this a few times I realized that if I didn't restart my computer after the install I could make my resolution go up to the max! But after restarting my computer it won't! My other problem is that I can't seem to get windows update to work and I can't turn on Automatic Updates. I also can't find system restore or internet explorer (which isn't too big of a deal (I use FF) just thought it was weird). I tried using the fix option in the windows disk but still some files can't be read or won't install! Please help, I'd like to enjoy my new computer!

Thanks,

DJ

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

Welcome to the Windows Forum!

From your profile I see that you have Windows XP-SP1. What I would recommend as a first step is to upgrade to SP2, then report back if the situation has improved. You can download the full Service Pack from here.

Regarding Windows Update - please specify what error(s) you are getting.

About Internet Explorer - don't you have it on Start -> Programs? If it is there, but not on the desktop, then you can download the TweakUI PowerToy to enable it on the desktop. But I suggest that you first install SP2.

[DJ A.]

Ok, I installed SP2, and it didn't help anything. When windows update tries to install something it just says failed next to them then a new screen comes up and says the following updates were not installed and lists all the packages.

[Scarecrow Man]

Files not being installed sounds like a bad thing. You should go to Start > Run > sfc /scannow to repair any damaged or missing files.

As for your resolution, try installing your monitor driver. Either from the CD that came with it, or from the manufacturers website.

for Windows Update, go to http://update.microsoft.com and make sure to upgrade to Microsoft Update and install all the files required.

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

If Microsoft Update (http://update.microsoft.com/) also fails, please try to find the hexadecimal error code (something like 0x00000000) that is displayed somewhere if the update fails.

I think this is where you find the error code after Microsoft Update completes unsuccessfully

'Failed' should be a link then; clicking on it you should find the error code(s).

[DJ A.]

Heres what happens when i use windows update:

First I try to install, everything fails

Then it tells me again

Then again and tells me to check out updates history

So heres my update history

but when I try to press the button to see how to solve the problem it takes me back to the windows update homepage!

Also about the monitor:

"After installing I found my resolution (I'm using a widescreen) not to go up to what it's supposed to be at. I knew I needed to install my graphics card driver, I installed it but when restarting my computer my computer I found that it hadn't help, after trying this a few times I realized that if I didn't restart my computer after the install I could make my resolution go up to the max! But after restarting my computer it won't!"

I'm sorry if I come off as a rude noob but I'm not in the best mood right now, for many other reasons besides this..

Thanks,

DJ

[ɹəuəllıʍ ʇɐb]

I think one of the things that must be installed first, and separately from all other updates is BITS, which for some reason seems to have been canceled in your update run. Can you try to install that standalone? You can also download it as an installer package from http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details...3d-eb19368f9047

If you get more errors, click on the yellow question mark on the results list; this should give you the error code.

Regarding the screen resolution, are you sure you have the latest driver for the exact graphics card you have? Also, is there a driver for your monitor?