Dial-A-Fix

Dial-a-fix is primarily used to fix Windows Updates problems, but is also useful in fixing many strange problems involving the Windows Installer, security permissions, faulting services, and more.

This tool only work on Windows XP, and can be downloaded from here: http://wiki.lunarsoft.net/wiki/Dial-a-fix

From the Dial-A-Fix website: (Emphasis where needed)

Dial-a-fix (hereafter known as "DAF") is a collection of known fixes gleaned from Microsoft Knowledgebase articles, Microsoft MVPs, and other important support forums, that will assist you in repairing problems with your system. Although this tool is ordinarily meant for power users, technicians, and administrators, it is quite safe to use even without technical guidance (although guidance is recommended). Simply choose the solutions you wish to apply via checkmarks, and click GO. There are other buttons and tools present on the main dialog as well, such as the policy scanner. All tools and checkmarks identify their purpose when you mouse over them.

The standard procedure to use with Dial-A-Fix, is to download the .zip file. Uncompress it and run the dial-a-fix.exe file. Click the green, double check-marks at the bottom of the window to select everything, then click, "GO!" When Dial-A-Fix finishes, reboot the computer and see if your problem is resolved.

This is an absolute miracle worker on Windows Updates problems along with many other strange issues.

There is a tools button in Dial-A-Fix with more repair procedures it can perform.

Another must in any technician's toolbelt.

There is a bright pink warning box on the Dial-A-Fix home page now so caution is advised:

Dial-a-fix does not work with any Windows OS higher than Windows XP. This includes Windows Vista, Windows 7.

Dial-a-fix also has a critical unpatched bug that will delete your C:\Documents folder.

It is highly recommended to read the Warnings page before downloading and using this software.

I think it's over stated as I've used it numerous times without any problem but if the author thinks it's worth mentioning I thought it would be a good idea to mention it here as well.

Thanks for drawing attention to the warning Rich, Like you I have used it a fair amount but never had any problems with C:\ Documents….. Maybe though it will bite me at some time!