Computer won't switch off

cepheus

It still seems to be attempting to download (or thinks its downloading Windows updates) when I attempt to switch off. I have left it for several hours, and tried 3 times but still the problem remains. It is XP version 5.1 SP3 with 523 MB available memory. Can anyone help?

Lokolo

How are you trying to switch off? (are you press the power button??)

cepheus

Normal way Start > turn off computer

windows normally downloads updates prior to actually switching off.

Suppose I could just switch off automatic updates, but then I expect the required download may just get stuck.

OneADay

I recall having trouble with XP when I had it - constantly slow shutdowns.

I never left it trying to shut down for hours, at most 10 mins - if after 10 mins it does not shut down - switch the darn power off or something.

I think the problem was to do with xp updates following update to sp3. It did speed up after a few windows updates.

Also you have to ensure you shut down all running programs before shutting down. Also check for spyware etc.

M4RKM

so windows is probably still downloading updates...

you can select a standard shut down, and it will turn off, and maybe do your downloads while you're using the computer...

M

cepheus

Well it seems to just download them, then attempts to re-download the same updates again, if I use this site! I have to Cntl Alt Del to come out and remove the frozen window

http://update.microsoft.com/microsoftupdate/v6/default.aspx?ln=en-us

It's as if if doesn't recognise they have been downloaded, so it just keep trying. Typical Microsoft.

Eventually says
Problem: A problem on your computer is preventing updates from being downloaded or installed
Solution: To fix the problem, try installing the updates again. If that doesn't work, use the Troubleshooter to try solve the problem.</B>

OneADay

You can do the updates manually and in smaller chunks by selecting fewer updates - that should get it done - will probably require about a 100 reboots (eherm, kidding but never knwo).

JasX

Might be worth running the "system file checker tool"

Open a DOS windon (type "cmd" into the run box)

then use the command "sfc /scannow"

You'll need your windows install CD handy, I think you're supposed run windows update after doing this too.

Details here:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310747

cepheus

I downloaded part of the required files, and it switches off now without updating/downloading any more so it seems to have worked!

Strider590

OneADay wrote: »

I recall having trouble with XP when I had it - constantly slow shutdowns.

I never left it trying to shut down for hours, at most 10 mins - if after 10 mins it does not shut down - switch the darn power off or something.

What's wrong with it taking 10 minutes? (which it shouldn't if it's clean), you shouldn't be waiting around to pull the mains plug anyway, it's a great way to buggar up your powersupply.... They're designed to be left connected.