Here's the work around that I was given by Microsoft ....... Remember this applies to only Win XP Home .....OEM versions.......
click .....start /control panel/Internet Options .......when IO properties opens ...click on the Program Tab.....go down to "Manage Add-ons" and click it .........now scroll down and locate the WINDOWS GENUINE ADVANTAGE entry .......hi-lite it ...now in the settings box put a mark in front of "disable" ......then click ok ........ return to the M/S update page and you will be able to download your updates ............
In an Email from Microsoft , they tell me that they are aware of the problem and have a team working on it and expect resolution this week.
cheers
dl65