1. I tried over and over again to update windows but most of the updates fail with multiple error codes! I have windows vista home premium 32bit
What error codes or messages? Usually updates are task scheduled by default or automatic.
2. Also none of my usb ports can read any devices
You could try reinstalling USB root hubs under device manager. Did this happen suddenly or any changes, updates that could have cause the problem?
if i were to suspect malware then i would have posted it originally right?
While windows updates makes a computer more safe, fixing security holes or patches along with a good antivirus, firewall and antispyware.malware scanner for support, a virus infection such as rootkits and rogue programs could certainly make certain windows functions alter or be corrupted. This may have come before or currently with the failed updates, so any probable infections is a possibility.