Windows XP SP3 installation problem

[jsanc80]

Hey Paul,

So I created the cd and tried to install it.  This is the error message that I am getting. 

Service Pack 3 Setup Error:

Service pack 3 setup cannot update a checked (debug) system with a free (retail) version of Service pack 3, or vice versa.

[Hanspuppa]

Hello jsanc80, It seems you have a license conflict in your registry. Here is the procedure to resolve this error.

Reset the default security provider in Windows XP

To reset the default security provider in Windows XP, delete the relevant registry keys in the Windows registry.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Start the computer. Press the F8 key during startup to start the computer in Safe mode.
2. Start Registry Editor (Regedt32.exe) by using the Run box and enter  regedt32.exe
3. Locate the below sections in the registry and delete only the Providers registry keys in the Windows registry:
   HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Microsoft\Cryptography\Providers
   HKEY_USERS\S-1-5-20\Software\Microsoft\Cryptography\Providers
4. Quit Registry Editor.
5. Restart the computer.

You must be certain to follow these instructions to the letter, since if you delete the wrong listing, the system might not boot. After the reboot, see if Windows XP SP3 will install.

[jsanc80]

Hanspuppa,

I cannot locate the sections that you listed.  I do not have a Cryptography\Providers file in the Microsoft folders in either of the registries. I tried to download the SP3 version you suggested (for networks) it was running and half way through the installation, it quites and says SP3 setup could not locate a file.   It doesn't specify which file.  This was the same thing that was happening when I was trying to install from the Microsoft Updates homepage? 

[CherylG · Accepted solution]

Try MSFixit for the problem, or do the steps manually whichever you prefer:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/822798

Simply renaming the Catroot2 folder usually resolves such issues,for me anyway.Reboot and try the SP3 network install file again.

[Aiscer]

You may want to check this link:

http://www.askvg.com/windows-xp-sp3-setup-error-cannot-update-a-checked-debug-system-with-a-free-ret...

It describes your error during SP3 installation perfectly.

[jsanc80]

Solution:

Run Microsoft Fix It.

Install SP3 Network version for IT professionals in safe mode.

Problem solved!

Thanks to everyone that gave recommendations.

[CherylG]

You are very welcome. Happy to hear that the problem is resolved and you are now updated!

[z365682]

couldn't rename the folder catroot2