[EAFiedler]

You might try downloading the file from here and installing it that way.
Windows XP Service Pack 3

Close all programs including Firewall and anti-virus programs.

[BKH1]

I downloaded the file from the MS site. Looong installation (after download), then "access is denied". I had NOD32 deactivated during installation.

[EAFiedler]

Have you tried the Windows Update site?

Do you have a non-Intel processor?
If so, you need this update first:
Update for Windows XP (KB953356)

[BKH1]

EAFiedler,

I Downloaded and installed KB953356, and KB936929-sp3. Still get 'access denied'.

[EAFiedler]

Yikes! This is still a problem?
Are you sure you want Service Pack 3?

What processor do you have? Is this a branded computer? Dell, HP etc?

[BKH1]

My computer is a HP Pavilion 4325 US laptop, with Athlon X2000+ 1.66 GHz CPU.
I have all the updates for SP2, but will these continue with SP3 available?

[EAFiedler]

Did you know there are four different versions of your notebook?
I am including the link for the first version from HP:
http://h10061.www1.hp.com/ccsearch/s...38953&search=0
I skimmed over the four versions, though nothing stood out, not even the Windows (KB953356) update...



Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3

Download this file, you will need it for Method # 3 in the next link, where you will also create a file in Notepad.
SubInACL (SubInACL.exe)

Error message when you try to install Windows XP Service Pack 3: "Access is denied" KB949377


If Method # 3 fails to work from: KB949377 then try the steps in this link, a slightly different Notepad file is created:
http://www.askvg.com/windows-xp-serv...ess-is-denied/


Good luck and Please let us know the outcome.

[BKH1]

I feel like a klutz. When I try to download subinacl, i get an error:
line 2
char 1
error: invalid character
code 6
url http://download.microsoft.com/downlo...2672-bc6a-4dc8
bfaa-98637b226367/subinacl.msi

[EAFiedler]

This isn't going to happen without a fight, is it?

I have attached a .zip file containing the subinacl.msi file.

Let me know if you are able to download that.

[BKH1]

Got it, thanks. I'll let you know. I really appreciate your efforts.

Regards, BKH

[BKH1]

Whew!! It worked. What a struggle. I am in your dept, EAF. Thank you very much.

[EAFiedler]

It finally cried, "Uncle?".

Thanks for letting us know it was successful.

Was the first notepad file successful, or did you have to create the second version of the notepad file?

[BKH1]

First notepad file was successful. Thanks again. I had to remove my ext HD, as it is connected through a non USB2 port (because my HS internet card occupies the PC card slot). I suppose it's time for a new machine.

[EAFiedler]

You are welcome.