Windows 7 Service Pack 1 hangs during the configuration phase after installation

Steps to take before installing Windows 7 Service Pack 1
How to increase your chances of installing Service Pack 1 successfully.
http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1steps021611.html
(Revised 2/24/11 - 5 new steps added to help insure success) some of which are listed below.

Update your device drivers to the most recent Windows 7 device drivers from your
computer manufacture's support web site (for your specific make and model)
Start by installing the chipset/motherboard driver follwed by the remaining available drivers.

Run the SFC  /SCANNOW  command.
This will check and repair if necessary any critical Windows system files.
a) Click on Start/All programs/Accessories then
b) Right click on Command Prompt option and select 'Run as administrator'.
c) At the command prompt enter:  SFC  /SCANNOW

Run the System Update Readiness Tool:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/947821/en-us

Try Renamng the 'Software Distribution folder':
http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1steps021611.html (Step #10)

Also:
How to install Windows 7 Service Pack 1 using Windows Update – Step by Step:
http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1wu02231001.html

Steps to take before installing Win7 SP1
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2505743

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support is available
for issues related to Windows 7 Service Packs:
Note: Availability of chat, phone or e-mail support differs depending on your geographic location.
Some issues may require more advanced support for which there may be a charge:  https://support.microsoft.com/oas/default.aspx?&gprid=14496&&st=1&wfxredirect=1&sd=gn

Learn how to install Win 7 SP1
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/learn-how-to-install-windows-7-service-pack-1-sp1

Win7 SP1: Installation tips
http://windowsteamblog.com/windows/b/bloggingwindows/archive/2011/02/16/windows-7-sp1-follow-up.aspx

Troubleshoot problems installing a service pack for Windows 7
http://windows.microsoft.com/troubleshootwindows7sp1

How do I reset Windows Update components?
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/971058

-------------- An alternative method to install SP1 without the need to use Windows Update ---------------

Instead of using Windows Update try the SP1 Download:
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?FamilyID=c3202ce6-4056-4059-8a1b-3a9b77cdfdda

For 32-Bit Windows 7 download: windows6.1-KB976932-X86.exe
For 64-Bit Windows 7 download: windows6.1-KB976932-X64.exe

Note: Do not select 'Run' after clicking the Download button.
You should save this file to a unique folder in the Windows 7 drive/partition.
For more information read: Windows 7 - Service Pack 1 – How to install Step by Step
http://www.pagestart.com/win7sp1sbs02201101.html

J W Stuart: http://www.pagestart.com