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Unable to read from or right to the database

When I try to install Windows XP service pack 3 I get the error "Unable to read from or write to the database"  How do I fix this?
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Answer
Although it mentions SP2 the same is applicable to SP3

Error message that you receive when you try to update a Windows XP-based computer to Windows XP Service Pack 2 by visiting the Windows Update Web site: "Unable to read from or write to database"
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/915169
TaurArian [MVP] 2005-2010 - Update Services
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MVP 1st July 2005- 30th June 2016
WIMVP 1st July 2016- 30th June 2017

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WinXP SP3's been available for almost 2 years now. How come you're just getting around to installing it now?

What anti-virus application or security suite is installed and is your subscription current?  What anti-spyware applications (other than Defender)?  What third-party firewall (if any)?

Has a(another) Norton or McAfee application ever been installed on this machine (e.g., a free-trial version that came preinstalled when you bought it)?

See...

When you try to install Windows XP Service Pack, you receive the error message "Access is denied" or "Service Pack installation did not complete":
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949377

WinXP SP3 - Read all prerequisites for a successful installation
http://msmvps.com/blogs/harrywaldron/archive/2008/05/08/windows-xp-sp3-read-all-prerequisites-for-a-successful-installation.aspx

Free unlimited installation and compatibility support for WinXP SP3 was available from 14 April 2008 thru May 2009.  Such support will cost you US$59 per incident now.

~Robear Dyer (PA Bear) ~ MS MVP (IE, Mail, Security, Windows & Update Services) since 2002 ~ Disclaimer: MS MVPs neither represent nor work for Microsoft
--
~Robear Dyer (PA Bear)
Microsoft MVP (Windows Client) since October 2002

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Last updated July 27, 2018 Views 2,793 Applies to: