Cannot install updates since 1/12/05!

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.win2000.setup_upgrade (More info?)

I had it on "Auto.". I THINK it started when, advised by Earthlink (who posts
ads for Norton software all over the place), that I needed to update my
Norton Virus Scan. W/ prices, I decided to just buy Norton SystemWorks
($60!), which had worked wonders (esp. GoBack) on my Compaq, Windows 98. I
have a Gateway (DON'T DO IT!--explain later), w/WinXP (no REAL XP disc--just
Applic., Drivers, Operating Sys., on 3 sep. discs!). I have NO flopy drive (
I ASSUMED....). They SAID I'd have a CD-RW--it's Nero, can't get it to work
reliably--I have CD CreaTor 5- told NOT to use it), so - no reliable Backup.
On 1/12/05, got email from MSN about Update--I went to be sure it installed
(Malicious Software Remover). Wasn't! NOW, the LiveUpdate on my Norton Virus
won';t work either! Earthlink tells me I am steadily bombarded w/"worms" and
Horses, that it "caught and cleaned". But, I have made a strange Hale-type
enemy, by disagreeing w/him about a book review on Amazon. I went to his
website (BIZARRE stuff!I MEAN it!) he began sending me extremely &@#$%@
mails, containing private info. about me, no one even knows, except sisters,
who I e-mail. details of schooling, licensure, why fired, how disabled,
etc.I finally got him blocked (had 10 e-mail add.)But, w/out my Updates--
nothing works right since. Also installed Norton System. just about a week
before. Afraid to un-install Norton (if my SR is "infected"--I need a
Backup--don;t have one)--GoBack. I DID disable Windows Firewall. can;'t
figure out if Earthlink REALLY provides a firewall or not! So, the Malicious
Software (and about 8 others---printer down TOO!), download, but refuse to
install--it gives no reason. PLEASE HELP ME! I have BB, and 2 hrs. to bring
up Win.
XP! Shows "client online", or black. Also have (got scared)Ad-Aware(saw
cookies!), SpyBouncer ($40-live on SSI-$506 mo.), SpyBlaster,
SpyBomber-varioud spam/scam, etc. from MSN, earthlink, Norton--BIG
MESS-afraid to send out email (scan ea.one), lost only (tiny) source of
pocket change, please help me. I know I am stupid, go to "scary" (liberal
politival) websites. PC biggest contact w/world. Disability not readily
apparent--prevents much socializing. Smart, (at Philosophy, etc.), love
people--so sad and bored, I cry. MSN finally call--will "look into it".
THANKS any suggestions, ideas, encouragemet--PLEASE! --
Ms. Kyle Christensen, MSW