Windows Update not working, ActiveX not running, Cryptographic errors

I'm getting an odd problem, which may be one problem causing others, or may be a range of problems.

Windows Update doesn't work, it comes up with Error number 0x80092026. I've found various solutions to this error, which mostly involve setting IE to default settings (doesn't fix it) or deleting a Safer key in HKLM or HKCU (doesn't fix it).

In addition, no ActiveX controls will run, despite IE being on default settings. Initially the usual message "To help protect your security, Internet Explorer stopped this site from installing an ActiveX control. Click here for options". When you select "Install ActiveX control", it comes up with "Your security settings do not allow websites to use ActiveX controls installed on your computer. This page may not display correctly". IE's default settings, which were set, shouldn't do this.

I tried running mgadiag.exe to see if this was an issue for the windows update. Under Validation Status, it had "Cryptographic Errors Detected". If you click resolve, it comes up with "Problems have occurred while attempting to fix the cryptographic errors". I've tried fixes for cryptographic errors too, including re-registering the DLLs, and removing (renaming) c:\windows\system32\catroot2.

I tried installing IE7 SP2, but that failed too "Setup could not verify the integrity of the file Update.inf. Make sure the Cryptographic service is running on the computer". It is.

Has anyone any idea what might be going on ?

Thanks,
Darzil

I hav the same prob!
please giv some help!
I think its the after effects of a virus!
No settings on xp gets saved
cant use the update page since activx controls dont get installed
cant install the latest ie8 nor xp sp 3!