i've tried many many times to install service pack 2. at first i was
doing it through automatic updates from my desktop to install and
everytime in the middle of the installation i get an error saying
"access is denied" so i called dell tech support, they weren't much
help. i called microsoft support, the guy had me try in safe mode, i
got an error saying "Service pack 2 setup could not backup registry key
HKCR\DxDiag.DxDiagProvider to file
C:\WINDOWS\$NtServicePackUninstall$\reg00177. 5: access is denied" so
then he made me put in the windows xp cd, check for errors (i think)
found a error in the volume, repaired that, tried again in safe mode,
got the same error as last time, rebooted, tried to get onto my regular
desktop and all my icons were blank so i restored back to a previous
date and thats it. I was told to call back tomorrow if it didn't work
but i'm seeing if i can get any help online.