I have a notice on my Windows Vista Ultimate SP1 computer that updates are available.  But when I try try to update I get the error code 80070057 and I can't update.  My last successful update was 14 April 2009.

Here's a page I found that gives lots of code errors & what they mean. Try searching here for the code you got:

http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/windows/en-us/search.aspx?=&qu=error+codes+on+updating

For one thing your updates they want you to download are not always the best choice. I have my updates set to notify me and allow me to choose. I believe it is the third choice down in your security center. I can tell you from experience never download a hardware update, do these only from the hardware website. Especially bad are updates for graphics cards.

Thanks so much.  I have my computer set to notify me but not download updates.  Maybe it will all correct itself in time.  I have not had any problems previously.

Hi Shell,

I downloaded KB947821 and that seems to have made things work.  I downloaded some help updates but am leaving the others for now as I am not sure they are a good thing or not.  They are the 2007 Microsoft office suite  service pack 2 (SP2)  update for the 2007 microsoft system KB967642 and Business Contact manager for Outlook 2007 Service pack 2 KB957374.  Are these ok to download or are they apt to cause problems?  Thanks so much for your help. 

Windows Vista and Windows Updates: Once you click to open Windows Updates look on the left side for Change Settings and if you want to download and install the Recommended updates then under Recommended updates, select Include recommended updates when downloading, installing, or notifying me about updates check box. I would not include these updates until one sees what they are.

In the XP there are two updates. One is the Express which contains all critical updates and the other is Custom which is those recommended by MS. Also, be sure to look on the left side for any updates that you might need as for Software or Hardware or Driver updates....

Ben David

Thanks for your reply.  KB947821 was what I needed.  But I am holding off on the Microsoft Office Service pace 2 until I hear some of the bugs have been worked out.