This error can happen when access to the Windows Update site is blocked as one or more of the following circumstances are exact:

# A firewall on your PC or local network is interfere with your link to the Windows Update site.

# The Windows Update Web site is mapped to an exact IP address in the HOSTS file on your PC. Microsoft does not advise the apply of entries for the Windows Update Web site in the HOSTS file as the IP addresses for the site can alter. NB: This problem has been reported with Internet development programs (for example TweakMASTER DNS) that can add entries to your HOSTS file without your information.

# The MTU setting on your router is also high/low.

# Proxy server settings are interfering with your connection to the Windows Update site.

# Norton Internet Security 2003 obstruct access.