I think I might be able to help. I've been having the Windows update problem from start on my desktop (Vista Business) and my laptop (Home Premium). After much digging I realised that this was a dual problem. Partly it is a Vista problem but also it's a problem with the ADSL modem/router.
Bear with me because I'm not a techie by any stretch of the imagination, BUT, both my machines now handle the Windows Updates with no problems.
Here's what I did:
1. Go to
DrTCP windows tcp tuning and tweaking - dslreports.com download the program and run the 2000/XP version. The TCP Receive Window will be blank, leave it that way. In the MTU box (bottom right) enter 1400 then save and exit.
2. Reboot the computer and modem/router...