Started getting Error 0x8024001D on Microsoft Update last week. Ended up renaming C:\windows\softwaredistribution\DataStore to C:\windows\softwaredistribution\DataStore.poo and that reset Microosft Update. Installed again and I'm back in business. Astonishing lame.
UPDATE: If you're getting error 0x80070057, you can rename c:\windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download to c:\WINDOXP\SoftwareDistribution\Download.poo and all updates will be downloaded and applied again.
Scott Hanselman is a former professor, former Chief Architect in finance, now speaker, consultant, father, diabetic, and Microsoft employee. I am a failed stand-up comic, a cornrower, and a book author.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed herein are my own personal opinions and do not represent my employer's view in any way.