Windows update service not working

there is a simple solution for this problem.
1. in your windows up date settings change it to never install windows update (not recommended)
2. then change it back to your previous setting
3. problem solved

The solution in this thread pertains to the HP preinstall which is an inherently corrupt install to begin with, larded with sponsored bloatware and useless duplicate utilities which have much better versions built into Win7. This huge load of crapware throttles Win7 native performance, which is why most tech enthusiasts won't even consider running it but instead Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7.