Windows Update is broken for some Windows 7 users

I also thought I would pass on my experience in correcting the big X on the Windows Update.

Running Win 7 Pro and I have full administrator rights. First, I ran the Microsoft troubleshooter for this problem and it corrected two problems. However, that didn't fix the big X.

There is no Auto Time function in my Date and Time. However, I was able to set the date to 12/2 and then, the update function was available. However, when I ran the check for updates, it wouldn't complete. It gave me one of those 80..... errors. I then set Windows Update to Never check for updates and I was able to run the check for updates. It found four updates and installed them. When I rebooted, the system was still set at 12/2. I ran the check for updates and none were found. I then changed the date to 12/30 (today). The Windows Updater was available and a check for updates found none.

The most easier fix is to change the expiration date in the .xml file of "authcab.cab". Keep in mind that the .xml is protected, but a text editor with administrator rights would write the file successfully.

Path:
Windows/SoftwareDistribution/AuthCabs/authcab.cab