Stuck in "checking for updates"

I have two PCs, Dell laptop and desktop, both with windows 7 sp1 and both with the same problem. I've read other post and followed the instructions and nothing helps. Downloaded SURT but it wasn't applicable for my computer. I've stopped the update services, switched to manual and all updates I've been told to download are already on the computer. I tried booting in safe mode, but couldn't see how to check for updates from safe mode. Neither PC is used for internet surfing so if I have to live with it I can, but it's sort of bugging me and I'd like to fix it.

I don't know what else you followed but

Follow these instructions exactly.
First, set Windows Updates to never check for Updates.
Next restart your computer, then install KB3020369, if not installed.
Then install KB3172605.

Windows updates should return to normal. You can then reset your updates to automatically check for updates if desired

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3020369

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3172605

Already tried that. Everything is turned off and when I downloaded the update I got a message that it was already installed on the computer.

Sorry, I misread your post. I'm installing the second update no. I'll let you know how it works out.

It worked! Thanks

You're welcome.

PBCopter, Thank you.

You're welcome and welcome to the forum.

I'm having this issue but cannot fix. I followed pbcopter's instructions but it tells me his files are not applicable to my computer?

pbcopter said:

I don't know what else you followed but

Follow these instructions exactly.
First, set Windows Updates to never check for Updates.
Next restart your computer, then install KB3020369, if not installed.
Then install KB3172605.

Windows updates should return to normal. You can then reset your updates to automatically check for updates if desired

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3020369

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/3172605

Thank you for this, for almost two weeks I have tried everything, and I mean everything. I don't know how I missed this, but thank you, as this was literally the only way to fix the update problem that mysteriously happened this month, and after everything I have done to try and fix it I am amazed that it was so ridiculously simple. I only needed the July/September update, so I am wondering, which kb should I look for to hang onto in case this happens again? And again, thank you!