Cannot install SP1 or any other updates

[jr70895]

I tried installing SP1 and half way thru received error message. Miscrosft suggested updating all computer mfgs updates then to re-try. Did that and again not able to install SP1. It goes 3/4 way running installer then error message. I went to the website that MS has set up for help with Sp1 updates and did everything they suggested with no luck. Now they are telling me to get the Vista Disc that was supplied with the computer and run it and check upgrade when the disc runs.
Now, here is my question since then I have 2 additional updates that will not install. MS tells me that I will not lose any of my data that is currently in documents etc. when I do the upgrade from the disc
I contacted Dell since the computer is only 4 months old and they tell me I will lose all stored data when I run the Vista disc and check upgrade.
I have all data backed up on external harddrive and can re-install them if I have to. Does anyone know if I will lose everything or not?
This is a Dell 1520 Inspirion 4 months old and cannot belive I must reinstall Vista already. Thanks

[renegade600]

first of all, did you go to dells website and get all updates from them? The disc that you got from dell, is it an oem version of vista or a recovery disk? You said you had two additional updates thats not installed, are they from windows? or dell? Did you try going to start, all programs, windows update.

[jr70895]

1)Yes went to Dell and they gave me a link to all updates needed.
2) The disc from dell came with computer and is Vista "reinstallation DVD"
3) yes 2 additional updates from Windows
4) tried start, all programs, windows update.
Both Microsoft and Dell said I need to run the Vista Disc and check "upgrade". With computer in warranty Dell even took over the computer and attempted to install updates but wer not able to.
Microsoft website for SP1 support had me try many things with no luck. Both say run the disc...Hate to but I guess I will- Hate to lose data and have to reinstall virus software etc. MS says no files will be disturbed Dell says I will lose everything...
I would rather not lose it all but I guess I must...Thanks

[renegade600]

well if both dell and microsoft said you need to run the vista disk and check upgrade, then that is what you need to do. If you are afraid of losing data, create a backup of it first, most likely you will be okay but sometimes things happen.