Windows 2000 Security Update Problem

[Newguyhere]

I started using Firefox several weeks ago because I had read that Internet Explorer had serious vulnerabilies and Microsoft hadn't yet solved them. Prior to that I had used Start | Windows Update every morning to be sure I had the latest Windows 2000 critical updates.

I understand that Microsoft now has critical updates that patch these vulnerabilities. I would like to go back to using Internet Explorer again, but when I use the Start | Windows Update procedure, I get this error message:

[Error number: 0x8DDD0001]

To continue, you must first add this website to your trusted sites in Internet Explorer.

The site cannot determine which updates apply to your computer or display those updates unless you change your security setings to allow ActiveX controls and active scripting. The best way to do this without lowering your security settings is to make this site a trusted website. Your security settings will continue to block potentially harmful ActiveX controls and scripting from other sites but you will be able to get updates.

To make this site a trusted website:

In Internet Explorer, click Tools, and then click Internet Options.

On the Security tab, click the Trusted Sites icon.

Click Sites and under Add this website to the zone, copy and paste these website addresses.

You can only add one address at a time and you must click Add after each one:

http://*.update.microsoft.com

https://*.update.microsoft.com

http://download.windowsupdate.com

Note: The asterisks and different addresses allow your computer to work with the site, no matter how you try to access it from your computer or the Web.

I am able to add https://*.update.microsoft.com, but when I attempt to add the other two I get this error message: " Sites added to this zone must use the https://prefix. This prefix assures a secure connection."

How do I get the latest critical Windows 2000 updates so I can start using Internet Explorer again?

Thanks

[nmX.Memnoch]

I am able to add https://*.update.microsoft.com, but when I attempt to add the other two I get this error message: " Sites added to this zone must use the https://prefix. This prefix assures a secure connection."

When you have the Trusted sites dialog box open, there's an option at the bottom for Require server verification (https:) for all sites in this zone. Uncheck it and you'll be able to add http: sites.