Internet Explorer 8 Won't Load Plug-ins/ActiveX

[NinjaRicer]

If you read the title, you know my situation. I can't get into Microsoft Update or Windows Update. Flash won't load, and I can't reinstall it because I can't run ActiveX controls. I've already tinkered with the security settings and enabled all ActiveX controls, but it still won't load.

[Kazemagic]

Try install firefox first if you can.Then run firefox and download IE8.then uniinstall firefox if you want

[YuMeng]

Try as muaan said install Firefox, reinstall IE8 and ActiveX .If can't, try this addon IE Tab for Firefox.

[NinjaRicer]

Reinstalled. I use Firefox as my main browser, but I would still like to be able to visit Microsoft Update.

[LittleM]

May I ask what OS you are running NinjaRacer?

I was thinking about installing IE8, but if there are a lot of problems with it I may wait till later. My OS is Win XP SP3 with everything updated.

Have you tried uninstalling IE8 and then reinstalling. Here's the link for instructions on how to uninstall IE8.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/957700

Here's the link for how to solve installation problems.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/949220

[Raymond]

Have you tried resetting Internet Explorer's settings?
Tools > Internet Options > Advanced tab > press the Reset button

[NinjaRicer]

I'm running the same as you, LittleM. Windows XP SP3 x86. Haven't tried resetting yet. Will do.

Update: Actually made it worse >_>