*reads said thread*
To do a Windows Update, you should have a shortcut (unless you deleted it of course) on your start menu that says "Windows update", do that (minus the latest update for Outlook Express, which is useless).
You said you had spyware issues...
1. get this :
http://www.lavasoftusa.com) (Ad-Aware 6)
2. Run it through and clean anything it comes up with.
3. Get BoostXP from here:
http://www.systweak.com)
4. Run it's "clean junk files" function.
5. Backup Maps and Uninstall Radiant Completely
6. Make sure ALL radiant files have actually been removed.
7. Consider removing the JA SDK too.
8. If you think it might be necessary uninstall JA (backing up saved games and character config files, maps, skins etc).
9. Run the Registry Cleaner from BoostXP
10. Defrag your hard drive.
11. Reinstall (where appropriate): JA, JA SDK, Radiant1.4
12. Load Map and try again :)
P.S. Follow the Radiant Set up CAREFULLY and download the help files too... :)
All the best :)