When I try to update Java, my windows installer tells me that "The system administator (me) has policies to prevent this installation". The policies are set to none so it wont recognise what I have set. Any ideas anyone?

I would suggest uninstalling all previous Java software then load the latest.

Thanks for the suggestion but I have tried this several times and it will not let me install Java. I have had to go to a system restore point to get my 1.4.0 version back. There are no restriction policies set in "set programme access and defaults" file.I have tried loading version 1.5.0 update 10 with all firewalls off, offline download etc. and it is now on my desktop but I cant install it!!! Any ideas?

I would suggest running this Registry Cleaner:

http://www.hoverdesk.net/freeware.htm

But before you do use this tool to completely backup your registry:

http://www.larshederer.homepage.t-online.de/erunt/