Windows 7 SP1

Ok, so I am new around these parts but I have a reason for singing up here. I have a Dell Laptop with a bit of problems and I think I know how to proceed but would like to get some feedback from forum members before I go spend a lot of time repairing the laptop. First a statement of the problem: the security software won't work becuase Win 7 SP1 is not installed. What have I done: 1) Isolated the laptop from the network so I don't have any hackers; 2) downloaded SP1 32bit and 64 bit versions. What I think I need to do is to install SP1 32 bit version. What is your opinion of my plan? I hope that I do not need to re-image the entire hard drive.

All sounds very sensible. SP1 install should not cause any problems but if you want to play really (and also examine a good backup strategy for future regular use) I would look at some imaging software which will enable you to secure your entire system drive and from which you may make a complete recovery with no loss of op sys, installed software, user configurations etc. I rely completely on Acronis True Image and you can get a full working trial copy from here:

Complete hard disk recovery solution, backup, drive copy, clone and image computer software

Yesterday morning I tried to install the 32 bit version of SP 1 and the OS said that the version was not compatible so I tried to install the 64 bit version and it told me to use the 32 bit version. Please help. I am not adverse to doing the work if I have forum members telling me what I need to do.

Have you tried this already?
UPDATE READINESS TOOL.
Download and install the correct system readiness tool prior to installing SP1.
System Update Readiness Tool for 32bit (x86)
System Update Readiness Tool for 64bit (x64)

Thats a good idea I should run the readiness tool first. The laptop runs on windows 7 and its not an itanium processor so i should need the 32 bit version rather than the 64 bit version? If I am not ready for the installation will the tool tell me what I need to do to get hte laptop ready? Perhaps that is the problem, its not ready for the installation of SP1.