xp/vista not installing programs

[Kizzynick]

I cannot install most programs i download on my windows xp machine, i tried various programs, new older some ive had working previously with no issue now will not reinstall. I did get some to install in safe mode but then would not start up afterwards.
Did a system restore no luck.
Put windows vista on a totally different laptop would install mozzilla but no other programs such as Origin games or spotify.
Seems really weird both computers are doing this.

 

[hang-the-9]

Need more details, a clean Windows setup, install drivers and Windows patches, no other programs install? Need error messages if any, and exactly what happens when you try to install.