SOFTWARE NOT WORKING (by 2 users)

I use Windows Vista Home Premium and Norton 360. My Nikon Software is not working. Everything loaded - I read the book - but when i connect the Nikon D40 camera, the Nikon Transfer opens - 120 photos on card - so I click "transfer" and nothing happens - occasionally the ViewNX program opens but promptly stops working. Both the Nikon Transfer and the ViewNX programs say there are updates but when I try to load the updates they start loading but then stop. The only message is that the download was unsuccessful and I should try later! I like the camera (my first SLR) but if i can't load the photos, it is useless. Can you help please?