Cannot install Updated Flash Player

[ColorOfWater]

I've tried several times without success to update my Adobe Flash Player software to version 11.7.700.169. Here's what happens: Whenever I need to use Flash Player, I am told my current version is "vulnerable" and automatically connected with the Adobe installation page. I click on "Download Now," and  a rectangle appears that says, "Preparing installation. Please wait," along with a progress bar. But once the progress bar stops and the rectangle goes away, no Opening dialog box appears. In fact, nothing appears. Does anyone know how I can get past this point or how I might update my Flash Player software another way? Thanks.

I have a ThinkPad T61 laptop with Windows XP Professional 32-bit operating system, and I browse with Firefox 20.0.1.

[pwillener · Accepted solution]

Download and run the offline installer from http://helpx.adobe.com/flash-player/kb/installation-problems-flash-player-windows.html#main-pars_hea... (under the header Progress Bar Hangs).

[ColorOfWater]

Thank you, Pat Willener, MVP. The solution you suggested worked great.