If I download IE8 for XP from http://www.microsoft.com/nl-nl/download/internet-explorer-8-details.aspx it downloads a 16.1 MB file to my harddisk, which I can run. In fact, I did this a month ago to update an old XP machine from IE7 to IE8.
It's quite exceptional that downloading a 16.1 MB file takes 24 hours. Maybe something is wrong with your Internet connection or your antivirus or firewall is blocking something? Then download on another PC, copy it to your USB-stick and run it from there.
Kees
Some home my Windows XP internet explore went from Internet Explore 8 to Internet Explore 6.
I have been trying to reinstall Internet Explore 8 and it has been 'downloading' for about 24 hours.
FYI: I have a Dell Latitude D505 laptop.
Thank you,

Chowhound
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