How do I verify access to this directory: C:\programfiles|commonfiles\apple\mobiledevices\support\etc\america\argentina\rio_gallegos. I suddenly cannot upgrade itunes. Itunes tech said that it was a windows problem. I have windows xp.

What version of iTunes do you have? I wouldn't upgrade unless absolutely necessary. However, to answer your question, look at the Security permissions (from Properties) of that path. Which I assume is C:\Program Files\Common Files\etc.... as opposed to what you typed. "So won’t you give this man his wings What a shame To have to beg you to see We’re not all the same What a shame" - Shinedown

When I had problems upgrading, which I didn't realize could pose problems, I contacted itunes and they had me uninstall my previous version. Since I couldn't reinstall, I currently don't have itunes.

I hope you un-istalled Itunes 'properly' using 'Add or Remove Programs' in the Control Panel. If you didn't, try that. Otherwise try Itunes tech support again until you get someone who knows his/her job. And I agree with jennifer that you should stay with the old version unless there is something in the new version that you desperately need.