The problem you are experiencing is generally due to one of the following three reasons:
No Internet connection - please ensure you are connected to the Internet when attempting to perform a Smart Update.
Firewall / Proxy Server blockage - you may need to temporarily disable your firewall or proxy server to perform Smart Update, as these could interpret the Spyware Doctor's update function as a malicious process. If possible, place Spyware Doctor's 'update.exe' on your firewall or proxy server's 'Allowed Processes' list. This will allow you to run future Smart Updates with your firewall or proxy server enabled.
Virus Scanner interference - you may need to disable your virus scanner temporarily to perform a Smart Update, as these could interpret the download as an attempt to infect your computer with a virus. Please remember to re-enable your Virus Scanner when Smart Update has completed.