I've checked some other threads and many people seem to have issues with fully installing the launcher and downloading the game but not being able to open the launcher/log in.

I can't even get the launcher to install. I had no problems installing on my desktop, but my laptop hangs up bad. I've tried deleting everything and doing a clean install several times. I've tried everything I've seen for launcher not launching issues (checked internet options, checked the compatibility settings, checked Windows Firewall [not installed enough to even allow me to make an exception] not sure how to make exceptions in MSE). I go through all the installation crap (install prereqs, agree to EULA, all that) and eventually I get to where the launcher shows me a big progress bar labeled "Updating" and then it loads about half way and stops forever like in this picture.

Any ideas?