Fixing Problems with the Windows Installer Service

When my computer fails me, I'm not the type of person who will spend any money getting it fixed. Why? Because I like my money and I'm intelligent enough to fix most problems myself. I've been taught how to use the computer since I was in first grade. Over the years I have used many different models and running systems. I wouldn't call myself a computer whiz by any means but when it comes down to figuring out glitches and errors, I have to say I like the challenge. Although frustrating at times it can be exhilarating when you finally figure out what the problem is. Besides, why should I bring my computer to some geek in a 200 square foot store front, who will tell me they can fix it but it will take a week? For what I would be charged I could practically buy myself a new computer.

Fixing computer glitches is not for the inexperienced, easily discouraged, or amateur. Sometimes fixing errors can take several attempts, several hours, or several days. If you're lucky any problems will be easily solved within minutes, but often this is not the case. If you're feeling able and up to the challenge you can fix your computer too. In fact you'll probably be surprised by how simple many of the processes are.

The latest problem I experienced occurred with the Windows ® Installer Service. Somehow the service had become disabled or corrupted and I could no longer install software on my computer. I also believe it had something to do with Microsoft ® Word not being able to open or run. For weeks I used Wordpad to get my work done, but the quality of the program is nothing compared to what Word can do.

For hours, I skimmed through web pages searching for information and downloading updates for my computer. I had originally run into the problem with the Windows ® Installer Service when I was trying to install a wireless internet adapter. The installation of the software was interrupted with a pop up reading "During installation process another error occurred: Windows (R) Installer found. This is an older version of the Windows (R) Installer. Click OK to continue."

So, I click OK to exit the box and then I get "Error 1607: Unable to install InstallShield scripting runtime." By now, I've installed all the proper updates for Windows and Microsoft figuring it should take care of the problem. Wrong again! After retrying installation of the software and watching it fail once again I knew the problem was a bit deeper than I'd originally imagined.

So, how do you fix this kind of problem? First you want to find the Installer Folder in your computers files. On most home systems, the installer folder is hidden and you may have to work some magic before you can view or edit the contents. To find the installer folder:

1. Click Start > Run > and type explorer. Click ok or hit enter.

2. On the toolbar, select Tools > Folder Options.

3. Click the View or Advanced tab and select show hidden files and folders.

4. Select Apply at the bottom of the box and then click OK.

Now that the Installer Folder is visible you need to open it so you can view the contents. Follow these steps:

1. Click Start, select My Computer, and type C:\Windows\Installer in the address bar.

2. Right click on the installer folder and select properties.

3. Click the Security tab and make sure all users, the system, and Administrators have full control. If any box is checked deny uncheck it by clicking allow.

4. Click OK and exit.

Now you have assigned permission for access to the installer files which should solve the problem. Try reinstalling the software or program to see if the solution worked. If it didn't work you will know right away because you will run into the same errors. If installation fails you are most likely running a corrupted version of the Windows ® Installer Service. You will need to uninstall and reinstall the newest version of the Installer available at http://www.microsoft.com.

I thought my computer was running on regular Windows ® XP but when I ran into some issues I actually found out I was using Windows NT/4.0 with XP version 2002 installed on the machine. At first, I tried downloading the Windows ® Installer for XP but it wouldn't install or run, not even manually. I happened by chance to figure out it wasn't the right version. After several tries with the XP version of the Installer I decided to download the NT version. It worked like a charm!

Supposedly, Windows ® XP comes preinstalled with the correct Installer but XP does have glitches that haven't been dealt with. Usually it is just a few settings and controls that need to be tweaked in order to get your system running properly again. If that doesn't solve the problem you may have to reinstall certain programs and tools like the Installer Service.

If you have this same problem, and I'm positive I'm not the only one, try downloading the Windows NT/4.0 version of the Windows ® Installer. Copy and paste this into your address bar to access the download.

Follow download instructions and installation wizard. In case you have to manually begin the installation it is best to save the downloaded installer file to your desktop. Most downloads and installation wizards are on Auto Run Right so you won't have to do anything but click download and follow the instructions on your screen. If you need to manually install the Windows ® Installer, click on the icon of the Installer and select Open. The installer should begin within 5 seconds.

For me, that solved the problem and mysteriously Microsoft ® Word began working again too. In fact, all of the programs that were disabled for weeks are now working properly again. After downloading and installing the new version of the Installer Service your computer should be able to install any software, programs, or devices. If none of these options solves your problem you can search Microsoft.com for more information and specific resolutions.