What is Windows Installer?
The Windows Installer is an application included in the Windows Operating System, which is designed to ensure programs install and uninstall correctly on your PC. It works by ensuring all the files and everything else necessary for the program to work are installed in the correct place and also checks for compatibility with other applications and files already on your system. All Microsoft programs are designed to work with the Windows Installer, however, some third party applications come with their own installer and these may occasionally cause problems. Applications that use the Windows Installer are packaged in an MSI format, or Microsoft Installer, and are known as .msi files.What problems am I likely to encounter with Windows Installer?
If an application does not install correctly or there are problems with installation, some of the most common error messages are as follows:
"The Windows Installer Service could not be accessed"
"Windows Installer Service could not be started"
"Could not start the Windows Installer service on Local Computer. Error 5: Access is denied."
What causes Windows Installer Errors?
Sometimes errors with installation may happen because the Windows Installer is faulty or not working properly. Try re-registering the service and see if it helps. To do this:
Go to Start and Run
Type in msiexec/unreg and press enter
Again, go to Start and Run
Type in msiexec/regserver and press enter
This un-registers and then re-registers the Windows Installer and may solve the problem.
Sometimes these errors occur because the Windows Installer service itself has somehow become disabled on your computer. To rectify this:
Go to Start and Run
Type in services.msc and press enter
Double click on Windows Installer
If the value in the Startup type is set to Disabled, change to Manual.
If this is what's causing the problem, it will now be rectified.
Other times the problem may be caused by applications that are manufactured by vendors other than Microsoft. Microsoft recommends all program makers integrate msi files into their software so the application can run through the Windows Installer. Unfortunately not all vendors comply with this and it can lead to problems, such as compatibility issues or damaged installation files.
Viruses, malware and other registry errors can also cause problems with the Windows Installer. This is why it's vital to keep your system clean and free from malware at all times.
Always use a good anti-virus and keep it updated with all the latest definitions to protect your PC from threats. An anti-spyware program is also an essential piece of software and used regularly this will remove spyware and adware from your machine. If left, this malicious software may do further damage to your system, such as corrupting registry values and causing freezes, crashes, or even system failures. Always keep all security software up to date with definitions; set them to download and install automatically if at all possible.
Another item of software that will greatly improve your computer's performance and help prevent errors and damage occurring is a registry cleaner. This is an application designed to scan the Windows Registry, searching for corrupt and obsolete data stored within the registry. Any problems found will automatically be repaired or deleted, keeping the registry clean and error-free, which is vital for a smooth performance.
