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Fix problems that block programs from being installed or removed


View products that this article applies to.

The Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter helps you automatically repair issues when you're blocked from installing or removing programs. It also fixes corrupted registry keys.

First, you'll need to download the troubleshooter.

Download troubleshooter

If you see the File Download box when you start downloading, select Run or Open.

The troubleshooter provides steps for you to follow. If a program isn't listed in the uninstall options, you'll be asked for that program's product code. To access the code, you'll need a tool for reading MSI files—which is typically available to IT professionals. You'll find the product code in the property table of the MSI file.

What it fixes

The troubleshooter helps fix problems that:

  • Corrupt registry keys on 64-bit operating systems.
  • Corrupt registry keys that control the update data.
  • Prevent new programs from being installed.
  • Prevent existing programs from being completely uninstalled or updated.
  • Block you from uninstalling a program through Add or Remove Programs (or Programs and Features) in Control Panel.

If you're trying to remove malware, you can use Windows Security (or another antivirus tool), or you can use the Windows Malicious Software Removal tool.

Runs on

  • Windows 10
  • Windows 8.1
  • Windows 8
  • Windows 7

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Keywords: corrupted registry keys, programs cannot be installed or uninstalled, troubleshooter

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Article Info
Article ID : 17588
Revision : 52
Created on : 10/9/2020
Published on : 10/9/2020
Exists online : False
Views : 466