| Error Number: | Error 1618 |
| Error Name: | Windows Installer Error Code 1618 |
| Error Description: | Error 1618: Windows Installer has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience. |
| Developer: | Microsoft Corporation |
| Software: | Windows Installer |
| Applies to: | Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 |
Symptoms of Error 1618
- Hi Guyz Today im show youHow to fix Java Installer Download Failed / Error on windows 10Its very simple to fix this, just download the Offline InstallationLi.
- Keith, I have found the 1618 errors to be far more prevalent for Windows 10 deployments. What I would like to know are methods for resolving 1618 errors caused.
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- 'Error 1618' appears and crashes the active program window.
- Your PC frequently crashes with Error 1618 when running the same program.
- “Windows Installer Error Code 1618” is displayed.
- Windows runs sluggishly and responds slowly to mouse or keyboard input.
- Your computer periodically “freezes” for a few seconds at a time.
Error 1618 isn’t unique to Java. It is an error from Microsoft Installer (.msi) stating that another.msi is currently being processed. You see, the Microsoft Installer, msiexec.exe, can only process one installation at a time. This error will be encountered when one MSI is attempted to be installed while another is currently processing.
These 1618 error messages can appear during program installation, while a Microsoft Corporation-related software program (eg. Windows Installer) is running, during Windows startup or shutdown, or even during the installation of the Windows operating system. Keeping track of when and where your 1618 error occurs is a critical piece of information in troubleshooting the problem.
Causes of Error 1618
- Corrupt download or incomplete installation of Windows Installer software.
- Corruption in Windows registry from a recent Windows Installer-related software change (install or uninstall).
- Virus or malware infection that has corrupted Windows system files or Windows Installer-related program files.
- Another program maliciously or mistakenly deleted Windows Installer-related files.
Runtime Errors such as “Error 1618” can be caused by a variety of factors, so it is important that you troubleshoot each of the possible causes to prevent it from recurring.
Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP and 2000
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Runtime Errors Knowledgebase
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Java Error Code 1618 Windows 10
Below is a list of troubleshooting steps to resolve your Error 1618 problems. These troubleshooting steps get progressively more difficult and time consuming, so we strongly recommend attempting them in ascending order to avoid unnecessary time and effort.
Please Note: Click the [ ] image to expand the troubleshooting instructions for each step below. You can also click the [ ] image to hide the instructions as you proceed through each step.
Step 1: Repair Registry Entries Associated with Error 1618 |
Manually editing the Windows registry to remove invalid Error 1618 keys is not recommended unless you are PC service professional. Incorrectly editing your registry can stop your PC from functioning and create irreversible damage to your operating system. In fact, one misplaced comma can prevent your PC from booting entirely! Because of this risk, we recommend using a registry cleaner to assist with this process. Using a registry cleaner automates the process of finding invalid registry entries, missing file references (like the one causing your Windows Installer Error Code 1618 error), and broken links within the registry. A backup is automatically created before each scan, with the ability to undo any changes in a single click, protecting you against the possibility of PC damage. As a Microsoft Silver Partner, we provide software that can assist you in removing these issues: Caution: Unless you an advanced PC user, we DO NOT recommend editing the Windows registry manually. Using Registry Editor incorrectly can cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall Windows. We do not guarantee that problems resulting from the incorrect use of Registry Editor can be solved. Use Registry Editor at your own risk. To manually repair your Windows registry, first you need to create a backup by exporting a portion of the registry related to Error 1618 (eg. Windows Installer):
The next steps in manually editing your registry will not be discussed in this article due to the high risk of damaging your system. If you would like to learn more about manual registry editing, please see the links below. We do not claim any responsibility for the results of the actions taken from the content linked below - complete these tasks at your own risk. Windows XP Windows 7 Windows Vista |
Step 2: Conduct a Full Malware Scan of Your PC |
There is a chance that your 1618 error could be related to a malware infection on your PC. These malicious intruders can damage, corrupt, or even delete Runtime Errors-related files. Furthermore, there's a possibility that the 1618 error you are experiencing is related to a component of the malicious program itself. Tip: If you do not already have a malware protection program installed, we highly recommend using Emsisoft Anti-Malware (download here). They offer a malware removal guarantee that is not offered by other security software. |
Step 3: Clean Out Your System Junk (Temporary Files and Folders) With Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) |
Over time, your computer accumulates junk files from normal web surfing and computer use. If this junk isn't occasionally cleaned out, it can cause Windows Installer to respond slowly or provides an 1618 error, possibly due to file conflicts or an overloaded hard drive. Cleaning up these temporary files with Disk Cleanup might not only solve your 1618 error, but can also dramatically speed up the performance of your PC. Tip: Although Disk Cleanup is a wonderful built-in tool, it will not completely clean up all of the temporary files on your computer. Other programs that you frequently use such Microsoft Office, Firefox, Chrome, Live Messenger, and hundreds of other programs are not cleaned up with Disk Cleanup (including some Microsoft Corporation programs). Because of the shortcomings of the Windows Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) tool, we highly recommend using a specialized hard drive cleanup / privacy protection software to clean up your entire computer. As a Microsoft Silver Partner, we provide software that can assist you in cleaning up your temporary files: How to run Disk Cleanup (cleanmgr) (Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10):
|
Step 4: Update Your PC Device Drivers |
1618 errors can be related to corrupt or outdated device drivers. Drivers can work one day, and suddenly stop working the next day, for a variety of reasons. The good news is that you can often update the device driver to fix the Error 1618 problem. Finding the exact driver for your Error 1618-related hardware device can be extremely difficult, even directly on the Microsoft Corporation or related manufacturer's website. Even if you are experienced at finding, downloading, and manually updating drivers, the process can still be very time consuming and extremely irritating. Installing the wrong driver, or simply an incompatible version of the right driver, can make your problems even worse. Because of the time and complexity involved in updating drivers, we highly recommend using a driver update software. A driver update tool ensures that you have correct driver versions for your hardware, and also creates a backup of your current drivers before making any changes. Maintaining a driver backup provides you with the security of knowing that you can rollback any driver to a previous version (if necessary). As a Microsoft Silver Partner, we provide software that can assist you in updating these drivers: Please Note: Your Error 1618 may not be related to hardware driver problems, but it's always a good idea to ensure all of your PC device drivers are up-to-date to maximize PC performance. |
Step 5: Utilize Windows System Restore to 'Undo' Recent System Changes |
Windows System Restore allows you to 'go back in time' with your PC to help fix your Error 1618 problems. System Restore can return your PC's system files and programs back to a time when everything was working fine. This can potentially help you avoid hours of troubleshooting headaches associated with 1618 errors. Please Note: Using System Restore will not affect your documents, pictures, or other data. To use System Restore (Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10):
|
Step 6: Uninstall and Reinstall the Windows Installer Program Associated with Error 1618 |
If your 1618 error is related to a specific program, reinstalling Windows Installer-related software could be the answer. Instructions for Windows 7 and Windows Vista:
Instructions for Windows XP:
Instructions for Windows 8:
After you have successfully uninstalled your Error 1618-associated program (eg. Windows Installer), reinstall the program according to the Microsoft Corporation instructions. Tip: If you are positive that your 1618 error is related to a specific Microsoft Corporation program, uninstalling and reinstalling your Error 1618-related program will likely be the solution to your problem. |
Step 7: Run Windows System File Checker ('sfc /scannow') |
System File Checker is a handy tool included with Windows that allows you scan for and restore corruptions in Windows system files (including those related to Error 1618). To run System File Checker (Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10):
|
Step 8: Install All Available Windows Updates |
Microsoft is constantly updating and improving Windows system files that could be associated with Error 1618. Sometimes resolving your Runtime Errors problems may be as simple as updating Windows with the latest Service Pack or other patch that Microsoft releases on an ongoing basis. To check for Windows Updates (Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, and 10):
|
Step 9: Perform a Clean Installation of Windows |
Caution: We must emphasize that reinstalling Windows will be a very time-consuming and advanced task to resolve Error 1618 problems. To avoid data loss, you must be sure that you have backed-up all of your important documents, pictures, software installers, and other personal data before beginning the process. If you are not currently backing up your data, you need to do so immediately (download a highly-recommended backup solution [MyPCBackup.com Download]) to protect yourself from permanent data loss. This step is your final option in trying to resolve your Error 1618 issue. Reinstalling Windows will erase everything from your hard drive, allowing you to start again with a fresh system. Furthermore, a clean install of Windows will also quickly clean out any and all 'junk' that has accumulated over the normal usage of your computer. Please Note: If 1618 errors still persist after a clean install of Windows, your Runtime Errors problem MUST be hardware related. If that is the case, then it is likely you will need to replace the associated hardware causing the 1618 error. |
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Operating System Information
1618 error messages can occur in any of the following Microsoft Windows operating systems:
- Windows 10
- Windows 8
- Windows 7
- Windows Vista
- Windows XP
- Windows ME
- Windows 2000
Are You Still Experiencing Error 1618 Issues?
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About The Author:Jay Geater is the President and CEO of Solvusoft Corporation, a global software company focused on providing innovative utility software. He is a lifelong computer geek and loves everything related to computers, software, and new technology.
Browse Errors in Alphabetical Order:
‘Multitasking means screwing up several things at once’
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Having its pros and cons, Skype is a must-have tool these days – we rely on it heavily to achieve effective communication, and the app tends to serve this purpose well.
But what if Skype installation fails thanks to the mysterious error 1618? Does this mean the good old app is forever beyond your reach?
Of course not. The problem in question can be easily resolved if you know what to do.
Why Does Skype Error 1618 Crop Up?
The issue in question appears when you are trying to perform several installs at once.
For example, if you can see the 1618 error code when installing Skype:
- you might have accidentally started Skype installation twice;
- another installation process is being executed at the same moment;
- your Windows 10 is installing updates.
Therefore, to keep the error message ‘Another installation is already in progress’ at bay, you should:
- be careful when installing programs;
- avoid parallel installations;
- wait for the current downloads/installations to complete before proceeding with another install.
If your Skype keeps having issues despite all the precautions above, move on to explore our solutions to the persistent 1618 error.
Skype 1618 Error Fixes
Here are our top 12 tips on how to eliminate the Skype 1618 installation problem:
- End the Microsoft Installer Process
- Run Skype as an Administrator
- Install Windows Updates
- Edit Your Registry
- Run a Full Malware Scan of Your System
- Fix Your Drivers
- Purge Your PC of Junk and Other Speed-Reducing Issues
- Restart Windows Installer
- Re-register Windows Installer Files
- Change Group Policy Settings
- Uninstall Skype Completely
- Reinstall Your Windows
You are welcome to choose the method you like most and follow the steps to fix the 1618 error.
Well, it is time to begin our journey. But first, you should perform a backup.
Indeed, we strongly recommend you to back up your personal files before launching an attack on the error in question.
As a precaution, use any of the following tools to your advantage:
- Portable backup devices (e.g. flash drives, compact disks, etc.)
- Cloud solutions (e.g. OneDrive, Dropbox, Google Drive, etc.)
- Special backup software (e.g. Auslogics BitReplica)
Besides, we guess it would not hurt to create a system restore point:
- Windows logo key + S -> Type restore into the Search box -> Create a restore point
- System Properties -> Create -> Describe the restore point you want to create -> Create
You can always go back to it if things do not go as planned:
- Start -> Control Panel -> System and Security -> File History
- Recovery -> Open System Restore -> Next
- Select the restore point you want to return to-> Next -> Finish -> Yes
By the way, you can use the instructions above to roll back your PC to the latest working restore point – that will undo recent system changes. Try out this manoeuvre as it is reported to be capable of fixing the 1618 Skype error.
1. End the Microsoft Installer Process
To tell the truth, a little patience is required when it comes to installing programs on your computer: for example, you are supposed to proceed with a Skype install only when no other installation processes are being executed. However, we understand you might need to use the app without any delay. In such a case, you will have to end the msiexec.exe process manually.
For this purpose, use Windows Task Manager:
- Ctrl+Alt+Del -> Task Manager
- Processes -> select the MSIEXEC.EXE process -> Click End Process
- Install Skype
Has the issue been resolved? If not, hurry up to give the following method a try.
2. Run Skype as an Administrator
If the error 1618 prevents Skype installation from being a success, you can try the following workaround:
Skype setup file -> Right-click on it -> Run as administrator
Did it work?
If you still encounter the ‘Another installation is already in progress’ message, keep working your way down.
3. Install Windows Updates
If your PC is acting weird (which includes generating the 1618 installation error), your system might need updating.
Make use of the built-in Windows Update feature:
- Windows logo key + I -> Update and Security -> Check for updates
- Let the available updates come through
- Wait for the installation process to complete
- Restart your PC
Now try to install Skype on your computer. If the frustrating 1618 error code is still here, consider tweaking your Windows registry.
4. Edit Your Registry
Whatever it takes, be extremely careful when editing your registry – even a minor mistake can damage your system and cause your PC to go haywire.
Therefore, we strongly recommend you to back up your registry before editing it:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type regedit.exe into the Run box-> Enter
- Registry Editor -> Select the registry keys and/or subkeys you want to back up -> File > Export ->Choose the location and name for the backup file -> Save
Now you can perform the necessary changes:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘regedit’ into the Run box
- Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESoftwareMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionInstaller
- Find and delete PendingFileRenameOperations
- Move to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftUpdates
- Search for the UpdateExeVolatile entry -> Double-click on it -> Set it to 0
That is it.
If the Skype installation issue persists, proceed to the following method.
If you feel there is something wrong with your system after the registry tweaks, restore the Windows Registry:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘regedit.exe’ into the Run box-> Enter -> Registry Editor
- File -> Import -> Import Registry File -> Locate the necessary backup file -> Open
5. Run a Full Malware Scan of Your System
The error code 1618 can be a symptom of a malware infection. Thus, do not hesitate to conduct a full system scan. Your main goal is to detect the malicious intruders and banish them from your PC.
For this purpose, you can use:
Windows Defender
Windows Defender is a built-in security solution that can be of immense help in tackling malware issues and protecting your system.
To run a full system scan with Windows Defender, do the following:
Settings -> Update & Security -> Windows Defender -> Open Windows Defender -> Full
Your main antivirus solution
If you use a third-party antivirus as a main security solution, let it have a go at beating malicious software.
A special anti-malware tool
Looking for an ultimate triumph? If so, make sure your main antivirus has scanned every nook and cranny of your Windows 10 – even a tiny omission can result in a serious damage.
The problem is, some malicious threats are cunning enough to steal a march on your antivirus. Fortunately, it has steadfast allies that are always ready to help it out: for example, Auslogics Anti-Malware will be delighted to annihilate the threats your main security solution has missed.
6. Fix Your Drivers
Driver issues are brilliant at wreaking havoc on your computer. For instance, they can easily turn Skype installation into a nightmare. Therefore, mending your drivers might eliminate the annoying 1618 error code and give the green light to a successful Skype install.
In this regard, you can:
Use Driver Verifier to track down the misbehaving drivers
Start menu -> Type verifier -> Enter
Error Code 1618 Java Installation
Make use of Device Manager
Win + X -> Device Manager -> Locate your devices and update / reinstall their drivers
Troubleshoot your drivers manually
If you wish to have everything under control, feel free to update your drivers by yourself. To do so, visit your manufacturers’ websites, download the latest drivers for your device models and install them on your computer.
Use special software to fix all your drivers
Updating your drivers one by one can be rather a tedious business. You can save your time by using a special tool, e.g. Auslogics Driver Updater, to fix them all in one click.
7. Purge Your PC of Junk and Other Speed-Reducing Issues
If you wish to enjoy Skype calls, make sure your PC is not messy before installing the app. Otherwise, you may run into rather dispiriting installation issues.
Here is what you can do to clean your machine up:
Remove temporary setup files
Temporary setup files that certain apps place on your PC can cause Skype installation to fail.
To delete them, go this way:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘temp’ into the Run box-> Enter
- Delete everything from the Temp folder
- Go to C:WindowsTemp -> Delete everything from this folder
Run Disk Cleanup
Java Setup Error Code 1618
A messy hard drive is another possible reason for installation failures.
To declutter your disk, utilize the built-in Disk Cleanup solution:
- Win + R -> Type ‘cleanmgr’ into the Run box -> Enter -> Disk Cleanup
- Disk Cleanup for (C:) -> Clean up system files -> Select the items you do not need -> OK
Run System File Checker
You might be unable to install Skype due to corrupt or missing system files on your computer. Lucky for you, Windows 10 provides for the possibility of fixing them automatically.
What you need is to run System File Checker:
- Start -> Enter Command Prompt -> right-click Command Prompt -> select Run as administrator -> Enter DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth -> Enter sfc /scannow
- Wait for the system scan to finish -> Reboot your computer
Use a special diagnostic tool
There are lots of issues that can spoil your PC’s performance in general and Skype installation in particular.
Among them are:
- junk files (e.g. leftover update files, unneeded cache, unused error logs, temporary system and user files, etc.)
- corrupt keys and invalid entries in the Windows registry
- non-optimal Windows settings
You can resolve them manually or use a special solution, such as Auslogics BoostSpeed, to do that in a fast and safe way.
If using the tips above has not helped you eliminate the error 1618, now is the time to deal with the Windows Installer service.
8. Restart Windows Installer
Reportedly, Windows Installer can be the main culprit of the Skype 1618 crisis.
In such a case, disabling and enabling the Windows Installer service is an effective fix:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘services.msc’ into the Run box-> Enter
- Search for the Windows Installer service -> Double-click on it -> Properties
- Startup type -> Disabled -> Save changes
- Restart your computer
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘services.msc’ into the Run box-> Enter
- Startup type -> Manual -> Save changes
- Restart your computer
Can you install Skype on your PC now?
If not, here is another trick related to Windows Installer.
9. Re-register Windows Installer Files
If restarting Windows Installer has been to no avail, try re-registering its files.
Here is how to do that:
- Windows logo key + X -> Command Prompt (Admin)
- Insert the following:
msiexec /unregister
msiexec /regserver - Wait for the commands to execute
- Close Command Prompt
- Reboot your computer
- Try to install Skype
No luck so far? No worries, the next fix may turn out to be really helpful.
10. Change Group Policy Settings
Changing your group policy settings may prove an effective solution to the Skype error 1618.
To perform the changes in question, follow the instructions below:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type ‘gpedit.msc’ into the Run box -> OK
- Computer Configuration -> Windows Settings -> Security Settings -> Local Policies -> User Rights Assignment
- Debug programs -> Double-click on this option
- Locate the Administrators account on the list -> If it is absent, click Add User or Group and the Admin account
- Apply -> OK
11. Uninstall Skype Completely
If Skype has ever been present on your PC, chances are the app has not been uninstalled completely: some leftover files may still remain in your system. They are supposed to be removed – otherwise, the installation of your new Skype is set up for failure.
To uninstall Skype completely, perform the following edits:
- Windows logo key + R -> Type regedit.exe into the Run box-> Enter -> Registry Editor
- Edit -> Find -> Type Skype into the Find box -> Find Next
- Right-click on the search results -> Delete them
12. Reinstall Your Windows
Reinstalling your Windows 10 is a great opportunity to start from scratch: actually, bugs are supposed to give your system a wide berth after that procedure.
The expendables 2 videogame download. Nonetheless, a clean install of your Windows 10 is a kind of escapade that might end in tears – the drama is, it causes your personal files to disappear for good. Thus, make sure you have backed up your important data to avoid painful losses.
We hope there is nothing that can prevent you from installing Skype on your PC now.
Do you have any ideas or questions regarding this issue?
We are looking forward to your comments! Can private youtube videos be downloaded.