Problem Overview
QuickBooks Error 1642 is a Windows Installer (MSI) error that occurs during installation, update, or repair of QuickBooks. This error indicates that the Windows Installer service encountered a fatal error while processing the installation package.
Common Symptoms
- Installation fails with error code 1642
- Windows Installer stops responding
- Installation rollback occurs
- MSI package cannot be processed
- Setup cannot access required resources
Affected Components
- Windows Installer service
- MSI installation packages
- System registry entries
- Temporary installation folders
- QuickBooks installation cache
Quick Resolution
- Restart Windows Installer service
- Clear MSI cache files
- Run installer as Administrator
- Use QuickBooks Clean Install Tool
- Check system event logs
Step-by-Step Solution
The Windows Installer service manages MSI package installations. Restarting it can resolve temporary issues causing Error 1642.
- Press Windows Key + R to open Run dialog
- Type services.msc and press Enter
- Find Windows Installer in the services list
- Right-click and select Restart
- If restart is not available, select Stop then Start
Note: If you cannot restart the Windows Installer service, you may need to run the Services console as Administrator.
Corrupted MSI cache files can cause Error 1642. Clearing the cache forces Windows Installer to recreate these files.
- Press Windows Key + R
- Type %windir%\Installer and press Enter
- This opens the Windows Installer cache folder
- Close any open applications
- Delete all files in this folder (you may need admin permissions)
- Restart your computer and try installing QuickBooks again
Important: Deleting the Installer cache may affect other applications. Only proceed if you're experiencing installation issues with QuickBooks.
An outdated version of Windows Installer may not properly handle the QuickBooks MSI package.
- Visit the Microsoft Download Center
- Search for "Windows Installer Redistributable"
- Download the latest version for your Windows version
- Install the updated Windows Installer
- Restart your computer
- Try installing QuickBooks again
// Latest Windows Installer versions:
Windows 10/11: Version 5.0 or later
Windows 8.1: Version 5.0
Windows 7: Version 4.5
The QuickBooks Clean Install Tool completely removes QuickBooks components and performs a clean installation, bypassing many MSI-related issues.
- Download the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool from Intuit's website
- Run the tool as Administrator
- Follow the prompts to remove all QuickBooks components
- Restart your computer when prompted
- Install QuickBooks from a fresh download
Success Tip: The Clean Install Tool removes program files, registry entries, and user data, eliminating conflicts from previous installations that may cause MSI errors.
Windows Event Logs provide detailed information about MSI installation failures that can help identify the specific cause of Error 1642.
- Press Windows Key + R
- Type eventvwr.msc and press Enter
- Navigate to Windows Logs > Application
- Look for errors with source "MsiInstaller" around the time of the failed installation
- Note the detailed error message for specific troubleshooting
// Common Event Log entries for Error 1642:
Product: QuickBooks -- Error 1642
Windows Installer encountered an error
Fatal error during installation
MSI package failure
Installation Preparation Guide
Windows Installer Settings
Ensure Windows Installer is set to automatic startup, has proper permissions, and logging is enabled for detailed error information.
Permission Solutions
Verify your user account has administrative privileges and full control over Program Files, Windows Installer, and temp directories.
System Cleanup
Use Disk Cleanup tool, clear temporary files, remove old installation folders, and clean registry entries from previous installations.
Download Verification
Verify the integrity of your QuickBooks installer file. Redownload if necessary to ensure the MSI package is not corrupted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Error 1642 and other MSI errors?
Error 1642 is a generic MSI failure that indicates the Windows Installer couldn't complete the installation process. Unlike more specific errors that point to particular issues (like permissions or missing files), Error 1642 is a catch-all for various MSI-related problems. It often requires checking Windows Event Logs for more specific details about what caused the failure.
Can antivirus software cause Error 1642?
Yes, antivirus software is a common cause of Error 1642. Security programs may interfere with the Windows Installer service or block it from accessing necessary system resources. They might also quarantine or block MSI packages they mistakenly identify as threats. Temporarily disabling your antivirus during QuickBooks installation often resolves Error 1642.
How can I verify if my Windows Installer is working correctly?
To verify Windows Installer functionality, try installing a different MSI package (like a small free utility). If other installations also fail, the issue is with your Windows Installer service. You can also check the service status in Services.msc, verify its startup type is set to "Manual" (not "Disabled"), and check Event Viewer for any related error messages.
Is it safe to delete the Windows Installer cache?
Generally, it is safe to delete the Windows Installer cache, but with some considerations. The cache contains installation information for repair and modification operations. After clearing it, you may need original installation media to modify or repair other applications. However, for resolving Error 1642 with QuickBooks, clearing the cache is a recommended troubleshooting step that typically doesn't cause significant issues with other programs.