Problem Overview
QuickBooks Error 1712 occurs when the Windows Installer detects that another installation process is already running on the system. This prevents QuickBooks installation from proceeding until the conflicting process is completed or terminated.
Common Symptoms
- Installation fails with error code 1712
- "Another installation is in progress" message
- Windows Installer is locked
- Installation hangs or freezes
- Cannot start new installations
Common Causes
- Previous installation didn't complete
- Windows Installer service is busy
- Stuck installation processes
- Corrupted installation cache
- System reboot during installation
Quick Resolution
- Restart Windows Installer service
- End stuck installation processes
- Clear installation cache
- Restart computer
- Check for pending reboots
Step-by-Step Solution
A simple restart can resolve many installation conflicts by clearing stuck processes and resetting the Windows Installer service.
- Save all your work and close all applications
- Click Start > Power > Restart
- Wait for your computer to completely restart
- Log back into Windows
- Try installing QuickBooks again
Note: This is the most effective solution for Error 1712 as it clears all temporary locks and resets the Windows Installer service.
Manually restart the Windows Installer service to clear any stuck installation processes.
- 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 unavailable, select Stop then Start
- Try the QuickBooks installation again
Important: Run Services as Administrator if you encounter permission issues when restarting the service.
Manually terminate any stuck installation processes using Task Manager.
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager
- Click on the Processes tab
- Look for any installation-related processes:
- msiexec.exe
- setup.exe
- installer processes
- Select each process and click End Task
- Try installing QuickBooks again
// Common installation processes to check:
msiexec.exe
setup.exe
instaler.exe
QBInstall.exe
QBMaintenanceTool.exe
Clear pending file rename operations that might be blocking the installation.
- Press Windows Key + R
- Type regedit and press Enter
- Navigate to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Session Manager
- Look for PendingFileRenameOperations in the right pane
- If it exists, right-click and select Delete
- Restart your computer and try installation again
Warning: Be careful when editing the registry. Always back up your registry before making changes.
Clear the Windows Installer cache to remove any corrupted installation files.
- Press Windows Key + R
- Type %windir%\Installer and press Enter
- Close any open applications
- Delete all files in this folder (admin permissions required)
- Restart your computer
- Try installing QuickBooks again
Success Tip: After clearing the cache, Windows Installer will recreate necessary files, often resolving Error 1712.
Process Management Guide
Service Management
Manage Windows Installer service, check service status, set startup type to manual, and ensure proper permissions.
Process Monitoring
Use Task Manager, Process Explorer, and command line tools to monitor and manage installation processes.
Cache Cleanup
Clear Windows Installer cache, temporary files, and remove pending operations that block installations.
System Restore
Use System Restore to revert to a point before the installation issue occurred if other methods fail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Windows think another installation is running when it's not?
This typically happens when a previous installation was interrupted or didn't complete properly. The Windows Installer service maintains a global mutex (mutual exclusion object) that prevents multiple installations from running simultaneously. If an installation crashes or is force-closed, this mutex may not be released properly, causing Windows to believe another installation is still in progress even when it's not.
Can I force the Windows Installer to release the lock?
Yes, you can force release the lock by restarting the Windows Installer service. Open Services (services.msc), find "Windows Installer," right-click and select "Restart." If that doesn't work, you can stop the service completely and then start it again. This clears any existing locks and allows new installations to proceed.
How long should I wait for a stuck installation to complete?
Most installations should complete within 30 minutes. If an installation appears stuck for more than 45-60 minutes, it's likely frozen or encountering an unrecoverable error. At this point, it's safe to terminate the process through Task Manager and proceed with troubleshooting steps to resolve Error 1712.
What if Error 1712 persists after trying all solutions?
If Error 1712 continues after trying all standard solutions, you may need to use more advanced troubleshooting methods such as using the Microsoft Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter, checking system event logs for specific error details, or performing a system file check using "sfc /scannow" in Command Prompt. In rare cases, a Windows update or repair installation may be necessary.