Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 SP1 Redistributeable Package install was unsuccessful. How do I fix it?

To resolve the issue with the unsuccessful installation of the Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 SP1 Redistributable Package, you can try the following steps:

1. Check for Double Byte Characters: Ensure that the installation path does not contain any double-byte characters (DBCS). This can cause extraction failures. Use a simple path without special characters.
2. Install Windows Installer: Make sure that Windows Installer 2.0 or later is installed on your system. You can download the latest version of Windows Installer if necessary.
3. Run as Administrator: Try running the installation as an administrator. Right-click on the installer and select "Run as administrator".
4. Use the Correct Package: Ensure you are using the correct version of the Redistributable Package that matches your system architecture (x86, x64, or IA64).
5. Check for Existing Installations: If there is an existing installation of the Visual C++ Redistributable, it may need to be uninstalled first. You can do this through the Add or Remove Programs tool in Control Panel.
6. Check for Updates: Make sure your operating system is up to date, as missing updates can sometimes cause installation issues.

If these steps do not resolve the issue, consider checking the installation logs for any specific error messages that can provide more insight into the problem.

References:

• Error when you install VC Runtime: The filename, directory name, or volume label syntax is incorrect
• Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable latest supported downloads

Hi John Howell,

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A forum. I completely understand how frustrating it is when an installation fails and blocks you from using your media suite. Let’s work through this together.

Here’s a step-by-step guide that usually resolves this issue:

Step 1: Run System File Checks

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Type the following commands one at a time and press Enter:

    sfc /scannow
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  

These commands repair any corrupted system files that might be causing the installer to fail.

Step 2: Enable .NET Framework 3.5

• Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features > Turn Windows features on or off.
• Make sure .NET Framework 3.5 is checked. If not, enable it and restart your computer.

Step 3: Start the TrustedInstaller Service

• Press Windows + R, type "services.msc", and hit Enter.
• Find Windows Modules Installer, set it to Manual, and click Start.
  This service is essential for installing Windows components.

Step 4: Perform a Clean Boot

• Press Windows + R, type "msconfig", and hit Enter.
• Under Services, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click Disable all.
• Restart your PC and try the installation again.
  This helps eliminate conflicts from third-party software.

*Disclaimer: A "clean boot" starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. It helps to determine whether a background service is interfering with your game or program and to isolate the cause of a problem.  These steps of "clean boot" might look complicated at first glance. However, to avoid any trouble for you, please follow them in order and step-by-step so that it will help you get back on track. 

After these steps, retry installing the Microsoft Visual C++ 2005 SP1 Redistributable Package.

Please keep me posted on how it goes, and feel free to reach out if you need any further assistance. I’ll be happy to help.

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Hi John,

What happens when you install the Visual C ++ 2005 redistributable setup? If you got any error messages, please post the screenshot.

Please open "appwiz.cpl" via the Run dialog.

This launches the Programs and Features applet.

Search for c++ using the search box at the top.

In the results window, resize the panes so the entries are fully visible.

Post a screenshot of the applet.