How to Repair the Windows Installer on a Dell Latitude D800 Laptop

Windows Installer is the "engine" your Dell Latitude D800 laptop uses to install, repair, maintain and remove software. However, if your computer's Windows Installer becomes corrupt or you inadvertently delete necessary files, you will have problems. You will find yourself unable to download new applications or uninstall programs you no longer want, and may have other, related issues. However, before you toss your laptop out a window, try repairing the Installer first.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Log on to your system with a username that has administrator rights. Click the "Start" button, then click "Run." In the "Run" box, type "cmd" (without quotes) in the "Open" field and click "OK."

2. Type "msiexec.exe /unregister" (without quotes) after the command prompt and press the "Enter" key. Next, type "msiexec /regserver" and press "Enter" again. Verify that the user "System" has full permissions to the "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT."

3. Click the "Start" button, click "Run" and type "regedit" in the "Run" box in the "Open" field. Click "OK." Click "HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT."

4. Click "Permissions" on the "Edit" menu. Check to see if "System" is listed under "Group or User Names." If not, click "Add." Type "System" in the "Enter the Object Names to Select" box and make sure the "From this Location" field shows your local computer. Click "OK."

5. In the "Group or User Names" list, click "System." Select the check box for "Full Control" under "Allow." Click "Apply," click "OK" and then close the Registry Editor. Restart your computer.

Tips & Warnings

• Back up your registry prior to making changes. If this does not repair the Installer, reinstall Windows.
• Modifying the Windows Registry incorrectly can cause serious damage to your system. If you are not confident performing these steps, seek professional assistance.

Resources

• How to Back Up a Registry