- 1). Close any active programs. Other running software may conflict with your installation. Once you close all of the open windows, check the system tray in the bottom right hand corner to check for other running programs. Close any programs that are not necessary, and if you absolutely trust the software publisher and its content, you can shut down your antivirus software, too.
- 2). Update Windows Vista before attempting anything else, as Install Shield may not work properly if your Vista service pack is not current. To do this, go to the start menu and select "Windows Update" from the list. This will open an Internet Explorer window and prompt you to search for updates. Click the "search for updates" button, and if any uninstalled service packs are found, download and install those updates. If you install any new service packs, reboot your computer and try Install Shield again. If this does not fix the problem, proceed to the next step.
- 3). Navigate to the Install Shield common errors page and see if your problem is listed among the common errors. A link to this page can be found in the resources section. If your problem is listed, click the error code, and you'll be led to step-by-step directions on how to correct the issue.
- 4). Read through all of the troubleshooting documentation supplied with the third-party software you're trying to install and that is causing Install Shield to experience errors. If Vista is fully up-to-date and all of your other programs are running, then Install Shield should work fine. If it does not work fine, the problem is most likely with the third-party software, and the issue may be addressed in the documentation. If the software publisher suggests any patches or alternative installation methods, try those.
- 5). Contact the publisher of the third-party software directly if you're still having problems. You can often look up the software publisher's website and contact its support department via email. Be sure to include any relevant details or error codes when you contact the publisher about the problem.
- 6). Restart the computer in safe mode if all else fails, and try to install the software then. To do this, restart the computer and hold down the F8 key during boot-up. You'll hear a beep, then see a menu of choices. Select safe mode and press enter. When the system boots up, try to install the software again. Regardless of whether this works or not, Vista will boot up again in regular mode if you restart the computer after your installation attempt.
previous post