How to Fix QuickBooks Error 1646 During Installation

QuickBooks Error 1646 (installing quickbooks.msi, uninstallation of the update package is not supported) typically appears when attempting to install or switch between editions (e.g., Premier or Accountant) of the same year that are already present on the system. In this post, you’ll learn how to fix QuickBooks error 1646, which occurs when the user is installing accounting software on his or her system.

Quick Steps to repair QuickBooks Error 1646

To fix the QuickBooks error 1646, you can use the Clean Install Tool. Since the company file and all its contents aren’t involved, a Clean Install will not affect the accounting data. The following are the steps involved in using the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool:

Step 1: Gather all information related to the QuickBooks Product

• The installer for your QuickBooks version must be downloaded in your initial step.
• Make sure you have your license number with you at all times.
• Make a note of the year and version of the product you’re using.

Step 2: Uninstall your QuickBooks Desktop 

• To uninstall QuickBooks, go to the Start menu and search for the Control Panel, which you should open.
• The following step is to select programs and features or to uninstall the software.
• Choose the QuickBooks Desktop version with which you’re having problems.
• After that, you must select uninstall or change, then remove, followed by hitting the “Next” tab.

Step 3: Manually rename the QuickBooks Desktop installation folders

The next step is to rename the folders manually to reflect the hidden files, and then rename the folder location. This can be accomplished by adding. That’s all there is to it. Put old at the end of the folder names and that’s all. This operation will allow you to prevent QuickBooks from recognizing the folder when you create a new one. Now, move to the final step. 

Step 4: Reinstall your QuickBooks Desktop 

After you’ve completed the above procedures, you should reinstall QuickBooks and see if the issue still exists.

• Open the QuickBooks.exe file.
• Follow the directions on your screen.
• Also, accept the software license agreement before moving on to the next step.
• Enter your Product and License numbers in the fields provided and then choose “Next”.

Choose the best installation method for you

When you install QuickBooks, you have two options. You have the option of either an Express Install or a Custom and Network installation.

Express Install 

If you’re in the following situations, we propose an express:

• An inexperienced user.
• QuickBooks is being reinstalled.
• QuickBooks will be installed on a single PC (not as part of a network of computers).
• Select the “Express” tab before clicking on the “Next” button
• In the next step, Install should be chosen.
• Select Open QuickBooks after it’s finished.

Custom and Network Install 

If you’re looking for a custom installation, you’re recommended:

• Installing QuickBooks at a different place than the default (such as on a server)
• On a server, you can host your company’s files
• Set up a multi-user network
• Select Custom and Network Options before hitting on the “Next” button
• Choose the one that best represents your QuickBooks usage
• Select “Change the install location” on the next screen
• Choose Browse to find a location for your QuickBooks folder
• The majority of users save it to their Programs folder
• To begin the installation, select “Next”
• Select Open QuickBooks after it’s finished.

Reasons behind the occurrence of Error 1646 when installing QuickBooks 

Here is the list of possible causes that could hinder the error 1646 during your installation process. 

• If the Microsoft NET 1.1 SP1 installer is incorrectly installed.
• When the company file is locked, you can detect the issue.
• If your operating system is out of date.
• It’s possible that your temporary folders in Windows are full.
• It’s possible that the installation procedure isn’t receiving permissions.
• Damaged Microsoft C++ and MSXML components may also indicate the same thing.

Conclusion – Resolving QuickBooks Error 1646 During Installation

QuickBooks Error 1646 occurs when you try installing or updating QuickBooks using an MSI file, typically when another edition of the same version is already present. This stops major installations like upgrading Premier while Pro is installed because QuickBooks blocks uninstalling the existing update. To fix this, use the QuickBooks Tool Hub’s Install Diagnostic Tool, perform a clean reinstall, and ensure you uninstall prior versions, rename old installation folders, and clear system temp files. If issues persist, the Bigxperts QuickBooks support team can assist you remotely for a smooth, error-free update.

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