What Is MSI Error Code 1603? Cause Of MSI Error Code 1603, How To Fix MSI Error Code 1603?
by Subhashree M
Updated Feb 27, 2023
What Is MSI?
MSI stands for Microsoft Installer, which is a software component used for installing, maintaining, and removing software on modern Windows operating systems. It is commonly used to package software products into installer files with the extension MSI. The MSI technology provides a standard and efficient way of installing software that allows users to manage installations through a consistent user interface, simplifying the installation and maintenance of software across an organization's computer network. It also provides features such as repair and uninstallation, making it easier to manage software updates and removal.
What Is MSI Error Code 1603?
A Windows Installer package in the form of an MSI file comprises instructions, data, and necessary information to facilitate program installation or removal in multiple scenarios. Despite this, when attempting to use the Windows Installer service to install an MSI file, a fatal error with exit code 1603 may occur. The MSI error message usually states error - 1603 fatal error during installation, and signifies that the installation was unsuccessful.If any of the following conditions are met, you might encounter this error message: the Windows Installer is trying to install an application that is already installed on your computer, or the folder where you are attempting to install the Windows Installer package is encrypted.
Cause Of MSI Error Code 1603
You may receive this error message if any one of the following conditions is true:
Windows Installer is attempting to install an app that is already installed on your PC.
The folder that you are trying to install the Windows Installer package to is encrypted.
The drive that contains the folder that you are trying to install the Windows Installer package to is accessed as a substitute drive.
The SYSTEM account does not have Full Control permissions on the folder that you are trying to install the Windows Installer package to. You notice the error message because the Windows Installer service uses the SYSTEM account to install software.
How to Fix MSI Error 1603?
MSI 1603 error: Make sure the drive you are trying to install is not encrypted.
Run the Application Installer as Administrator
In the event that an application fails to install on your computer, it is possible that the installer does not possess the necessary administrative permissions to access required files. One possible solution is to attempt launching the application installer with administrative privileges. This can be done by right-clicking on the downloaded installer and selecting the Run as administrator option from the contextual menu. After doing so, check if the installation can proceed without encountering the MSI 1603 error.
Close the Background Software
Installing programs can potentially corrupt Windows Installer due to background software running simultaneously. As a precautionary measure, it is advisable to close any unnecessary background software before commencing installation. This can be achieved by closing all windows on the taskbar and third-party software icons in the notification area. Additionally, one can use the task manager to close other programs.
Outlined below are the detailed steps to follow:
Step 1: Press the Win + X key to open the menu, and then select the Task Manager option to open the Task Manager window.
Step 2: Under the Processes tab, select each program and click on the End task button to close all software listed under the Apps section.
Uninstall the Same Program Installed Completely
Attempting to install a program that is already installed on your computer or an earlier version of the same program may result in an error. To successfully install the program, it is necessary to completely uninstall the program previously installed on the computer. This entails deleting any temporary files and preferences that the program leaves behind, in addition to the main program.
Step 1: Press the Win + R key to open the Run dialog box. Then type control panel in the box and press Enter.
Step 2: Select View by Category from the upper right corner of the Control Panel. Then click Uninstall a program.
Step 3: Then you can check if the application is listed here. If it is, right-click on it and select Uninstall.
Make Sure There’s Enough Hard Drive Space for the Program
The occurrence of MSI installer error 1603 may be an indication that there is insufficient space on the hard drive being targeted. In such a scenario, it is recommended to attempt freeing up hard drive space by clearing temporary or junk files. The detailed steps to follow are outlined below:
Step 1: Press the Win + E key to open File Explorer and click on This PC.
Step 2: Under the Devices and drives section, right-click on your drive where you want to install the application and choose Properties. Then, click Disk Cleanup under the General tab.
Step 3: After a few minutes of calculations, you'll get a new interface listing the total number of files that can be cleaned and the size of each file type. At this point, check the files you want to delete and click OK.
After completing the aforementioned steps, you may proceed to restart your computer and attempt the installation process again to verify whether the MSI error 1603 has been resolved.
What Is MS Error Code 1603? - FAQs
MSI Error Code 1603 can be caused by a variety of issues such as insufficient hard drive space, previous installation failures, conflicts with background applications, or issues with the Windows Installer service.
To reduce the likelihood of encountering MSI Error Code 1603 in the future, it is recommended to keep your operating system and software up-to-date, avoid interrupting the installation process, close unnecessary background applications, and ensure adequate hard drive space.
If none of the suggested solutions work, it may be necessary to seek assistance from the software or hardware manufacturer, or consider seeking professional technical support.