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Easy guide to fix Error 1646: installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported:

Often when you try to work on QuickBooks accounting software with full concentration, you might suddenly bump into some or the error technical snag. In this segment, we will be throwing light on one such error i.e., QuickBooks error 1646. You might bump into Error 1646 installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported, when you try to install QuickBooks desktop premier on a system that is having QuickBooks desktop pro of the same year already installed. Not only this, but this sort of error can also be encountered while installing QuickBooks accountant on a system that already has a premier version installed that too of the same year. As the error message itself sounds pretty annoying, so is the error:

WarningError 1646 installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported
QuickBooks error 1646 -  Screenshot
Error 1646 installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported

So, here we are with the most relevant solution to QuickBooks error code 1646. Make sure that you read this thread till the end. Or else, if you are short of time, you can simply get on a call with our tech team using our dedicated support line i.e., 1-800-761-1787, and ask our professionals to fix the error on your behalf. Our QuickBooks error support team will be happy to help you.

Signs of QuickBooks error 1603

Check out the following symptoms that users usually witness when QuickBooks error 1646 occurs:

  • You can identify the error when the company file is locked.
  • If the Microsoft NET 1.1 SP1 installer is installed inappropriately.
  • Damaged Microsoft C++ and MSXML components can be another sign for the same.
  • In case you are using an outdated version of OS.
  • Your temp Windows temporary folders might be full.
  • The installation process might not be getting permissions.

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Steps to Resolve the QuickBooks Error Code 1646

You can simply carry out the clean install tool to resolve the QuickBooks error 1646. A clean install won’t affect the accounting data since the company file and everything it holds aren’t involved at all. The steps involved in clean install tool are as follows:

Step 1: Check the product information in QuickBooks desktop

Product Information window - Screenshot
  • Launch the QuickBooks Desktop software.
  • Press the F2 key on the keyboard to show the Product Information Window on the screen.
  • The Window contains all the necessary product-related information.
  • Note down all the important details somewhere including License Number and the Product key.
  • Also, make sure to note down the product year and version.

Step 2: Uninstall QuickBooks desktop

  • You need to remove QuickBooks by opening the Start menu and then looking for Control panel and opening the same.
  • Choose Programs and Features tab.
  • Then hit on Uninstall a program option.
Programs and Features - Screenshot Image
  • Select the version of QuickBooks desktop you are having issues with.
  • Moving ahead, you need to select the uninstall or change and then remove and also hit next.
  • Now select the Remove option and finally hit on Next.
Uninstall or Reinstall QuickBooks - Screenshot

Step 3: Manually rename the installation folders

Rename the QuickBooks desktop installation folders - Screenshot

The next step is to manually rename the folders, to reflect the hidden files after that rename the folder location. This can be done by adding .Old at the end of the folder names and that’s it. This action will permit you to avoid QuickBooks from recognizing the folder at the time when you will make the new one. Now, move to the last step.

It is an effective way of getting rid of QuickBooks install error 1646. However, if this step doesn’t rectify the error, it is highly recommended that you proceed with the re-installing of the QuickBooks software in the following step.

Read Also: How to Fix Outlook is missing in send forms preferences in QuickBooks?

Step 4: Reinstall QuickBooks desktop software

Install QuickBooks desktop 2020 - Screenshot

Once the above steps are complete, you are supposed to reinstall the QuickBooks software and check if the error persists.

  • From the Start menu, search for Control and double-click on the Control panel.
  • Select the Programs and Features tab.
  • Then choose QuickBooks from the list of installed software.
  • In the next step, click on Uninstall/Change and click on Uninstall.
  • Wait for the process to finish.
  • Once the process completes, reboot the PC.

Step 5: Uninstall QuickBooks and manually rename the installation folders (Optional)

  • At first, you need to uninstall QuickBooks.
  • Follow the steps to display hidden files.
  • Open the windows start menu. You are required to look for “File explorer” and open the same.
  • You will then have to spot and open the folder that holds QuickBooks company files. This will be the QuickBooks folder in normal cases. You can find this in any of the below mentioned paths:
    • C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks(year)
    • C:\Users\(Current user)\AppData\Local\Intuit\QuickBooks(year)
    • C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (year)
    • 64-bit version C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks (year)
  • Now, hit right-click on the Folder and choose Rename option.
  • Next step is to add the word “old” at the end of the folder name. This will prevent the QuickBooks software from trying to open it when you reinstall.
  • Lastly, reinstall the QuickBooks desktop.

In case you identify an access error message while trying to rename the folder, then the below-mentioned steps could assist you:

  • Initially, you need to right click the Windows task bar, and also choose the task manager.
  • Once done with that, move to the processes tab.
  • Followed by opting for name column header to sort the list.
  • Next step is to select the following processes and then end process for each: QBDBMgrN.exe, QBDBMgr.exe, QBCFMonitorService.exe, Qbw32.exe.
Close QBW32.exe process - Screenshot
  • Towards the end, you are supposed to select yes, in case an error message is seen stating “WARNING: Terminating a process can cause undesired results..“.

See it Also: How can we fix error code TD500 ‘There was a problem with your update’?

Concluding..!

Well, carrying out the above clean install process might help you in getting rid of QuickBooks error 1646. However, if for any reason this error continues to trouble you, then do not waste time just ring up using our dedicated line i.e., 1-800-761-1787, and ask our QuickBooks customer support team to deal with this error on your behalf. Help is available round the clock!

FAQs

Q.1. What is Error 1646 in QuickBooks?

A.1. QuickBooks users may face up with Error 1646 when trying to install the updates for QuickBooks.

Q.2. What are the common reasons behind QuickBooks Error 1646?

A.2. Some of the common reasons related to Error 1646 are:
1. Some of the important QuickBooks files might be damaged.
2. If the Microsoft NET 1.1 SP1 installer is installed inappropriately.
3. Damaged Microsoft C++ and MSXML components can be another sign of the same.
4. In case you are using an outdated version of O/S.
5. The Windows temporary folder might be full.

Q.3. What error message can be seen when the error occurs?

You might see the following error message on your desktop screen:

Error message: cannot find the .msi installation package to complete the installation
or
Error 1646 installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported

 

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