Are you struggling with QuickBooks error code 1638 while trying to install or update the program? This issue generally occurs when multiple versions of QuickBooks are installed incorrectly, or some older installation files are not removed properly. It can also arise if the Windows Installer detects duplicate or conflicting QuickBooks entries. The error may stop you from installing new updates or even prevent QuickBooks from launching correctly. If you are a victim of such an error, then in this article, we will discuss about this installation error.
Users receive the following error message when this error occurs:
| Error Code | Message |
| Error 1638: | “Another version of this product is already installed.” |
This error is triggered when the Windows Installer detects the existence of an older or duplicate QuickBooks installation and prevents the new installation or update from proceeding. If you, too, have received this error, you can perform the troubleshooting steps provided further in this article to fix it and resume your work.
What Causes of QuickBooks Installation Error Code 1638?
One or more of the following situations may be the cause of QuickBooks Error 1638:
- QuickBooks desktop Installation guidelines aren’t appropriately followed.
- One QuickBooks Desktop program is already installed on your computer.
- The program’s installation source is damaged.
- Windows Firewall settings are blocking QuickBooks Installation.
- A virus or other infection is causing the issue.
Solution Steps for Fixing QuickBooks Install Error 1638
Now that you know about the possible causes of QuickBooks error code 1638, let’s look at the solutions. It is primarily an installation conflict issue and the best way to fix it is by removing all duplicate entries and performing a clean installation.
Step 1: Locate your QuickBooks version
- Press Windows and R keys simultaneously on your keyboard to open Run command.
- In search box, type CMD and press OK.
- Click on Programs and then select Programs and Features.
- Next, if you see QuickBooks in the lists, double-click on it.
- Wait for the program to open.
Step 2: Open QuickBooks program
- Click on Start button and click on All Programs.
- After that select QuickBooks from the list.
- Select the correct QuickBooks version.
If you still receive error code 1638, then you will have to repair QuickBooks desktop.
Read Also How to Update and Use the New Built-in Browser for QuickBooks Desktop?
Step 3: Repair QuickBooks desktop
Perform the following steps in the sequence as provided below:
- Close QuickBooks and all the other apps related to it.
- Download the latest version of the QuickBooks Tool Hub and save it on your desktop (or any convenient location)
- Open the downloaded file (QuickBooksToolHub.exe) and follow the on-screen prompts to install it.
- Accept the terms and conditions and wait for the installation to complete.
- Go to the location where you have stored the QuickBooks Tools Hub and double-click on its icon to open the tool hub.
Run Quick Fix My program
- Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub and select Program Problems.
- Next, choose Quick Fix My Program.
- Open QuickBooks Desktop.
If repairing QuickBooks Desktop doesn’t fix this installation error, move on to the next step.
Step 4: Clean Install of QuickBooks Desktop
Uninstall QuickBooks program
- Log in to your computer with admin rights.
- Press the Windows Start button on the keyboard.
- Type Control Panel in the search box and press Enter key.
- Select Programs and Features and tap on Uninstall a Program.
- Next, choose your version of QuickBooks from the list of programs.
- Lastly, you need to select Uninstall and then click on the Next tab.
Reinstall QuickBooks program
- Find and open the file QuickBooks.exe.
- Follow the onscreen prompts.
- Accept the software license agreement and click on the Next tab.
- Enter your Product and License numbers.
- Select Next.
FAQs
Is there a specific version of QuickBooks affected by Error 1638?
This error can erupt in any QuickBooks version that requires Microsoft .NET Framework for the update installation.
Are there any specific prerequisites I need to consider before attempting to resolve Error 1638?
Yes! Following are some necessary prerequisites that need to be given due consideration:
1. Make sure to log in as an administrator.
2. Create a Backup of the company file.
3. Internet connection should be seamless.
Can QuickBooks Error 1638 be resolved by reinstalling Microsoft .NET Framework?
Yes! Reinstalling Microsoft .NET Framework can help resolve this error as this Microsoft component forms a necessary backbone for the seamless functioning of QuickBooks.
I see “Another version of QuickBooks is already installed.” What does this mean?
It means Windows detects duplicate QuickBooks entries or leftover files from an older version, preventing the new installation.
Can I run two versions of QuickBooks on the same system?
Yes, but only if installed correctly. Error 1638 occurs when an old version was not properly uninstalled before installing a new one.
Can Windows updates prevent Error 1638?
Yes, outdated Windows components can cause conflicts. Keeping Windows updated reduces installation issues like 1638.
Final Words
We hope that you find this article helpful in successfully fixing QuickBooks Error 1638: Another version of this product is already installed. If you have any queries or you need any further assistance, contact our round-the-clock QuickBooks error support team of certified technicians.
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