ERROR_INSTALL_ALREADY_RUNNING 0x80070652
Error code 1618 · HRESULT 0x80070652
Another installation is already in progress. Complete that installation before proceeding with this install.
Also searched as: 0x80070652, error 1618, another installation is already in progress
What it means
Error 1618 / 0x80070652 "Another installation is already in progress" means Windows Installer is busy with a different package and cannot start yours. It appears when installing programs, Office, drivers or Windows updates, especially right after startup when updates install in the background.
Applies to: Windows 10, Windows 11
How to fix ERROR_INSTALL_ALREADY_RUNNING
- Wait a few minutes for the other installation to finish, then retry
- Restart the computer to end any stuck installer, then run your installation first
- Open Task Manager > Details and end msiexec.exe processes only if no visible installation is running
- Check Settings > Windows Update for an update that is installing or waiting for restart and complete it
- Restart the Windows Installer service: open services.msc, right-click Windows Installer and choose Restart
- If an update shows 0x80070652, reset the Windows Update cache by stopping wuauserv and bits and renaming C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution
Why it happens
Windows Installer allows only one MSI transaction at a time. Background updates, software deployment tools, or an installer that hung leaves the mutex held, so new installs are refused.
FAQ
Is it safe to end msiexec.exe?
Generally yes if no installation window is open, but restarting the PC is the safest option.
Why does error 1618 appear right after boot?
Windows or another updater is often installing packages in the background at startup.
Related errors
Source: Microsoft WinError.h · fixes written and reviewed by the editors (see our editorial policy)
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