Microsoft Installer issue preventing some apps from opening on Windows 11, 10

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A problem with the Microsoft Installer can prevent apps from opening on Windows 11 or Windows 10 following repairs or updates.

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What you need to know

  • Microsoft confirmed an issue with the Microsoft Installer on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
  • The issue can prevent apps from opening after an update or repair has been attempted.
  • It's possible to mitigate this problem now, and Microsoft is working on a permanent fix.

The problem can appear after installing the KB5007215 update or later. KB5007215 started shipping on November 9, 2021. Windows 11 and several versions of Windows 10 may see the problem.

Here's the complete list of affected platforms, as detailed by Microsoft:

Client: Windows 11, version 21H2; Windows 10, version 21H2; Windows 10, version 21H1; Windows 10, version 20H2; Windows 10, version 2004; Windows 10, version 1909; Windows 10, version 1809; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2019; Windows 10 Enterprise LTSC 2016; Windows 10, version 1607; Windows 10 Enterprise 2015 LTSB; Windows 8.1; Windows 7 SP1Server: Windows Server 2022; Windows Server, version 20H2; Windows Server, version 2004; Windows Server, version 1909; Windows Server, version 1809; Windows Server 2019; Windows Server 2016; Windows Server 2012 R2; Windows Server 2012; Windows Server 2008 R2 SP1; Windows Server 2008 SP2

It's possible to mitigate this issue by uninstalling an affected app and installing the latest version of that same app. Microsoft is working on a complete resolution for the issue that will come out in a future update.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.