If you can’t install, uninstall, or update a desktop program in Windows 10, the Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter can automatically fix common issues such as corrupted registry keys or incomplete uninstall data.

There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly.

When you install, uninstall, or update a program on a Windows-based computer, you may receive one of the following error messages. The Windows Installer Service could not be accessed. Windows Installer Service couldn't be started. Could not start the Windows Installer service on Local Computer. Error 5: Access is denied.

Provides links to the uninstall tools and directions for many security programs.

When critical Windows system files are missing or corrupted, your operating system may begin to malfunction. Common symptoms include Windows features not working properly, system errors, or Windows becoming unresponsive or freezing.

Download the drivers for the desired device from the device manufacturer's site. Make sure to download the correct drivers that match the version and architecture of Windows. Once downloaded, if necessary, uncompress the downloaded drivers. Make a note of where the drivers are located on the Windows device.

This article explains how to repair apps and programs in Windows 10 and use Settings to fix common app issues without reinstalling. Select Start > Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Select the app you want to fix. Select Advanced options under the name of the app (some apps don't have this option).

Follow the steps in the section, How to start the Windows Installer service when system services are not loaded. Then try installing or uninstalling the app or update again. If the installation or uninstallation is successful, your issue is resolved.

Use this tool to find and remove specific prevalent threats and reverse the changes that they made (see Covered malware families). For comprehensive malware detection and removal, consider using Windows Defender Offline or Microsoft Safety Scanner.

Learn how to get older apps or programs to run on Windows 10 or Windows 11 by adjusting compatibility settings.