Can't Install Anything on Windows 10: Easy Expert fixes

One of the most frustrating issues Windows 10 users can encounter is being unable to install applications or updates on their system. This can happen for various reasons, ranging from corrupted system files and inadequate permissions to issues with the Windows Installer service.

Fortunately, there are several solutions that can help resolve this problem and get your system back to normal. In this guide, we'll walk you through how to fix the "Can't install anything" issue in Windows 10.

How Can I Fix Installation Issues in Windows 10?​

1. Check Your Hard Drive Space​

A common reason why you can't install anything on your Windows 10 PC is a lack of disk space. If your drive is full, there won’t be enough room to install new software.

1. Check Available Space:
   • Press Windows + E to open File Explorer.
   • Right-click the C: drive (or the drive where Windows is installed) and select Properties.
   • Check the Free space section to see how much space is available.
2. Free Up Space:
   • If you're running low on space, delete unnecessary files or use the Disk Cleanup tool to remove temporary files, system caches, and other junk data.
   • You can also uninstall unused programs via Control Panel > Programs > Uninstall a program.

Ensuring you have enough free space is the first step in resolving installation issues.

2. Run the Windows Troubleshooter​

Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to detect and fix issues with installing software.

1. Open the Troubleshooter:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
   • Scroll down and select Additional troubleshooters.
2. Run the Troubleshooter:
   • Click on Windows Update and select Run the troubleshooter.
     
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows detect and fix any issues preventing software installation.

Using the Windows Troubleshooter can automatically resolve many common installation issues.

3. Check for Windows Updates​

Sometimes, your system may fail to install new software because it’s missing critical updates.

1. Check for Updates:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
   • Click Check for updates to ensure your system is up to date.
2. Install Available Updates:
   • If updates are available, install them and restart your PC.

Installing the latest Windows updates can resolve compatibility issues and ensure your system is running smoothly.

4. Restart the Windows Installer Service​

The Windows Installer service is responsible for handling the installation of programs. If it’s not running or is malfunctioning, you won’t be able to install anything.

1. Open the Services Window:
   • Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Restart Windows Installer:
   • In the Services window, scroll down to Windows Installer.
   • Right-click on Windows Installer and select Restart. If the option to restart is grayed out, select Start instead.

Restarting the Windows Installer service can fix issues with software installation.

5. Run an SFC and DISM Scan​

Corrupted system files can prevent software from installing properly. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can repair these files.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Windows + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) or Windows Terminal (Admin).
2. Run SFC:
   • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
   • Wait for the scan to complete. It will attempt to fix any corrupted system files.
3. Run DISM (if SFC doesn’t resolve the issue):
   • Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
     • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Running SFC and DISM can repair any corrupted system files that are preventing installations.

6. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Software​

Some third-party antivirus programs can block installations, mistaking new software for potential threats. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software might resolve the issue.

1. Disable Antivirus Software:
   • Right-click on the antivirus icon in the system tray (near the clock) and look for an option to disable or turn off protection.
   • Try installing the software again while the antivirus is disabled.
2. Enable Antivirus Software Again:
   • After the installation is complete, remember to turn your antivirus software back on to protect your system.

Disabling your antivirus temporarily can help if it’s blocking legitimate installations.

7. Change Installation Permissions​

Windows 10 may block installations if you don't have the necessary permissions to install software.

1. Run the Installer as Administrator:
   • Right-click the installer file and select Run as administrator. This gives the installer elevated permissions, which may resolve installation issues.
2. Check File and Folder Permissions:
   • If you're still facing issues, make sure the folder where the software is being installed (e.g., C:\Program Files) has the correct permissions.
   • Right-click the folder, select Properties, go to the Security tab, and ensure your user account has Full control.

Running installers with administrative permissions can often resolve issues where the system is blocking installations.

8. Reset Windows 10 Settings​

If none of the above solutions work, resetting Windows 10 settings to default may resolve underlying issues that are preventing installations.

1. Go to Settings:
   • Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
2. Reset Your PC:
   • Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
   • Choose to Keep my files or Remove everything, depending on your preference.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to reset Windows.

Resetting your PC should only be used as a last resort, as it will revert system settings and possibly remove some programs.

When you can’t install anything on Windows 10, the problem could stem from a variety of causes, including insufficient disk space, outdated Windows updates, corrupted system files, or inadequate permissions. By following the steps in this guide, you can troubleshoot and fix the issue, allowing you to install software and updates once again. If none of these solutions work, you may need to consider reinstalling Windows 10 or seeking professional assistance.