There are various installation and update problems that could occur when installing or updating QuickBooks Desktop in your Windows system. QuickBooks Error 1638 is among the most common installation errors that you will usually receive along with the following error message- "If another version of this product is already installed. Installation of this version cannot be done.”

 

The above error will definitely occur during the installation, repair, or update of QuickBooks Desktop software if there exists any other version of QuickBooks or a different application from Microsoft that is already in use.

What Causes QuickBooks Error Code 1638?

  • Possession of an older version of Windows OS could also be another reason for the issue.
  • Error Code 1638 in QuickBooks could arise when there is a problem with the previous installation.
  • Installation problems can be caused by damage to your computer's Microsoft-related components.
  • A failed or interrupted upgrade attempt may result in an error code like this.
  • Error 1638 may also be due to damage to Windows' registry entries.
  • Having an outdated version of Windows OS might also lead to the problem at hand.

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 1638

Here are some easy methods to resolve this error code 1638.

Solution 1 - Uninstall the Previous QuickBooks Version

  • Launch the Control Panel on your PC.
  • Head to Programs and Features.
  • Select the previous QuickBooks version from the list of installed programs.
  • Hit Uninstall/Change, then proceed with the given steps.
  • Shut down your system after uninstallation.
  • Install the latest QuickBooks Desktop version next.

Solution 2 - Install Windows Update

  • Click on Settings on your PC.
  • Choose Windows Update or Update & Security.
  • Hit Check for Updates.
  • Install all new Windows updates.
  • Restart your system after installing updates.
  • Install QuickBooks again.

Solution 3 – Install .NET Framework Repair

  • Visit the control panel and click on Programs and Features.
  • Click Turn Windows features on or off.
  • Click on the .NET Framework.
  • Uninstall it and restart your computer.
  • Then install the .NET Framework again, and then reboot your system.
  • Now install QuickBooks.

Solution 4 – Install QuickBooks As Administrator

  • Find the path to your QuickBooks installation file in your system.
  • Right-click on the installation file and select it.
  • Then, use the ‘Run as Administrator’ feature of your right-click mouse.
  • Start installing QuickBooks.

 

Recommended to read: How to Use QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

 

How to avoid this QuickBooks Error 1638 in the future?

 

  • One should download the QuickBooks installation files from reliable sources.
  • It is necessary to update the operating system.
  • One should configure the firewall and antivirus programs to ensure easy installation. 
  • Scan your computer for viruses and malware so as to prevent damage to the installation file. 
  • Restart the computer once the QuickBooks installation is complete. 

 

Conclusion

In this blog post, we discussed the causes and solutions for QuickBooks error 1638. We mentioned the reasons why this issue occurs and the simple methods to resolve it quickly. If you’re encountering error 1638, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experts at 855-510-6487 Call as soon as possible.