I have an HP running Vista after the long feared update I found Media Player had stopped loading stating a file was missing and I needed to upgrade . But since then also Windows installer has stopped working, so no matter what I down load (a newer version etc.of either) It still says windows installer installed incorrectly and needs to be reinstalled. I am in a bit of a pickle. HP has worked for 4 weeks and want a system recovery, but I feel they run to that route instead of tackling and solving the problem. That is a huge amount of work to create. Anyone with an idea? I am 66 and would appericate the help.
Woody

Hi 66,

Try this...go to the Accessories
Right click on Command Prompt
Click on Run as administrator
enter: sfc /scannow
There is a space between "c" and "/".
This could take from minutes to hours to run.

This will fix any missing system fixes.

Reboot after the process is finished.

Many thanks for the tip, I have tried this with HP help to no avial. But I did try once again and it keeps fixing the same three files or updates, I don't know which. However I did run it about four times. I think the windows installer had the biggest problem and I am unable to down load an up date because it uses the corrupt installer. I am mistified to no end.
Woody now know as 66

Take a read of this link...Description of the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility.
The cleaner available through this link might fix your problem.

What worrys me is if "it keeps fixing the same three files", then you might have a bad HDD "C drive".
Have you ever seen a dribble glass? No matter how often you wipe the glass off, it keeps leaking.
I suspect that might be the problem with your computer.

Thanks for the tip, I tried and still no luck. never thought of a bad hard drive. It is new and about 13 months old (the whole unit) Seems I am getting no where fast Hu!
Thanks again
Woody 66

If you want to test your HDD, the best product I know of (it's not free) is Purchase & Download.

Have tested my hard drive and they passed. So I guess that puts us at square one.
Woody 66