The installation program encountered an unexpected error code 2203 when installing SQL Server

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This week we will discuss one of the most common error messages we receive when installing SQL Server 2008 R2 on Windows systems. This is the fourth article in the SQL troubleshooting series we started four weeks ago. Over the past few weeks, we have discussed several error messages when installing SQL. This week, we discuss the most common mistakes:

The installer has encountered an unexpected error. The error code is 2203. database : C:WindowsInstaller29cf05.ipi. The database file cannot be opened. System error -2147287035

and

Error when writing to C:WindowsInstaller29cf32.msi file. Make sure you have access to this directory. Click’Repeat’ to repeat the failed action or click’Cancel’ to continue.

In the previous articles, we discussed the permissions needed for SQL Server to work properly. Let me mention again that with SQL installations, it is better to always install it under the local administrator account, instead of installing it under the domain administrator, because even if you are the domain administrator, you may still have some security restrictions. For a clear understanding, it is best to refer to this TechNet article.

The installer has encountered an unexpected fault 2203

The first method is performed first. Before changing the installer permissions, it is a good idea to create a system restore point just to be sure.

• Click Start and enter Create system restore point.
• It must open the system properties
• Click Create and enter a name for the system restore point.

Now that we have created a system restore point, we give permission to the installer folder.

• Go to Start -> Run -> Run – Install
• Right-click the folder Install and click Properties
• Click the tab Security
• Click Edit and then click Add.
• In the Enter object names field to select , type the word System and press Enter.
• Now select System from the list of user names and select Full control under Allow column. Click Apply
• Now click Edit and then click Add.
• In the Inter object names to select and enter the user account Windows .
• Now select Windows User Account from the list of user names and select Full Control under Allow column. Click Apply & OK

Now try reinstalling SQL Server 2008 R2 and see if it works.

The other common reason I have seen is that security software like Norton, McAfee or Panda etc. sometimes cause problems when installing SQL 2008 R2 and display this error message. Therefore, it is best to completely disable any security software on your computer and try reinstalling SQL Server 2008 R2 to see if it works.

Sometimes it’s the wrong time, real-time antivirus scanning scans the file in Install at the same time as Setup tries to open the file and install it from it, you get this kind of error. At other times, after a while, it may repair itself by restarting the computer. Once you have done this, try installing SQL Server 2008 R2 again and see if it works.

These methods should help you correct this error. If you need help, please let us know in the comments section.

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