The Windows Installer service could not be accessed

Problem

When you attempt to install a program that uses Windows Installer, you receive the message:
“The Windows Installer service could not be accessed.”

Solution

1. Click the Start button (Windows XP users should then click Run).
2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
3. In the list right click on Windows Installer and click Properties.
4. Change the dropdown to Automatic.
5. Then click Start.
6. Click OK and close the window.

If that doesn’t work:

1. Click the Start button (Windows XP users should then click Run).
2. Type cmd and press Enter.
3. Type msiexec /unregister and press Enter.
4. Type msiexec /regserver and press Enter.
5. Close the command prompt and try installing or uninstalling the software again.