Windows 10: Duplicate cached installers when MSI tries to put files in the System folder

We have observed an issue on Windows 11 and Windows Server 2025 machines. In certain, reproducible instances, our .MSI installers will produce a second, untracked cached copy of the installer in the C:\Windows\Installers folder. On uninstall, this second copy sticks around, leading to test machines running out of storage space because the .MSIs are never removed. This happens when an .MSI attempts to install files to the System folder [C:\windows\SysWOW64] and the file already exists with a greater-than-or-equal version [as tracked by Windows installer]. We first noticed this with the VC++ Re

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Windows Installer Error: This installation package cannot be opened.

Hi AJ,

Thank you for posting in Community.

We are glad to provide the assistance required to help you answer your query.

The above error can occur if the locally cached Windows Installer package (*.msi) file is damaged or corrupted.

To rectify the above, I suggest that you try the steps mentioned below and check if you are able to install the software successfully.

• Open the \Windows\Installer folder on your computer's hard disk.
• Right-click any file with an .msi extension.
• Click Properties on the shortcut menu. The
  Subject box on the Summary tab contains the name of the product that installed the .msi file.
• Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each .msi file in the \Installer folder, and delete the .msi file for the software that you are trying to install.

Hope this helps

 

Duplicate Public Folders

Hi,

To further identify the cause of this problem, can you provide us the following information?

• What happens when you delete the duplicate folders?
• Does it happen to all of your folders or only those with pictures?
• Any steps you've tried to troubleshoot this issue?

Regards.

 

MSI and MSP Files - They Are Nothing but the Cache

The MSI and MSP files situated within the directory labeled “C:\Windows\Installer” function as cache files essential for the appropriate operation of installed programs. These files play a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of software and in documenting installation particulars. Nevertheless, with the passage of time, there is a propensity for these files to accumulate, thereby occupying significant storage capacity. Hence, it becomes imperative to routinely eliminate cache files that are either unused or outdated in order to liberate disk space and enhance system performance.