Windows 7 Update .Net Framework Failure

Question

I have a problem updating a Windows 7 machine with KB2518870

This update is for .Net Framework 4.0

It fails! What should I do?

a) Ignore

b) Uninstall .Net Framework then try the update.

c) A better plan that you know of?

Try with a restart. Have you updated earlier and not restart the PC?
Thank you for your help. I am at a relative's house trying gingerly to sort out their problem.

harrymc · Answer 1 · 2011-08-18 11:45:41Z

Take good backups, including maybe a hard disk image, before trying my advice below.

First, try to download the patch from here and apply it this way.

If this doesn't work, you could try to repair .Net 4.0 in Control Panel / Programs and Features : Right-click on it and choose the Repair option.

If this still doesn't work, you can try uninstalling .Net 4.0.

If uninstallation doesn't work, use the .NET Framework Cleanup Tool.
Read very carefully the linked article before using this tool.

William Hilsum · Answer 2 · 2011-08-18 10:23:13Z

@Guy Thomas - Haven't seen you around for ages!

I would highly recommend you do not do a), b) is an option, but as for c)...

The most common problem for .Net updates to fail is lack of disk space, but it could be anything.

However, Can you look in the event viewer and see if anything comes up? .NET is very good at logging/telling you what is wrong.

If you do not need to look back on the log, I recommend clearing it then applying the update again and checking for any events.

Tried the logs, seem comprehensive but difficult to id problem. Appreciate your advice on a).
@Guy Thomas - can you post a screenshot and I will try to help further.
Dear William thanks for the offer of extra help. The cleanup tool turned out to be the solution hence I ticked the above answer.

2 Answers