Adequate Solutions to eradicate QuickBooks Error code 1646
As we all are no doubt aware that QuickBooks Desktop software has always been the most reliable and well-established accounting software at the forefront for small and medium-sized business enterprises. However, this accounting software often faces many technical glitches and errors. This is only the major drawback of this application that users have reported while working with it on both Windows and Mac Versions. So, in this invaluable segment we will discuss one such error of this accounting software named as: QuickBooks Error 1646.
“Error 1646 installing quickbooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported”.
QuickBooks Error 1646 is the kind of error that usually appears when the user tries to install QuickBooks premier on a system that already has installed QuickBooks premier version of the identical year. And the prompt message of this error that usually displays on the screen is stated as:

Moreover, there are several other reasons that could create such a blunder. So let us understand more about this error, its causes and its relevant solutions. Make sure you read this article till the end. You can also connect with our Tech Support team for any sort of further QuickBooks related guidance, by calling us at +1-844-521-0490.
How to identify QuickBooks Error 1646?
Usual Symptoms that you may notice with QuickBooks Error code 1646 are as follows:
- The Company File may get locked can be the one reason.
- Components like Microsoft C++ and MSXML may damage.
- Using an outdated version of OS.
- Inappropriate installation of Microsoft NET 1.1 SP1.
- No permissions granted to installation process.
- In case Temporary folders of Windows are full.
Appropriate Measures to tackle the QuickBooks Error Code 1646
In order to fix this error user can try following measures mentioned below.
Let us have a glance on each of these measures:
You may also see: How to Reinstall QuickBooks for Windows Using Clean Install?
STEP 1: Verify the information of the Product of QuickBooks Desktop software.
Under the process to rectify the error code 1646, you will first have to verify the product information in QuickBooks using the set of steps enumerated below:
- At first, launch the QuickBooks Desktop Software.
- Then tap on the F2 key on the keyboard. This will display the Product information window in front of you.

- In this window you will get all the required information regarding the Product.
- Finally Note down all the information in details like license number and Product key.
- Along with this, make sure to note down the version and year of the Product as well.
STEP 2: Uninstallation of QuickBooks Desktop Software.
Follow these simple steps to install the QuickBooks Desktop Software.
- Go to the START menu and then head to Control panel by clicking on it or by typing control in the search box and open the Control panel by double clicking on it.
- Next, Select Programs and Features option or you can also select uninstall a program by clicking on it.

- Then Select your version of QuickBooks Desktop
- Now click on the uninstall or change and then select the remove option.

- Finally Hit the Next button.
Read this also: How to Troubleshoot the QuickBooks Error Code 12157?
STEP 3: Rename the folders of the QuickBooks Desktop installation folders manually.

In this step you have to change the name of the QuickBooks Desktop installation folders which will reflect the hidden files after that change, for this you have to:
- Right Click on the folder and add ‘.old’ in the end of the folder name.
- This will prevent QuickBooks accessing the folder that is renamed before. As a result of this QuickBooks will make the new folder.
This is the most constructive way to eradicate this QuickBooks Error 1646, in case if it is unsuccessful in rectifying this error, Move on to the Final Step.
STEP 4: Reinstallation of QuickBooks Desktop Software.

When you are done with the above set of steps, try reinstalling QuickBooks software using the set of steps enumerated below:
- At first, head to the start menu.
- Now, look for the control tab and double click on the control panel.
- Heading forward, click on the programs and features tab within the control panel window.
- You now have to choose QuickBooks from the list of installed software.
- Select Uninstall/change options and also click on uninstall.
- Moving ahead, wait for the process to end.
- And further reboot the software.
- You will then be required to install QuickBooks and ascertain that you have the product and license keys in hand as they will be required at the time of installation.
- Now, proceed with the steps ahead for installation and perform the onscreen instructions.
- Moreover, launch QuickBooks and check if the issue is rectified.
STEP 5: Uninstall QuickBooks and manually rename the installation folders
- Start the process by uninstalling QuickBooks.
- Carry out the steps to display the hidden files.
- Furthermore, open windows start menu and also look for the file explorer.
- Open the same and you can open it by clicking on Windows + E.
- You will then have to look for and open the folder that holds QuickBooks company files.
- This will be the QuickBooks folder. You can find this in any of the paths enumerated below:
- C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks(year)
- C:\Users(Current user)\AppData\Local\Intuit\QuickBooks(year)
- C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (year) 64-bit version
- C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks (year)
- Right click the folder and select rename tab.
- You will then have to add the word old at the end of the folder name and this will prevent QuickBooks from trying to open it when you reinstall.
- Conclude the procedure by reinstalling QuickBooks.
- In case you are able to spot the error message when trying to rename, try continuing with the steps below:
- Right click the windows taskbar and select task manager.
- After the task manager opens, move to the processes tab.
- Select the name column header to sort the list.
- Select the following processes and end each of the processes including: QBDBMgrN.exe, QBDBMgr.exe, QBCFMonitorService.exe, Qbw32.exe.
- End the process by selecting yes tab, if the error message states: Terminating a process can cause undesired results.

Don’t Skip This Article: How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Update Errors?
Winding Up!
Well, after carrying out all the above-mentioned steps, if the QuickBooks Error Code 1646 still troubles you then without wasting your much time we would highly recommend you to contact our dedicated team of QuickBooks Customer support Number at +1-844-521-0490 who would provide you the support services in a least possible time to fix this issue.
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FAQs
QuickBooks error code 1646 can often be encountered when you try to install the updates for QuickBooks. This error can be seen with a warning message that states: Error 1646 installing QuickBooks.msi uninstallation of the update package is not supported.
A few common reasons behind the occurrence of such an error are as follows:
1. Damaged QuickBooks company file
2. Windows temporary folder is full
3. Outdated QuickBooks version is being used
4. Microsoft NET 1.1 SP1 installer is installed inappropriately
You can try fixing the error using the steps below:
1. Updating QuickBooks and windows to latest release
2. Renaming the installation folders
3. Uninstall and reinstalling QuickBooks