How to fix Error 1306 on Windows 11

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Troubleshooting Guide: Error 1306 – Revision Level Incompatibility

Why This Error Happens

Error 1306 typically occurs during Windows Installer (MSI) operations when a file or component on the system has a different version/revision level than what the installer package expects. This often stems from corrupted Windows Installer cache files, a partially completed previous installation, or conflicting versions of shared DLLs left behind by an incomplete uninstall. It can also surface when installer files are being accessed by another process, preventing proper version verification.

Step-by-Step Resolution Guide

Step 1: Clear the Windows Installer Cache

  • Press Win + R, type %windir%\Installer, and press Enter.
  • Do not delete files directly; instead, run the Microsoft Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter (available via Microsoft Support) to safely clean orphaned installer entries.
  • Restart the system after the troubleshooter completes.

Step 2: Verify File Permissions on the Installer Directory

  • Navigate to C:\Windows\Installer in File Explorer.
  • Right-click the folder, select Properties > Security > Advanced.
  • Ensure SYSTEM and Administrators have Full Control permissions.
  • Apply changes and restart the installation process.

Step 3: Terminate Conflicting Background Processes

  • Open Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc).
  • End any running instances of msiexec.exe, antivirus scanners, or backup software that may lock installer files.
  • Reattempt the installation immediately after closing these processes.

Step 4: Re-register the Windows Installer Service

  • Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Run the following commands sequentially:
  msiexec /unregister
  msiexec /regserver
  • Restart Windows 11 and retry the installation or update.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Boot Installation

  • Type msconfig in the Start menu search and open System Configuration.
  • Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
  • Under the Startup tab, open Task Manager and disable all startup apps.
  • Reboot and attempt the installation in this clean environment.

Alternative or Verification Steps

  • After completing the steps, open Event Viewer (eventvwr.msc) and check the Application log for Event ID 1306 to confirm it no longer appears during a fresh install attempt.
  • If the error persists, use the System File Checker tool by running sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt to repair any remaining corrupted system files that may be causing version mismatches.