"Could not open key" message when installing iTunes or Apple components for Windows

When you install iTunes or other Apple components for Windows, you might see the following message during the installation process:

"Could not write value to key. Verify that you have sufficient access to that key or contact your personnel.”

Reregister the Windows Installer service

You might see this message if your Windows Installer service registration is corrupted. Reregister the Windows Installer service using the steps below: 

  1. Start your computer in Safe mode:
    • Restart your computer while holding down the F8 key.
    • When the Windows Advanced Options Menu (XP) or Advanced Boot Options (Vista and Windows 7) appears, use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode.
    • Press Enter.
  2. Log on to the computer with your administrator password.
  3. Open the Command Prompt.
    • Windows XP: From the Start menu, choose All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.
    • Windows Vista and Windows 7: From the Start menu, choose All Programs > Accessories, then right-click Command Prompt. Select "Run as administrator" from the shortcut menu.
    • At the prompt, type each of the following lines. Press Enter after each:

      msiexec /unregister
      msiexec /regserver

  4. Close the Command Prompt window.
  5. Install or remove the Apple software that first caused the message to appear.

If the issue persists, continue below.

Reset Windows Security Settings

If reregistering the Windows Installer service didn't work, you might be able to resolve the issue by resetting your Windows Security settings. Learn more: How do I restore security settings to a known working state?

Additional information

If you continue to receive the message, contact Windows support. 

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