Visual Studio Installation Projects

Troubleshooting Visual Studio 2005 Setup Project Crashes Over Terminal Server

Have you ever experienced a frustrating crash while trying to install a Visual Studio 2005 setup project on a Terminal Server? You’re not alone. Many developers have faced similar challenges when running installation setups over remote sessions. In this blog post, we’ll explore the problem, and I’ll provide you with in-depth solutions to help get your installation back on track.

The Problem at Hand

The issue arises when a setup project created with Visual Studio 2005—which includes both C# .NET 2.0 and C++ MFC components—functions perfectly on a physical console but crashes when accessed via a Terminal Server session.

Symptoms of the Issue:

  • The Setup.exe fails immediately upon invocation.
  • The installation does not reach the welcome screen.
  • The same setup project works fine on local or lab machines over Terminal Server.

Complicating Factors

In this particular scenario, the setup crash may be influenced by environmental factors. One suspected source of error could be the presence of the GoToMyPC Host software on the machine experiencing difficulties.

Finding the Solution

Resolving this issue involves several troubleshooting strategies. Below are steps that you can follow to diagnose and hopefully fix the problem.

Step 1: Check Installation Logs

The first step in troubleshooting is to look for installation logs. Visual Studio setup projects utilize the Windows installer framework, which generates log files when an error occurs. The relevant log file follows a naming convention of MSIc183.LOG (where c183 are variables that may differ).

How to Access the Logs:

  1. Open Windows Explorer.
  2. In the address bar, type %TEMP% and press Enter.
  3. Look for log files named like MSIXYZ.LOG, or check subdirectories labeled 1, 2, etc., as logs may sometimes be stored in there.

Understanding the Logs

If you find an installation log file, examine it for any error codes or messages. These can provide critical clues regarding why the installation is failing. If you’re stuck interpreting the logs, don’t hesitate to ask for help—many in the developer community might offer insight based on their experiences.

Step 2: Additional Troubleshooting Tips

  • Environment Check: Compare the configuration of the failing machine to those that work properly. Even slight differences can lead to installation failures.
  • Software Conflicts: Consider whether the GoToMyPC Host or other software may be interfering with the installation. Temporarily disabling or uninstalling conflicting software could resolve the issue.
  • Run as Administrator: Ensure you are running the setup as an Administrator. Lack of permissions may also lead to setup failures.

Conclusion

While installing Visual Studio 2005 setup projects over Terminal Server can be a daunting task, understanding the root of the problems can lead to effective solutions. By using log files for diagnostics, checking for environmental issues, and being mindful of software conflicts, you significantly increase your chances of a successful installation.

Remember, if you’re still encountering issues after trying the above suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out for support within the developer community. Armed with the knowledge shared in this post, you can tackle these issues with confidence and resilience.

Stay motivated and happy coding!