Error 0x80073701 when trying to install .net framework 3.5 in windows server 2016 datacenter

Question

Hi, we need some help regardind the installation of .NET Framework 3.5 in windows server 2016 datacenter.

We have a vmware infrastructure and plenty of vm's with the very same template from windows 2016 datacenter. In every single one we could install .net framework 3.5 without problems.

On this one, that we have SQL Server Standard 2019 we can't install .NET Framework 3.5. The Error 0x80073701 appears in logs.
We tried already several steps. Install from CD, install from powershell. Delete some language packs. Reinstall Language packs.
The problem always persists.

We need .net 3.5 because we need to install a sql 32 bits instance on the same machine.

How can we get pass this?

thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Hi @Pedro Ferreira ,

I would start by checking the system and servicing health by running the following commands:

sfc /scannow  
  
dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth  

Also try installing the latest cumulative update.

If none of the above helps, you could try a repair install, and if that also doesn't help it might be faster performing a clean install.

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(If the reply was helpful please don't forget to upvote or accept as answer, thank you)

Best regards,
Leon

Answer 2

Hi LeonLaude
we already tried that steps and it didn't work.

A repair or clean install it's not possible because this is the production sql server. We have several instances and services working 24 hours.

Answer 3

Hi,

Does the error occur in CBS.log or event log?

If in CBS, are there any error codes recorded in the Event Viewer(Windows Logs\Applications, Setup, System)?

Did you try to repair system through other ISO image?
Please refer the link below and specify a source for DISM command:

How to use DISM command tool to repair Windows 10 image

Please note: Information posted in the given link is hosted by a third party. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy and effectiveness of information.

Bests,

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