side by side config errors

Question

i just installed the latest windows update, and since then i cant open steam because of side by side config errors. i tried installing the latest c+++ thing, but when i try to do that it tells me i can because of side by side config errors. i tried installing and uninstalling the program and it didnt let me uninstall it till i manually deleted the app files, and it again says side by side config errors when i try to install it. i dont know that to do please help lol

this is the error message: Activation context generation failed for "C:\WINDOWS\SysWOW64\msi.dll". Dependent Assembly Microsoft.Windows.Common-Controls,language="*",processorArchitecture="*",publicKeyToken="6595b64144ccf1df",type="win32",version="6.0.0.0" could not be found. Please use sxstrace.exe for detailed diagnosis

the windows powershell for whatever reason doesnt see me as an administrator, i dont really care to fix this but if theres something i need to do in there please tell me how to fix that.

Answer 1

Hello,

I recommend performing an in-place upgrade to repair your Windows installation without losing your files. Follow these steps:

In-Place Upgrade Steps:

1. Create the installation media for Windows
2. Connect the installation media you created to your PC
3. Open File Explorer and select the drive with the installation media
4. From the root directory of the drive, open the file setup.exe, and then select Yeswhen asked if you’d like to allow the app to make changes to your device
5. Select Change what to keep
6. Select one of the following options, and then select Next:
   • Keep personal files and apps - This will preserve your personal data, apps, and settings
   • Keep personal files only - This will preserve your personal data and settings, but all your apps will be removed
   • Keep nothing - This will remove all personal data, settings, and apps
7. To finish, select Installto start reinstalling Windows on your PC

Your PC will restart several times during the reinstallation.

If the issue persists, follow this link for more details: In-place Upgrade

Answer 2

just uninstalled the update, it still isnt working :(

Answer 3

Hello Silly,

Thank you for reaching out to Microsoft Community Support and describing the challenges you’re facing after the recent Windows update. I understand how frustrating it must be, especially when you’re unable to open programs or install applications due to the side-by-side configuration errors.

Based on the details you’ve shared, the issue appears to be caused by the recent Windows update. Here’s what you can do to resolve this:

1. Uninstall the Recent Windows Update:
   • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
   • Click on Uninstall updates and select the most recent update to remove it from your system.
   • Restart your computer and check if the error persists.
2. Uninstall and Reinstall the Affected Application:
   • If the issue continues even after uninstalling the update, completely uninstall the application that is giving the side-by-side error.
   • Make sure to manually remove any leftover files from the program folder.
   • Download and reinstall the application from its official website to ensure you have the correct version.

These steps should help resolve the side-by-side configuration errors. If you encounter further issues or need additional assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out, I’ll be here to support you.

Best Regards,

Stiles_14 | Microsoft Community Support Specialist