Hi Annette Young,
A runtime error is a software or hardware problem that prevents a program from working correctly. Runtime errors might cause you to lose information in the file you're working on, cause errors in the file (corrupt the file) so you can't work with it, or prevent you from using a feature. Unlike stop errors, runtime errors don't typically cause Windows or a program to stop working.
To resolve the issue:
- Check whether the software is compatible with Vista or not.
- Keep you copy of Windows updated through Windows Update.
- Check your computer for Viruses.
- Make sure that the computer’s hardware requirement meets the basic requirement of the application that you are trying to install.
Also check the link below for reference:
What is a runtime error?
http://windowshelp.microsoft.com/Windows/en-us/help/084cfbd0-c048-4983-97ce-7ce894f7e2c41033.mspx
Let us know if that helps.
Regards,
Chethan Kumar.
Microsoft Answers Support Engineer. Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.