Question:

“Could an expert advise on the ‘Install failed contact your software vendor’ error I’m encountering with .txt files on my new Windows 11 PC? After a system restart, .txt files refuse to open normally. An error message appears, but the file eventually opens in a basic version of Notepad with a notification for a new version update, which fails to load upon interaction. Additionally, I’ve discovered a similar issue with Media Player, whereas the Legacy version operates correctly. This is quite frustrating as I’m currently preparing for an exam and require a swift resolution.”

Answer:

If you’re encountering the ‘Install Failed Contact Your Software Vendor’ error on your Windows 11 PC, particularly when attempting to open .txt files, it’s understandable that you’d be seeking a prompt solution, especially with exams on the horizon. This error can be particularly perplexing when it allows the file to open in a rudimentary version of Notepad after displaying an error message, yet fails to update to the new version as prompted.

The issue seems to extend to the Media Player as well, with the Legacy version functioning correctly while the main application does not. This suggests that the problem may lie with the recent updates or the installation process of certain built-in applications.

Here are some steps you can take to resolve these issues:

Windows 11 includes a variety of troubleshooters designed to quickly diagnose and automatically resolve various computer problems. The Windows Store Apps troubleshooter can check for problems that may be preventing Windows Store apps from working correctly.

2.

Reset the Notepad App:

If the Notepad app is malfunctioning, resetting it can often resolve the issue. To reset Notepad:

• Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features.
• Find Notepad in the list, select it, and click on Advanced options.
• Click on the Reset button.

3.

Check for Windows Updates:

Ensure that your system is up-to-date with all the latest Windows updates, as these can include fixes for known issues.

4.

Reinstall the Notepad and Media Player Apps:

If the above steps don’t work, you might need to reinstall the Notepad and Media Player apps. You can do this through the Optional Features settings in Windows 11.

5.

Perform a System File Check (SFC):

The SFC scan is a command-line tool that scans for corrupted files and resources. To run an SFC scan:

• Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type `sfc /scannow` and press Enter.

6.

Consider an In-Place Upgrade:

If all else fails, an in-place upgrade can refresh your Windows installation while keeping your files and applications intact.

It’s crucial to address such issues promptly, as they can significantly disrupt productivity, especially when preparing for important events like exams. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the ‘Install failed contact your software vendor’ error and restore normal functionality to your .txt files and media applications on Windows 11.

Remember, if you’re not comfortable performing these actions yourself, it’s always a good idea to seek assistance from a certified technician who can ensure that the process is done correctly and safely. Good luck with your exam preparations!