Error message 'key not valid for use in specified state' is preventing me from downloading Quicktime or iTunes. I uninstalled iTunes and am trying to reinstall, but error message keeps popping up interruption the installation.
Welcome to the Support Communities! If you are having trouble installing Quicktime and iTunes on Windows Vista, follow the troubleshooting steps below:
You might see this message if your Windows Installer service registration is corrupted. Reregister the Windows Installer service using the steps below:
Start your computer in Safe mode:
Restart your computer while holding down the F8 key.
When the Windows Advanced Options Menu (XP) or Advanced Boot Options (Vista and Windows 7) appears, use the arrow keys to select Safe Mode.
Press Enter.
Log on to the computer with your administrator password.
Open the Command Prompt.
Windows XP: From the Start menu, choose All Programs > Accessories > Command Prompt.
Windows Vista and Windows 7: From the Start menu, choose All Programs > Accessories, then right-click Command Prompt. Select "Run as administrator" from the shortcut menu.
At the prompt, type each of the following lines. Press Enter after each:
msiexec /unregister msiexec /regserver
Close the Command Prompt window.
Install or remove the Apple software that first caused the message to appear.
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Learn how to resolve issues when installing iTunes for Windows.
Make sure you have an administrator account. To install iTunes, you'll need to log in to your computer with an administrator password. If you're not sure if you have an administrator account, read Windows 7: How do I log on as an administrator? You could also refer to your computer's help system, contact your IT department, or visit support.microsoft.com for assistance.
Install the latest Microsoft Windows updates. To download the latest updates, visit the Microsoft Windows Update website. iTunes for Windows requires Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8 with the latest Service Pack installed. If you can’t install the updates, refer to your computer's help system, contact your IT department, or visit support.microsoft.com for assistance.
Disable conflicting software. Some Windows background processes can cause issues for other programs and processes. These conflicts can prevent applications, such as iTunes, from installing. Disable conflicting processes by starting your computer using MSConfig:
Some security software made by other companies can't be disabled using MSConfig. If you've installed security software and you're having issues installing iTunes or QuickTime for Windows, you might need to disable or uninstall security software to resolve installation issues.
Restart your computer.
Install iTunes.
Additional assistance
If the steps in this article don't help you resolve the issue, you might be able to find a solution through a search of the Microsoft support website.
Information about products not manufactured by Apple, or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple, is provided without recommendation or endorsement. Apple assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding third-party website accuracy or reliability. Risks are inherent in the use of the Internet. Contact the vendor for additional information.