ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_DISALLOWED - 1640 (0x668)
Only administrators have permission to add, remove, or configure server software during a Terminal services remote session. If you want to install or configure software on the server, contact your network administrator.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
The ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_DISALLOWED error code, with the numeric value of 1640 and hexadecimal representation of 0x668, indicates that an attempt to install or configure software on a server during a Terminal Services remote session has been denied due to insufficient administrative privileges.
Error Details
This error is specific to scenarios where administrators have configured security policies to restrict certain operations, such as software installation and configuration, during remote sessions. The error message suggests contacting the network administrator for assistance in performing these tasks.
Usage Context
The ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_DISALLOWED error typically occurs when a user attempts to install or configure server software through a Terminal Services session without having administrative privileges on the server machine. This restriction is often implemented as part of security policies designed to prevent unauthorized changes to critical systems during remote access sessions.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should interpret this error code as an indication that the current user context does not have sufficient permissions to perform the requested operation. The application or service should handle this error by providing appropriate feedback to the user, such as displaying a message indicating that administrative privileges are required and suggesting contact with the network administrator.
Related Errors
ERROR_ACCESS_DENIED(5) - Indicates general access restrictions without specifying the context of remote sessions.ERROR_SERVICE_DOES_NOT_EXIST(1060) - May occur if the service or component being installed is not found, but this error does not relate to permission issues during a remote session.
FAQ
Q: Why do I receive this error?
A: This error occurs when attempting to install or configure software on a server through a Terminal Services remote session without having administrative privileges. Contact your network administrator for assistance.
Q: Can this error be resolved by changing user permissions locally?
A: Yes, if the user has local administrative rights, they can perform the installation or configuration directly on the server machine instead of using a remote session.
Summary
The ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_DISALLOWED error code is used to indicate that an operation requiring administrative privileges cannot be performed during a Terminal Services remote session. Developers should handle this error by informing users about the required permissions and suggesting alternative methods for performing the task, such as direct access to the server.