ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_PROHIBITED - 1645 (0x66D)
The Windows Installer does not permit installation from a Remote Desktop Connection.
Updated: Feb 21, 2026
Technical Meaning
This error code indicates that the Windows Installer is preventing an installation operation from being performed over a Remote Desktop Connection. The installer has enforced a policy or restriction that disallows remote installations.
Error Details
The specific context in which this error occurs involves the Windows Installer attempting to perform an installation through a Remote Desktop session, but encountering a prohibition due to system settings or policies configured to restrict such actions.
Usage Context
This error is typically encountered when an administrator or user attempts to install software on a remote machine via Remote Desktop. The installer may have been invoked from the local machine, but the operation is being performed remotely, which triggers this error.
Developer Interpretation
Developers should be aware that this error signifies a policy restriction rather than a technical failure in the installation process itself. It indicates that the system configuration does not allow installations to proceed over Remote Desktop connections for security or administrative reasons.
Related Errors
- ERROR_INSTALL_NETWORK_REQUIRED (1605, 0x64D): This error may be encountered if the installer requires network access and it is not available during a remote installation attempt.
- ERROR_INSTALL_USEREXIT (1623, 0x67B): This error might occur if an interactive user prompt is required but cannot be displayed over Remote Desktop.
FAQ
Q: Why does this error occur?
A: The Windows Installer has been configured to prohibit installations from remote sessions for security reasons. This restriction can be enforced by group policies or system settings.
Q: Can I bypass this error?
A: Bypassing this error typically requires administrative changes, such as modifying group policy settings or adjusting system configurations to allow remote installations. However, doing so may compromise the security of the system.
Summary
The ERROR_INSTALL_REMOTE_PROHIBITED (1645) error indicates that a Windows Installer operation is being restricted due to remote session policies. Developers should understand this as a policy enforcement rather than an operational failure and handle it accordingly in their application logic.