This is a problem which arises when you try to install or remove a Microsoft application. It could be a copy of Microsoft Word, the latest Microsoft Digital Image Pro or even Outlook. For a full list of the affected programs, take a look at the Microsoft website under instructions for Error 1606.

The error is usually the result of a corrupted Windows registry. This isn’t immediately apparent when you receive the error, which will appear as seen below:

“Error 1606: Could Not Access Network Location”

To fix the problem, you have two choices. One is manual, and one is automated. You can download a free registry cleaning utility and run a thorough scan of your system. This will take note of the missing settings and correct them where necessary.

Alternatively, if you have a little more technical know-how, you can access the registry and adjust the settings yourself. Be warned though, tampering with the Windows registry and configuring settings inappropriately can result in even more problems, and in some cases, a corrupted copy of Windows altogether! Yes, editing the registry CAN seriously damage your system if you don’t know what you’re doing.

We would suggest that you take the safe route of downloading a free registry cleaner and letting it fix your problem. But if you’re feeling adventurous, here’s how to get rid of the error manually.

• Go to Start, Run, and then type “regedit” in the dialogue.
• When the Registry Editor opens, locate your way to:
  HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\
  CurrentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders
• View the table below and ensure that all of the entries match up to those of your own registry.

If any of the entries don’t match what you see in the table;

• Delete the value.
• Right click on User Shell Folders, go to New and then Expandable String Value.
• Enter the name value in accordance with the matching name value in the table above.
• Now right click on the new entry and go to Modify.
• Type the new value in the Value Data box.
• Click OK

Follow the same procedure to correct the values in:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\
CurentVersion\Explorer\User Shell Folders

This should clear up any future Error 1606 problems. Remember to save the registry and restart your computer for the new settings to take effect. And whenever you’re editing the Windows Registry, as ever, it’s a good idea to make a back-up in case something goes wrong.

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