Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-19

How to Fix Error 2738 Error – Error 2738 could not access VBScript run time for custom action

Error 2738 Error – Error 2738 could not access VBScript run time for custom action - McAfee antivirus removal issue.

Quick Answer: Reinstall the .msi installer or reinstall McAfee antivirus to resolve the error.

Error 2738 could not access VBScript run time for custom action is an error message that occurs when you try to use a .msi installer on your laptop machine. This issue affects users who have recently removed McAfee antivirus from their system and are experiencing this error message each time they attempt to install or update software using the .msi installer.

This error can be frustrating, especially if you're trying to install essential software for work or personal use. However, don't worry! In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to resolve this issue and get back to using your .msi installers without any hassle.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The first main reason why this error happens is due to the removal of McAfee antivirus from your system. When you remove McAfee, it also removes its associated VBScript runtime files, which are required for custom actions in .msi installers. This can cause the Error 2738 message to appear when you try to use a .msi installer.
  • An alternative reason for this error could be that there's an issue with the VBScript runtime files on your system. Even if you haven't removed McAfee, if the VBScript runtime files are corrupted or not installed correctly, it can still cause this error message.

✅ Best Solutions to Fix It

Reinstalling McAfee Antivirus

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Download and install the latest version of McAfee antivirus from the official website. Make sure to select the option to reinstall any removed software during the installation process.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Once the installation is complete, restart your laptop machine to ensure that all changes take effect.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: After restarting, try using the .msi installer again to see if the error message persists.

Installing VBScript Runtime Files

  1. Step 1: Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by searching for 'cmd' in the Start menu and right-clicking on it, then selecting 'Run as administrator'.
  2. Step 2: Step 2: Type the following command and press Enter to install the VBScript runtime files: `wusa /uninstall /kb:2738`.
  3. Step 3: Step 3: Restart your laptop machine to ensure that all changes take effect. Then, try using the .msi installer again to see if the error message persists.

🎯 Final Words

That's it! By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the Error 2738 'could not access VBScript run time for custom action' issue and get back to using your .msi installers without any hassle. Remember to always keep your software up-to-date and consider reinstalling McAfee antivirus or installing VBScript runtime files if you encounter this error message in the future.

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