Software⏱️ 3 min read📅 2026-06-11

How to Fix: Python installation error (1fc8b3b9a1e18e3b)

Python installation error on Windows 7 Professional Service Pack 1

Quick Answer: Try installing the Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable package for your version of Python.

The error 'An Error occurred during the installation of assembly Microsoft.VC90.CRT, version="9.0.21022.8" publicKeyToken="1fc8b3b9a1e18e3b", processorArchitecture="x86", type="win32"' occurs when the Python installer is unable to find or install the required Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable package (Microsoft.VC90.CRT) for a 64-bit version of Windows, even though you are using a 32-bit operating system. This error affects users who attempt to install Python on 32-bit versions of Windows.

This error can be frustrating because it prevents the user from successfully installing Python, which is necessary for various applications and scripts. Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to resolve this issue.

⚠️ Common Causes

  • The primary reason for this error is that the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable package (Microsoft.VC90.CRT) was not installed on your system. This package is required by the Python installer to function correctly.
  • An alternative cause of this error could be that the Windows Update service is not configured correctly, or the package is corrupted during installation.

🔧 Proven Troubleshooting Steps

Installing the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable Package

  1. Step 1: Download the Microsoft Visual C++ 2008 Redistributable Package from the official Microsoft website.
  2. Step 2: Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  3. Step 3: Once installed, restart your system and attempt to install Python again.

Configuring Windows Update

  1. Step 1: Open the Control Panel in Windows and navigate to "Programs and Features" (in Windows 7) or "Add or Remove Programs" (in Windows XP).
  2. Step 2: Check if any updates are available for installation. If so, install them according to the prompts.
  3. Step 3: If no updates are available, restart your system and check again after it has finished booting.

🎯 Final Words

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the error 'An Error occurred during the installation of assembly Microsoft.VC90.CRT' and successfully install Python on your 32-bit version of Windows. If you continue to experience issues, consider seeking further assistance from a qualified IT professional.

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