You receive a "Setup cannot continue because this version of the .NET Framework is incompatible" error message after you install WinFX and try to uninstall the .NET Framework 2.0 (906894)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0
  • Microsoft WinFX Runtime Components 3.0

Notice

The error message that this article discusses contains a link to an incorrect Microsoft Knowledge Base article. This article replaces article 321500, which is referenced in the error message.

SYMPTOMS

After you install Microsoft WinFX Runtime Components 3.0 on a computer that has the Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0 installed, you may not be able to uninstall the .NET Framework 2.0. You may receive an error message that is similar to the following:
Setup cannot continue because this version of the .NET Framework is incompatible with a previously installed one. For more information, see http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q321/5/00.asp.

CAUSE

This problem occurs because the .NET Framework is part of the WinFX technology. WinFX will not function correctly if you remove the .NET Framework 2.0.

RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, uninstall WinFX before you uninstall the .NET Framework 2.0.

MORE INFORMATION

Steps to reproduce the problem

  1. On a computer that is running Microsoft Windows Server 2003, install WinFX.
  2. Uninstall the .NET Framework 2.0. To do this, follow these steps:
    1. Click Start, click Run, type appwiz.cpl in the Open box, and then click OK.
    2. In the Add or Remove Programs dialog box, click Microsoft .NET Framework 2.0, and then click Change/Remove. You receive the error message that is mentioned in the "Symptoms" section.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:9/29/2005
Keywords:kbVideoTech kbuninstall kbtshoot kbprb KB906894 kbAudITPRO kbAudDeveloper
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.