devenv_workaround.md

Visual Studio devenv Installation Workaround

This guide addresses the error encountered during Visual Studio installation:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_BLOCK_CROSS_PROTOCOL_FILE_NAVIGATION
Verify that you have sufficient access to that key, or contact your support personnel.

Purpose

The error occurs because the installer cannot read the registry key controlling Internet Explorer’s cross-protocol file navigation feature. This workaround temporarily grants read access so the installer can proceed.

Steps

1. Download PsExec Download SysInternals PsExec from Microsoft: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/sysinternals/downloads/psexec

2. Open Registry Editor as SYSTEM Run the following command from an elevated command prompt: PsExec.exe -s -i regedit.exe

3. Navigate to the Key In Registry Editor, go to: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Internet Explorer\Main\FeatureControl\FEATURE_BLOCK_CROSS_PROTOCOL_FILE_NAVIGATION

4. Adjust Permissions

   • Right-click the key → Permissions.
   • Add EVERYONE and grant Read access only.
   • Click OK to apply.

5. Run Visual Studio Installer With the permissions temporarily adjusted, the installer should proceed without errors.

6. Restore Permissions After installation, remove the EVERYONE entry or restore the original permissions to maintain system security.

Notes

• Only read access is required; never grant full control.
• This workaround should only be applied temporarily.
• If the key FEATURE_BLOCK_CROSS_PROTOCOL_FILE_NAVIGATION doesn't exist, you can just create it yourself.