Why cant i download adobe reader to windows 10

July 29, 2020

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Hi Richard,

As per the description, I understand that you are unable to install Adobe reader as it says, newer version already installed. We will assist you to resolve the issue.

To assist you better, I would like to know whether you have installed any version of Adobe reader in the past and have you installed any third party security applications on the computer?

As an initial troubleshooting step, I suggest you to place the computer in a Clean boot state and check if it helps to resolve the issue.

Clean boot helps eliminate software conflicts. Follow the Microsoft KB article to perform clean boot on the computer:

How to perform a clean boot to troubleshoot a problem in Windows 8, Windows 7, or Windows Vista http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135

Applies to Windows 10

Disclaimer: After you have finished troubleshooting, follow these steps from section “How to reset the computer to start as usual after clean boot troubleshooting” to reset the computer to start as usual.  

Hope the information helps. Let us know if you need further assistance. We will be happy to help.

Thank you.

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Hi Krishna

I did as follows:

1.  I removed my successful installation in c:/Adobe using the Adobe installer package.

2.  I carried out a clean boot as per your advice.

3.  I reinstalled Adobe Reader XI in the default location, ie Program Files (x86).

4.  The install was successful but when I tried to run it I got "Problem with shortcut - Fatal error during installation".

5.  I removed it again and reinstalled it back in c:/Adobe and this works.

I noticed that when I removed the package using the Adobe install program it complained I had insufficient privileges (but it still removed it).  I think this is something to do with privileges/permissions on the Program Files (x86) directory.  The fact that I can install it elsewhere but not there would seem to point to that.  Also, when I have installed it in Program Files (x86) (but it hasn't worked), I have not been able to enter Program Files (x86)\Adobe\Reader.  It required me to say I am administrator and then to make myself owner at lower directories to access them.  Something not right there as I can access the whole of my new c:/Adobe file structure.   I am the administrator on this PC btw.  

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Hi Krishna.

I fixed my own problem in a way that leaves me a little perplexed (see my response below).  Do you have any idea what's going on here?

Richard

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