Getting error: "This MSI must be run by the installer framework" when trying to reinstall a product in NS

Products

• Deployment Solution

Issue/Introduction

We have a product component in NS that failed to install correctly, like Deployment Solution, DeployAnywhere, Backup Exec, or some other component.  We have removed it because it was broken, but when we try to run the MSI, it fails with the following error:

"This MSI must be run by the installer framework."

 

Cause

The MSI was built to be run within the Symantec Installation Manager (SIM), formerly known as the Altiris Installation Manager or AIM.  It looks to see if it's being called from with that product, and if not, exits with this message.

Resolution

NOTE:  The SIM is designed to know about what products are to be installed in what order, where, and with what switches.  Therefore, it is not recommended you should ever run one of the installation MSI's stand-alone. 

If you are positive you know what you are doing and are willing to take the risk, there is a way past that check.  The installer looks for "skipaim" and if present, will allow the installer to run. Hence, if you need to install something, try this:

msiexec /i altiris.xxxxxxxxxxxx.msi skipaim=1

That should get you past the error.