win32 application error message

when ever I now try to install new programs I get the message not a valid win32 application has anyone any idea what may be causing this or of a fix?

windows xp home sp2

 

http://www.google.com/search?source...04-29,GGLD:en&q=not+a+valid+win32+application


read through some of these. the first 2 may be what you are looking for

 

ok Thankyou I have tried most of those suggestions but still have same problem!!

 

Basically it generally means that you have an incorrect version of the program for your operating system. Maybe you are trying to install or run a windows98 version on an XP machine for example.

http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000726.htm

is probably clearest on this matter;

It is also possible that the last thing you tried to install prior to the problem occuring altered the windows installer. The big problem here is that the only way to replace the windows installer is to do a repair install or install the latest service pack (which installs an updated windows installer).

 

could also mean that u'r installers are corrupt.

 

ok well thanks I think maybe we are on to something there as at one point I just remember I had a message saying that the software was only good for windows xp or 2000 which was kind of weird as I was running it on a xp machine which ties in with the corrupted installer suggestions, what would be the easiest way to sort this Guys?

is it a repair install Or?

Many thanks