What is Java Error Code 1603: How to Fix it?

According to testing reported by Advyon, Java updates that attempt to install Java 8 over Java 7 failed with error code 1603 on 4 out of 5 test systems—an 80 % failure rate in that scenario We have a large number of Java-based apps installed on our systems. In order for our apps to work optimally, we need to keep the latest versions of Java. Depending on your settings, the majority of these apps will either automatically check for Java updates and download them for you or request your consent. However, when installing these Java updates, you may occasionally see an error code: 1603. 

This error code appears when a fatal problem occurs during the installation. An error message stating that you must terminate any apps that use Java will appear along with a list of the names of the applications. The error notice informs you that a Java-based program that is running in the background is the cause of the error. If Java-based software is running, the Java update will not be installed. Therefore, closing the application will resolve the issue. However, you should focus on other issues if the application specified during the error is not running in the background. There are a few possible reasons for this issue.

The first is that you are trying to install an application that is already installed. Naturally, this is for those who are installing Java without updating it. Insufficient or inappropriate permissions could potentially be the cause of the issue.

Finally, if the installation folder is encrypted, the error could also occur.

There are several methods that may work for you as there are a few factors that could contribute to this issue. So, go through each one until the issue is fixed.

Reasons for Java Error Code 1603

•    Since Java 8 no longer requires a separate .cab file, this error can occur if the installation file, such as data1.cab, is missing. There is a chance that an antivirus program may remove bundled files during Java deployment, which could cause the issue.
•    Java often tries to uninstall updates that are already part of the same family when installed. For example, it will remove Java 7 Update 71 when installing Java 7 Update 67.
•    Additionally, if the previous upgrade is not completely removed, the 1603 issue will eventually appear.
•    Additionally, this occurs when Java is running at the time of installation. This can happen when Java is running in the background of the browser when you try to deploy jre-7uxx-windowsxx.exe.
•    Error code 1603 is caused by the Java installation not having permission to access important system files. In order for the installation to run smoothly, it is necessary to resolve the permission issues.
•    The Java update process may be blocked by antivirus or security software, which sees it as a potential threat.

Ways to Fix Java Error Code 1603

There are a few ways to eliminate the error and address its causes. Troubleshooting can sometimes be quite time-consuming and frustrating, especially when it is difficult to identify the root cause. Since Fortect repair software can be used to fix the most common issues on Windows operating systems such as BSODs, DLL failures, registry issues, and more, we highly recommend that you run a scan with it in such a situation.

Method 1: Verify that the Java Version you are Installing is Correct

Verify that the Java version you are installing is compatible with your operating system. If you are using a 64-bit system, it is important to download 64-bit Java, not 32-bit. If you are not sure about the Windows version you are using, use this procedure:

•    Open Cortana.
•    With a similar method to the search box.
•    To find out if your system is 32-bit or 64-bit, select the “About your computer” option.

Method 2: Run Java as Administrator

•    Right-click on the Java installation.
•    Select "Run as administrator".
•    Open the setup guide and follow the on-screen instructions.
•    The Java error 1603 should no longer occur. Try the third method, however, if the problem persists.

Method 3: Remove the Old Version of Java

Error code 1603 can be resolved by uninstalling the old version of Java. You can download the Java uninstall program from the official website to accomplish this. Next, start the installation and follow the on-screen instructions.

You can also do it manually through the Control Panel, which requires you to remove it like any other software and then reinstall it.

Method 4: Disable your Antivirus Software

Java error 1603 can be caused by your antivirus program because security software often blocks Java. Thus, to install Java, you should temporarily turn off the security software:

•    To access the Task Manager, right-click on the taskbar.
•    Select your security program after opening the Startup tab.
•    To disable the antivirus software, click on the Disable option.
•    Try installing Java again after restarting your computer.

Method 5: Close Java-Enabled Programs

You should exit the browser and other Java-enabled apps after using Java installation. Otherwise, Java error 1603 may appear.

Method 6: Turn off Java Content

•    To launch the Run software, press Windows key + R.
•    In the Run box, type control panel.
•    In the window that appears, search for and launch Java.
•    Open the Security tab in the Java Control Panel.
•    In the browser checkbox, remove the check mark next to "Enable Java content".
•    To save the changes, click Apply and then OK.
•    Re-enable Java content in the browser after installing Java.

Method 7. Launch the Install and Uninstall Program Troubleshooter

•    Go to the official Microsoft website and download the Program Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter.
•    To start the troubleshooter, double-click the MicrosoftProgram_Install_and_Uninstall.meta.diagcab file.
•    In the window that appears, click Next, and then follow the on-screen instructions.

Method 8: Remove the KB2918614 Update for Windows

Update for Windows Many Windows 10 users are experiencing problems with Java installation and updates due to KB2918614. Removing this update may help resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

•    Press Windows key + R.
•    Type appwiz.cpl in the Run box that appears, and then click OK.
•    Click the View installed updates link in the left pane of the Programs and Features window.
•    You will be shown a list of installed updates. Search for KB2918614.
•    After selecting the Windows update KB2918614, click the "Uninstall" button.
•    After the uninstallation is finished, restart your computer to see if the Java error 1603 is resolved.

Compatibility Check for Java installation

The Java you are trying to install is not compatible with your Windows version. This mainly affects Windows 10 users. You should first check what the Java package you are trying to install requires. Second, make sure that your Windows 10 version is compatible with Java by checking its details. The methods listed below can be used to determine your Windows version.

•    By right-clicking on the Windows symbol from the toolbar, you can go to “Settings”.
•    You should select “System” from the settings menu.
•    Next, you select the “About” tab.
•    Here, you can see information about your system’s hardware and software types, as well as the Windows version under “System type”.
•    At this point, you can verify whether this is the correct version of Java.

Conclusion

In conclusion, discussing Java Error Code 1603 requires a planned strategy that considers permissions, conflicts, and file integrity concerns. Use these practical fixes to overcome the obstacles caused by Error Code 1603, ensuring a smooth Java installation or upgrade process. Keep yourself updated, troubleshoot diligently, and enjoy the process of Java programming.