I wanted to install the SharpReader RSS Aggregator for Windows. Unfortunately, like many other Windows RSS readers out there, it requires .NET framework 1.1. You know, Microsoft’s takeoff on Java that combines the large footprint and installation hassles of a bulky VM [err, “CLR”] with their legendary security vulnerabilities. Let’s get this puppy installed!

Step 1: Go to Windows Update and try to install .NET framework.

This should be easy enough; Windows Update usually works okay. Oh wait, it failed with error code 80246005. WTF is error 80246005?!? How is it acceptable for modern software to print an error code like that with no explanation? Was there no room in the >1 GB Windows distribution for an error message? Clip-It will wipe the drool from your chin as it helps you try to change fonts in Word, and yet Microsoft still doesn’t have the technology to supply useful error messages.

Step 2: Try to install other critical updates. (Dependency problem?)

As expected, same error.

Step 3: Follow link to Windows Update installation history to try to get an explanation of error 80246005.

“Failed” link in status column pops up an empty window. Huh, let’s click it again. This time, I get boilerplate text that repeats the error code and contains generic links to the knowledge base and support, but provides no explanation or useful information. Couldn’t they at least decode the fields in the OLE error code for me?

Step 4: Search for error 80246005 in MS Knowledge base.

As usual, no documents found.

Step 5: Google for 80246005.

Also as usual, Google comes through with numerous relevant hits. Apparently, no problem is too common for Microsoft to ignore. Anyway, Ali’s Knowledge Base contains a simple workaround. I love you, Ali.

Step 6: Try to install .NET framework again.

After several minutes of grinding the hard drive like a rock tumbler, I have a shiny new .NET installation. Or at least I will after the beloved Windows restart.

Step 7: Install .NET framework 1.1 Service Pack 1.

Are you kidding? Why didn’t you just send me an updated version to begin with? Is your packaging technology really that cumbersome? Fine, go ahead and install it. And of course you want another restart…

Step 8: Security Update for Microsoft .NET Framework, Version 1.1 Service Pack 1 (KB886903)?

Unbelievable! Another install and restart to have a .NET installation that doesn’t “allow an attacker to compromise your Windows-based system running the Microsoft .NET Framework and gain access to restricted data”!

Step 9: Install SharpReader.

It works great, but was it worth it?