Can't enable or install .NET Framework 3.5 in Windows 8.1 PRO 64-bit

Anonymous
2014-02-08T14:22:54+00:00

I continually receive the message in a dialogue that

"Windows couldn't complete the requested changes.

The system cannot find the file specified.

Error code: 0x80070002"

I have not been able to find my way around it.  Running on a 4770K system with fresh install, only user, and with Admin privileges, and usually running Command and many other programs as Administrator.

Can't turn 3.5 on through Control Panel "Turn Windows features on or off", although .NET Framework 4.5 Advanced Services IS enabled.

No success either, using installers provided with programs that require that version of .NET.  As they do require it, I am hoping to get this resolved.

No success with DISM method of scanhealth & restorehealth, although these run OK.

No success with DISM method to install from distribuion CD, mounted ISO, or folder Sources\sxs folder copied to hard drive (including using /LimitAccess switch).

I haven't been able to figure out from looking at the DISM and CBS logs what might be missing.

No success changing server or path in Administrative Templates, etc. regarding Windows Update, for installing components.

No success from .NET full download or stub from Microsoft website.

Microsoft's Windows Update fix-it tool doesn't come up with a solution, either, or point to the culprit with any useful detail.

I've tried to be reasonably methodical in working this out, but I still don't seem to be getting anywhere.

ANY SUGGESTIONS, PLEASE?

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Anonymous
2017-04-28T11:28:29+00:00

Hi everyone,

I solved the problem .Just copy  the single  file from sxs folder of windows 10 dvd or iso to your local drive.

Extract this file using winrar.

Now run DISM command wih administrator privilege  with extracted folder as a source path

Ex.

dism / online /Enable-Feature /featurename:NetFx3 /All /Source:D:Sources\sxs

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  1. Anonymous
    2014-09-05T02:29:21+00:00

    OP here.  Still no luck for me.  Glad the workaround is successful for so many of you having the install problem.  Again, unfortunately for me, I do not have those updates (apparently not required for my version) and therefore cannot uninstall them to move forward.  Still have to use an XP machine to run certain software (such as CCExtractorGUI.exe).

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  2. Anonymous
    2014-09-06T21:38:31+00:00

    I am running a Windows 8.1 Pro x64 system and I can confirm that this is a valid method 

    Uninstalled those updates and boom! worked like a charm Thank You!

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  3. Anonymous
    2014-09-08T17:33:08+00:00

    Found link that identifies two Windows Updates as the problem if DISM and the offline installer do not work.  Uninstall  KB2966826 and KB2966828, then try installing 3.5 from programs and features.  It worked for me.

    http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/201700-cant-install-net-framework-35-on-a-windows-81-computer/

    Thanks, worked perfectly for me, Win 8.1 via an upgrade from 7 to 8 to 8.1

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  4. Anonymous
    2014-09-09T19:38:43+00:00

    Legend!! It took me all day to find this post but a few grey hairs later and its sorted, thankyou so much lol

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