How To Fix Spotify Could Not Be Started Error Code 17

Spotify is one of the most popular music streaming services, but sometimes users may encounter issues such as the “Could not be started (Error code 17)” message when attempting to install or launch the Spotify application on their computer.

This error typically occurs due to issues with the system’s ability to launch the installer or the application itself, often related to Windows system-specific conflicts.

The full error will read, “Spotify Installer Spotify could not be started. (Error Code: 17)”.

In this article, we will be showing you all the fixes that will help you to solve the issue of “Spotify could not be started error code 17” without any hassle.

How To Fix Spotify Could Not Be Started Error Code 17?

To fix Spotify could not be started error code 17, you can start Windows in safe mode with networking, repair Spotify and make sure the Windows installer service is running. Additionally, you can also update Windows to fix the issue.

1. Start Windows In Safe Mode With Networking

One of the most recommended solutions for fixing error code 17 is to start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking. This mode starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services, which can help avoid conflicts that might be causing the error.

1. Reboot your computer and immediately start pressing F8 during the initial boot sequence until you get the Safe Mode Menu.
2. Select ‘Safe mode with Networking‘ and press Enter.
3. Once in Safe Mode, try installing or launching Spotify again.

2. Repair Or Reset The Spotify App

If you are using Windows 10 or later, you can try repairing or resetting the Spotify app.

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Select Apps > Installed apps.
3. Type Spotify in the search field at the top.
4. Click on Spotify and then select Advanced options.
5. Click on the Repair button. If that doesn’t work, try the Reset button.

3. Ensure Windows Installer Service Is Running

The Windows Installer service is essential for installing new applications. Make sure it’s running properly.

1. Press Windows key + R, type “services.msc” into the Run dialog, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down the list of services until you find the ‘Windows Installer’ service.
3. Check if the service status is running. If not, right-click on the service and select ‘Start’. If it’s already running, right-click and choose ‘Restart’.

4. Update Windows

Outdated system files can cause various issues, including error code 17. Ensuring that your Windows operating system is up-to-date can solve these problems.

1. Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Click on Windows Update.
4. Click on ‘Check for updates’ and install any available updates.

5. Disable Antivirus And Firewall Temporarily

Sometimes, security software can mistakenly identify Spotify’s installer as a threat. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall can help determine if this is causing the issue.

1. Open your antivirus application and look for an option to disable or pause protection temporarily.
2. Similarly, to disable the Windows Firewall, go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall and turn it off temporarily.

Note: Always remember to re-enable your antivirus and firewall protection after testing.

6. Clean Boot Your Computer

Performing a clean boot for your computer can help identify if third-party applications are causing conflicts.

1. Press Windows key + R, type “msconfig” and press Enter to open System Configuration.
2. Go to the ‘Services‘ tab, check ‘Hide all Microsoft services‘, and then click ‘Disable all’.
3. Switch to the ‘Startup‘ tab and click on ‘Open Task Manager’.
4. In the Task Manager, disable all startup items.
5. Restart your computer and then try installing or launching Spotify.

7. Manually Download And Install Spotify

If the Spotify installer is not working, you can try downloading the full installation package manually.

1. Visit the official Spotify website and download the latest version of the Spotify installation package.
2. Once downloaded, right-click on the installer and choose ‘Run as administrator’.
3. Follow the installation prompts to complete the installation.

8. Check For Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can also lead to error code 17. You can use the System File Checker (SFC) to repair these files.

1. Press Windows key + X and select ‘Windows PowerShell (Admin)’ or ‘Command Prompt (Admin)’.
2. Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter.
3. The SFC tool will scan for corrupted system files and attempt to fix them. This process may take some time, so be patient.
4. Once the scan is complete, restart your computer and try running Spotify again.

9. Contact Spotify Support

If you’ve tried all the above steps and are still facing issues with Spotify error code 17, it may be time to reach out to Spotify Support for assistance. They can provide more in-depth troubleshooting or inform you if there’s a known issue with the Spotify app.