Installing Skype failed; code 1638 when trying to upgrade Skype

Question

My Skype version is 6.20.0.104. When I open it on Windows 8.1 with Update, it cues me to upgrade:

The latest version of Skype is ready to install now. It won't take long to upgrade - and you'll get all the latest improvements and fixes.

After going through the next > next > next of the upgrade, Skype complains as follows.

Another version of this product is already installed. Installation of this version cannot continue. To configure or remove the existing version of this product, use Add/Remove Programs in

When looking in Add/Remove Programs, Skype is not listed:

How can I upgrade Skype to get all the latest improvements and fixes?

Answer 1

Windows installer could not find Skype in installed software list and hence the error.
I was able to resolve this issue after uninstalling Skype by manipulating MSI file available at C:\ProgramData\Skype\65DDDF6CCAB61F017E87A987E1BBB31DA098BBA6\

1. Open Command Prompt in Administrator mode
   
2. Navigate to C:\ProgramData\Skype\65DDDF6CCAB61F017E87A987E1BBB31DA098BBA6
3. Run msiexex /x skype.msi
4. Re-install Skype

Answer 2

well .. i tried with Microsoft Fixit .. not helping.

I just looked for the latest SkypeSetup.msi installer file from here: http://www.skype.com/go/getskype-msi

1. Download the file.
2. right click msi file and select "uninstall"
3. remove all skype files from folders "Program Files", "Program Data" and %temp%
4. right click msi file and select "install"
5. VIOLA! I ve installed latest Skype and it is listed in Control Panel/Program as well.

Good luck.

Answer 3

I was able to uninstall Skype by running the Microsoft Fixit - Fix problems that programs cannot be installed or uninstalled. Simply follow the onscreen instructions to uninstall Skype. Then download and reinstall the most recent Skype version.