Install fails due to error opening a Registry Key

[Dennis6232]

When I try to install on a new copy of WinXP Publisher 2002 which has
previously run ok, it stops and states that perhaps I am not the
administrator (not true) and that it can't open the Registry Key
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Classes\.pps\PersistantHandler

I can see this key is not set on my machine, as I have no other office
products installed now.

 

[Mary Sauer]

Do a virus/malware scan. I tried finding a definitive answer for you, I read
many articles, most of which seemed to suggest a scan would help.

Has Publisher 2002 been installed on this computer before? Are you
overwriting an old installation?

Might try the CleanUp Utility:
Description of the Windows Installer CleanUp Utility
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/290301