This application has failed to start because MSVCR80.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem.

Question

I recently tried to download the latest version of iTunes, but an error occured during the process. It was recommended that i reinstall iTunes to attempt to correct that problem. After I attempted to reinstall, an error came up with the title "iTunes.exe - Unable to locate component." the body of the error message read "This application  has failed to start because MSVCR80.dll was not found. Reinstalling the application may fix this problem." When I click "Ok", another error message pops-up reading "iTunes was not installed correctly. Please reinstall iTunes. Error 7 (Windows error 126)". I tried reinstalling iTunes 3 times now, each time with the same result. What is going wrong, and what do I need to do?

Answer 1

Kappy, I completely overlooked your original response due to it's small, one line nature and poor UX design of the area surrounding the message area.
Upon following the complete instructions linked from the link you posted (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1923?viewlocale=en_US&locale=en_US), my first attempt resulted in everything being installed except for iTunes. So trying yet again.
I do have Safari for Windows Vista installed, which is why I could not delete everything in the C:\Program Files\Common Files\Apple\ folder. I'm guessing this is Apple's way of completely removing Safari Win from history (there's always an under-the-table reason when something like this happens with Apple installs, they just won't say it publicly). Uninstalling Safari. Uninstalling Safari removes the remaining "Internet" files from C:\Program Files\Common Files\Apple\
Uninstalling iCloud. Uninstalling MobileMe Control Panel that was never used. That leaves only QuickTime installed as an Apple product on my machine.
Just for the record, I did not have this folder: C:\Program Files\iPod\
Emptied the Recycling Bin.
Shut down and fresh start-up.
Install attempt again: results in the installer saying something interrupted it (no other programs open)
Installing again immediately after error: Success
Clearly there are issues with this installer.
A pop-up shows up with "The registry settings used by the iTunes drives for importing and burning CDs and DVDs are missing. This can happen as a result of installing other CD burining software. Please reinstall iTunes"
No other CD burning software installed other than what came pre-installed by Gateway and a install of Windows Vista Pro (or whatever the top expensive one was called).
iTunes launched. iTunes Library, items like Movies & Music, and playlists are still intact and usable.
Good thing I don't have these issues on my Macs (ahem, which is why these errors are allowed to persist by Apple to discourage Microsoft/Windows/PC use and purchase, all about the money and Apple has become the non-caring giant it once sought to overthrow as the underdog, miss those days).
Thanks Kappy. Thanks for the time suck Apple.