I know this would better fit the software forum, but I post here due to higher frequency ...
 
Sonar X2a installs a C++ redistributable package (I would assume the one that it's been tested with extensively). Now, other programs and plug-ins sometimes also fire up (automatically) the installation of a C++ package, which may be older / newer than Sonar's C++ pack. Hence, I'm always a bit worried to give new software (or even some updates) a try when I realize that they mess with the system files.
 
What do I do if that happens, like if I realize that after installing some new VSTs, the system stability has been gone south. Is it enough to uninstall the VST using the windows uninstall (is it that easy?) or do I have to go to my external backups and rebuild to get the old system back???
 
 

Well, sometimes you can either re-install the redistributable libraries that got affected, or if needed you could re-install software that got affected, and lots of times if you re-install software, it will install any versions of things it needs, restoring balance to the universe once again.

That's how it USUALLY goes.

The X2a update DOES require Windows 7 to have SP1 installed, so make sure that is in place prior to doing the X2a update.

Post any problems if any arise, and we will collectively get you sorted out again.  :)

X2a is WELL worth installing.

Bob Bone

Thanks, Bob

I have got X2a installed and working well, I'm just a bit worried of breaking the stable streak I got at the moment. Hence, the question how to get back the working environment if some other software installer breaks it ...

Anyway, what you indicate is not so good news. I had hoped it would be easier to rollback to a previously working state.

It is not possible to say what every installer out there will do, but if the C++ libraries are your only concern, a properly done install will leave existing versions in place. Windows should be able to run fine with multiple versions of those libraries installed.

An un-install may or may not remove all of the registry entries that the installation made, and will frequently leave files behind. Sometimes removing data or configuration files and folders is an option on the uninstall screen so look for it. By default Windows will set a restore point when it recognizes a new installation., but you can manually set one prior to the installation to be sure. Uninstalling and reverting to a restore point prior to the installation should clean the registry.

Of course if your installer and uninstaller are totally non-standard you can still have problems. Freeware is the most common culprit here. Before you install, check the available documentation to see how the developer recommend un-installation.

Thanks for the info. That makes it clearer ... although my fear of freeware remains ;-)

I've just figured out how to set these manual restore points; that should help!

Sonar is developed using c++
 C++ redistributable package  thats why you need this package better use the one they recommend. I have loads of different C++ installed and no issues

Dependencies on external software like the C++ redistributables and .Net Framework etc co-exist at different version levels without stepping on each others toes.

Same in a sense like SONAR's various versions can happily co-exist on the same system as their installations remain separate even though some plugins and utilities can be shared.

FreeFlyBertl


Thanks for the info. That makes it clearer ... although my fear of freeware remains ;-)

I've just figured out how to set these manual restore points; that should help!

Don't rely on Windows Restore points to get yourself back to your happy place.


Once your system is stable use something like Acronis to create a disc image. This can restore you in a matter of minutes

Bristol_Jonesey


Once your system is stable use something like Acronis to create a disc image. This can restore you in a matter of minutes

+1 for Acronis.  I'm a long time registered user, it's been a real life-saver for me.
 
For reference: http://www.acronis.co.uk/homecomputing/products/trueimage/#overview