Faced with the “VJoy failed to install” error on your Windows 11 device? Fret not! This issue has recently troubled a number of PC users who have complained that they are unable to install the open-source virtual joystick driver. Having gone into the root cause of the problem, I’m going to share the 15 best tips and tricks to fix the VJoy failed to install issue on Windows 11. Read on to…
Fix VJoy Failed to Install on Windows 11
So, what blocks the path of VJoy and prevents it from being installed on your PC? To be more precise, it arises due to a number of factors such has –
- Driver Conflict
- Outdated Drivers
- Corrupted Installer
- Antivirus Interference
- Windows Firewall
- Compatibility Issues
- Previous Installation
- Missing Dependencies
- Low Disk Space
- System File Corruption
Talking about the solutions that can bring the VJoy back on track, eliminating driver conflicts, fixing corrupted installers, and sorting out the system file corruption are very reliable. Besides, there are other viable fixes as well that are a bit radical. But bother not as they are all safe and don’t harm any of your media and data.
1. Restart Your PC
Many a time, a simple restart works wonders in eliminating miscellaneous issues including installation conflicts. So, make sure to give it a go.
- To get it done, make sure to first save your work and restart your PC.
- After that, try reinstalling VJoy after your PC has rebooted.

2. Run Installer as Administrator
It’s worth pointing out up front that granting admin permissions to VJoy can bypass restrictions and allow it to install without any hindrance.
- To do so, right-click the VJoy installer and select Run as administrator.
- After that, you have to follow the installation prompts to check if it completes successfully.
3. Check Windows Version Compatibility
Be warned that VJoy may not support older Windows builds. Therefore, be sure that your PC is running the supported version of the software.
- On your Windows device, press Windows + R, type winver, and hit Enter.
- Next, update Windows via Settings > Windows Update if needed.

4. Temporarily Disable Antivirus
Note that the third-party antivirus might also be blocking the VJoy installation on your Windows device.
- Open your antivirus software and disable real-time protection.
- Reinstall VJoy, then re-enable antivirus after installation.
5. Disable Windows Defender Firewall
Keep a close eye on the firewall as it could block the installer.
- Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Firewall & Network Protection.

- Click Turn Off Firewall for Public and Private networks, then retry installation.
6. Uninstall Previous VJoy Versions
Conflicting installations may cause issues.
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.

- Now, locate any older VJoy version and hit the triple-dot icon next to it.
- Click Uninstall, reboot your PC, and try installing the new version.
7. Run Windows Troubleshooter
Do not underestimate the Windows Troubleshooter as it can let you detect and fix VJoy installation-related errors.
- To do so, launch the Settings app on your PC > System > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters.

- Run the Program Compatibility Troubleshooter and follow the prompts.
8. Install VJoy in Safe Mode
Safe Mode prevents third-party services from interfering with the installation.
- Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and select the Boot tab.
- Check Safe Boot and restart your PC, then install VJoy in Safe Mode.
9. Manually Update Device Drivers
Outdated drivers may block VJoy’s functionality.
- Open Device Manager, expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers, and update drivers.
- Right-click your USB controller, select Update driver, and choose Search automatically for drivers.
10. Use Compatibility Mode
Running the installer in compatibility mode can resolve version mismatches.
- Right-click the VJoy installer, select Properties, and open the Compatibility tab.
- Check Run this program in compatibility mode and select an older Windows version.
11. Clean Boot Your PC
A clean boot prevents unnecessary background apps from interfering.
- On your PC, open msconfig, go to Services, check Hide all Microsoft services, and disable the rest.
- Restart your PC and try reinstalling VJoy.

12. Install Missing Dependencies
Missing .NET Framework or C++ Redistributables may cause installation issues. Therefore, it would apt to install the missing dependencies on your Windows device.
- Download the latest versions of .NET Framework and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables from Microsoft’s official website.
- Install them, restart your PC, and try installing VJoy again.
13. Check for Corrupted System Files
It’s also important to reiterate that corrupted system files can block installations.
- To begin with, launch the Command Prompt (Admin) and run sfc /scannow.
- Wait for the scan to repair any damaged system files and retry the installation.

14. Free Up Disk Space
Low storage may prevent the installer from running correctly.
- Go to Settings > Storage and delete unnecessary files.
- Use the Disk Cleanup tool to free up additional space.

15. Redownload the VJoy Installer
If you haven’t yet been able to resolve the problem, there is a decent chance that the installer file might be corrupted or incomplete.
- Visit the official VJoy website and download the latest version.
- Verify the file’s integrity and reinstall it.
Wrapping up…
There you go! By following these solutions, you should be able to fix the “VJoy failed to install” issue on Windows 11 and enjoy seamless virtual joystick functionality. If none of the methods work, I’d recommend to check for any specific error codes displayed during the installation process or reaching out to VJoy support for further assistance.