Symptoms

"Cannot determine SQL Server version" error reported when installing Windows DS-Client

Cause

There was an existing MS SQL Server instance installed on this machine and it most probably hasn't removed properly

Workaround

In some cases, when you uninstall Microsoft SQL Server, some components may be left behind. This could prevent the proper re-installation of Microsoft SQL Server, or interfere with its normal operation.

To remedy this issue, these orphaned components can be manually removed, as follows.

1- Uninstall an Existing Instance of SQL Server (Setup)

2- Delete the directory, C:\Program Files\Microsoft SQL Server.

3- Run regedit from Windows search or a CMD prompt.

4- Rename or remove the key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE>Software>Microsoft>Microsoft SQL Server. For 64 bit operating systems, also remove the key HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE>Software>Wow6432Node>Microsoft SQL Server.