SSDT for Visual Studio 2017 – Fixing the Install Error

There is an odd error when trying to install SQL Server Data Tools (SSDT), either as a stand-alone or added to an instance of Visual Studio 2017.   In order to develop SQL Server Integration Services (SSIS) packages for Azure Data factory v2, I needed to install the SSDT on a workstation and a number of developer workstations at a client site. I had the same setup failure, no matter what configuration I was using. The Setup Failed screen referenced an install log, and all failed with roughly the same error, as shown below.

Note: These steps worked for me, and I cannot guarantee that this will solve your issue.

When Installing SSDT for Visual Studio 2017, I normally select all the options or even just the SQL Server Integration Services, many times only to have it return in failure. The errors will vary, with most of the time, the return is that a path is too long. All show in the log that is returned that the EXE Failed to execute the package.

After some R&D, I was able to get the setup working with the help of a community post on Stack Overflow from last year !! This article details the steps I used to get these tools installed in more detail.

First, Download and save the SSDT-Setup-ENU.exe package to a directory with a short path; I used C:\SSDT as this will not be the last time I do this. Then open an Administrator: Command Prompt using a right-click on the command prompt menu item. (I know, if you are doing this you already know this, but I feel it was missing from my notes.)

From the Administrative Command Prompt, execute the following command; SSDT-Setup-ENU.exe /layout, which will download the install files to the folder in which you run the command.

The Screen will show Installation Progress as if it were installed. However, it is just downloading the files. A Setup Completed screen will display when complete.

After you get the setup complete screen, you will see the following file list in the c:\SSDT directory.

In the C:\SSDT\redist folder, run the file/double click NDP461-KB3102438-Web.exe if you do not have the correct .NET framework installed and reboot after this is complete. If you run it anyway, you will get the message below that the package is already installed.

In the C:\SSDT\payload folder, the directory should contain the files listed below.

Run the file, double click on the vsta_setup.exe. You should see the following, Select Install.

Once the application starts to apply, you will see the following screen, click Install.

When complete, run the Visual Studio Add-Ins you require.

Let’s start with the Integration Services by running, double click, Microsoft.DataTools.IntegrationServices, click Install.

Each package will display a success.

Repeat this process to install other packages.

Once complete, open Visual Studio 2017 and go to create a new project. You should see the following under the Business Intelligence section.

If all was successful, you should be ready to go. These all worked on the workstations.

Happy Developing !!!!!

Steve