How to fix
HP Software Framework is not installed in the System
on Windows

Hello. Recently, I received an error that says "HP Software Framework is not installed in the System." How do I fix it?

People who own an HP laptop or a desktop computer may encounter the "HP Software Framework is not installed in the System" error. Most of the time, the error appears when trying to use the function keys[ref en-1] to perform tasks like adjusting the screen brightness, and sound volume, or putting the device to sleep. The full error message reads as follows:

Error: HP Software Framework is not installed in the System.

Please download and install from the link - ftp://ftp.hp.com/pub/caps-softpaq/cmit/softpaq/CASLSetup.exe

NOTE: Restart system after installation.

The message clearly states that HP Software Framework is missing from the system or for some reason does not recognize that it is installed. It is unknown why exactly this might happen. Since it is responsible for allowing to function important hotkeys, finding the solution is necessary.

In this guide, you will find 4 steps that should help you fix the "HP Software Framework is not installed in the System" error. However, manual troubleshooting can be a lengthy process so you can also use a maintenance tool like [d1]. It can fix most system errors, BSODs,[ref en-2] corrupted files, and registry[ref en-3] issues. Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions below carefully.

Solution 1. Reinstall the HP Support Assistant

A corrupt HP Support Assistant installation may be the reason why the error appears. Try to reinstall it to see if it solves the issue.

• Press the Windows key + I key to open Settings
• Click on Apps and then on Apps & Features
• Locate the HP Support Solution Framework
• Tap on it and click Uninstall 
• Visit the HP Support Assistant webpage
• Find the Download HP Support Assistant icon to install it

• Restart your system after installation

Solution 2. Install the HP Hotkey Support Driver

If you are missing crucial drivers that are responsible for keeping your system running smoothly, you should install them as soon as possible. For driver installation and updates, you can also use an automatic tool like [rev id="DriverFix"]. It can find the best drivers for your system and install them.

• Press the Windows key + R to launch the Run box
• Type msinfo32 and press Enter to launch the System Information window
• Look for your system’s model number
• Go to the official HP Support website and find the Software and Drivers

• Enter the serial number of your device
• Type the model of your system on the box and tap the Submit button
• Choose the OS you use on your system
• Click the option Software-Solutions
• Select the HP Hotkey Support driver and click on the Download option
• Install the driver and check for the issue is solved

Solution 3. Update Driver via HP Support Assistant

Even if after you installed the required HP Hotkey Support Driver you see the same error, try looking if there are any available updates for it.

• Launch the HP Support Assistant by double-tapping its icon
• Press on the Updates to check for any available updates

• If no drivers are available, then it means that your drivers are up-to-date

Solution 4. Disable Hotkey Support On Startup

If none of the previous methods helped you solve the error, you can just disable the Hotkey Support on startup.

• Press the Windows key + R to launch the Run box
• Type services.msc and press Enter to launch Windows Services
• Navigate to the HP Hotkey UWP Service and right-click on it

• Press on the Properties
• Choose the option Disabled from the Startup type dropdown menu
• Tap the OK button to save the changes