The following feature couldn't be installed .net framework 3.5

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I entered an almost infinite loop of installation fun on Windows Server 2012 the today. I wanted to share my adventure with others in an effort to save time and prevent you from drop-kicking your laptop like I almost did.

How it all started

1. Started install of SQL Server 2014 on fresh Windows Server 2012 build
2. Install reported I needed .NET 3.5 Service Pack 1 to continue
3. Launched Server Manager
4. Clicked Add Roles and Features
5. Clicked through to the Features list and selected .NET Framework 3.5 and then clicked install

At this point I entered the almost infinite loop. The install failed several times. I tried going to the Microsoft website to get the install. When I launched the install I was delivered a message that you are not cool and that this won't work, go back to add features in Server Mangaer.

First Lifeline

First lifeline was found in this support article from Microsoft: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2734782/en-us. This article has a section on troubleshooting error code 0x800F0907. I followed the steps in this article and was able to add the .NET 3.5 Feature using server manager.

The Fix

Her is how I fixed the problem.

1. Open Group Policy Editor
2. Browse to Computer...Administrative Templates...System
3. Double click on the Speciy settings for optional component installation and component repair option.
4. Click Enable and check the box next to Contact Windows update directly to download repair content instead of WSUS
5. Click OK
6. Launch an elevated command prompt and type in gpupdate /force to update the Group Policy
7. Return to the Server Manager and try to add the .NET 3.5 Service Pack 1 Feature.
8. Crack open celebratory Mt. Dew and bask in the warm glow of your dominance.