Symptoms

When SQL Server 2017 Express is manually installed, an error occurs stating, "VS Shell installation has failed with exit code 1638."

Cause

Microsoft SQL Server requires Microsoft Visual C++ 2015 Redistributable but a newer version of Microsoft C++ Redistributable is already installed.

Resolution

1. Uninstall the Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x86) and (x64)
2. Install SQL Server 2017
3. Reinstall the previously uninstalled Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributables
   Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x86)
   Microsoft Visual C++ 2017 Redistributable (x64)