BizTalk Configuration Manager Won’t Load

This is a response to this thread on the MSDN BizTalk forum.

This is going to be a short one. In summary: this must be a BTS error that has yet to be solved. Each time I tried to run the BizTalk Configuration Manager, I got an error saying another instance was running. I spent hours searching for running instances, repairing my BizTalk instance, restarting my computer. This continued when I tried to run normally, or as an administrator.

Solution?

Never found a simple one. I had to reinstall BizTalk (what a pain!), but even when I tried to uninstall, the configuration manager stopped the uninstall, saying another instance was running! So how did I uninstall? Microsoft Fix It. I had to use it to forcefully uninstall a few components of my BizTalk instance.

So, say goodbye to a productive work day, get your favorite drink, and try not to stress out while you wait through countless progress bars.

UPDATE

After some time on my fresh install of BizTalk, I started getting the same issue! But never fear, I found out how to overcome the issue this time — the solution is ridiculous and makes me want to yell at Microsoft. Here it is:

1. Open BizTalk Server Configuration
2. When the window pops up saying another instance is running, hit OK
3. Open BizTalk Server Configuration
4. When the window pops up saying another instance is running, hit OK
5. Open BizTalk Server Configuration
6. When the window pops up saying another instance is running, hit OK
7. Continue to repeat steps 1 & 2 until BizTalk Server Configuration opens up

Why does this work? You tell me. But it does.