You must have the base installed before applying subsequent security patches (like KB5016314). Hanging during prep
: Confirms that a supported version of Visual Studio 2012 is already installed. System Check visual studio 2012 update 5 preparationexe top
“Top priority,” she whispered, tasting the absurdity of the words. You must have the base installed before applying
Ensures Update 5 is already installed (a prerequisite for many subsequent hotfixes). ” she whispered
Before running the update package, ensure your environment meets the necessary prerequisites: Support reminder for older versions of Visual Studio
Here is the "Top" content regarding the preparation executable and the update process.