What is the installed program "SQL Server 2017 Common Files" on my Windows 7 computer? Why it is not visible in Control Panel?

"SQL Server 2017 Common Files" is an installed program on Windows 7 system managed by Windows Installer.

You will not see "SQL Server 2017 Common Files" listed on "uninstall or change a program" in Control Panel, because it is flagged as a hidden system component in the registry (SystemComponent=1).

Information related to "SQL Server 2017 Common Files" installed program:

Name: SQL Server 2017 Common Files
Publisher: Microsoft Corporation
Size: 14732 KB
Version: 14.0.1000.169
System Component: Yes
Identifying Number: {6CE9A8AA-C478-4706-BD28-95993D52B5A1}
Install Location: 
Install Source: C:\ProgramData\Package Cache\{6CE9A8AA-C478-4706-BD28-95993D52B5A1}v14.0.1000.169\x86\sql_common_core_msi\
Install Date: 20171221
Local Package: C:\windows\Installer\5256e21d.msi
Package Name: sql_common_core.msi
Uninstall Command: MsiExec.exe /I{6CE9A8AA-C478-4706-BD28-95993D52B5A1}
Windows Installer: Yes

It is recommended to keep "SQL Server 2017 Common Files" as an installed program.

⇒ "SQL Server 2017 Connection Info" Installed Program on Windows 7

⇐ "SQL Server 2017 Client Tools Extensions" Installed Program on Windows 7

⇑ Hidden Installed Programs using Windows Installer on Windows 7

⇑⇑ Windows 7 Installed Programs