How do I solve MSSQL 2008 install error, "The MOF compiler could not connect with the WMI server"?

I have faced the same problem and fixed it as below:

I downloadeded the portable (executable on any window based computer without installation) "Program Install and Uninstall troubleshooter" (a replacement of Windows Installer Cleanup Utility) from http://support.microsoft.com/kb/2438651 and executed the Fixit.exe. Have repeated the option named as "Fix problems with programs that can't be installed or uninstalled" to uninstalled the SQL Server 2008 registry entry(ies). After that, I installed the SQL Server 2008 which completed successfully.

I had the same problem and it was caused by the Firewall service. I had a warning message stating the firewall was enabled. A review of several internet sites indicated it was an issue so I continued. The MOF compiler error message did not indicate it had anything to do with the firewall. I stopped the firewall and reinstalled successfully.