Quick Summary
Error 0x80070005 in Windows signifies an "Access Denied" error. This typically means the user account or process attempting the action lacks the necessary permissions to access a specific file, folder, registry key, or perform a particular operation.
Common Causes
- Insufficient User Permissions: The user account attempting the operation lacks the required read/write/execute permissions for the target resource. This is a common cause, especially when dealing with system files or folders.
- Conflicting Software or Antivirus: Security software, including antivirus programs or firewalls, can sometimes incorrectly flag legitimate actions as malicious and block them, resulting in access denied errors. Other applications might also lock resources, preventing access.
- Corrupted System Files: Damaged or missing system files can lead to unexpected errors, including permission-related issues. This is less common but should be considered if other troubleshooting steps fail.
- Incorrect Registry Permissions: The registry stores configuration settings for Windows and applications. Incorrect permissions on registry keys can prevent programs from functioning correctly.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Run as Administrator
Step 1: Right-click on the application or executable you're trying to run.
Step 2: Select "Run as administrator". This elevates the application's privileges and may bypass permission restrictions.
Method 2: Take Ownership of the File or Folder
Step 1: Right-click on the file or folder you are trying to access.
Step 2: Select "Properties".
Step 3: Go to the "Security" tab, and click "Advanced".
Step 4: Next to "Owner", click "Change".
Step 5: Type your username in the box and click "Check Names".
Step 6: Click "OK".
Step 7: Check the box "Replace owner on subcontainers and objects".
Step 8: Click "Apply" and then "OK".
Step 9: Back on the Security tab, click "Edit".
Step 10: Select your username from the list.
Step 11: In the "Permissions for [Your Username]" section, check the box next to "Full control" under the "Allow" column.
Step 12: Click "Apply" and then "OK".
Method 3: Disable User Account Control (UAC)
Step 1: Type "UAC" in the Windows search bar and select "Change User Account Control settings".
Step 2: Move the slider down to "Never notify". This is NOT recommended as a permanent solution, but can help diagnose if UAC is the cause.
Step 3: Click "OK" and restart your computer.
Step 4: If the issue is resolved, try lowering the UAC level incrementally instead of disabling it completely. Revert to the original setting if the issue is not UAC related.
Method 4: Check Antivirus/Firewall Exceptions
Step 1: Open your antivirus or firewall software.
Step 2: Look for settings related to exceptions or exclusions.
Step 3: Add the affected application or file path to the exception list. Refer to your antivirus/firewall's documentation for specific instructions.
Method 5: Run System File Checker (SFC)
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator. (Type "cmd" in the search bar, right-click "Command Prompt", and select "Run as administrator").
Step 2: Type "sfc /scannow" and press Enter.
Step 3: Wait for the scan to complete. This may take some time.
Step 4: Restart your computer.