Error: Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permission to access the item Show
ResolutionTo resolve this issue, follow the steps in the methods below starting with method 1, if that method does not resolve the issue continue to the next method. Method 1: Check the permission of the file or folderNote Make sure you are an Administrator or you are part of the Domain Admins group if you are in a domain. Permissions are rules associated with files that determine if you can access the file and what you can do with it. To check the permission of the file or folder, follow these steps:
For more information on permissions, see What are permissions? Method 2: Check the file locationYou might get this error if the shortcut or installation is attempting to access a location that is not currently available such as a networked or a removable drive. Check the path of the file that Windows cannot access and make sure that the location is accessible. (The screen shot for this step is listed below). Method 3: Make sure that the file has not been moved or deletedYou can also receive this error if the file has been moved or deleted. Browse to the location of the file and make sure the file is in that location. Method 4: Recreate the shortcut to check for corruptionYou can also receive this error if the shortcut or other file type has become corrupt. You can check for corruption in shortcuts by recreating the shortcut. To do this, see Create or delete a shortcut. If an application or other type of file is corrupt it may be necessary to repair the application to resolve the issue. Method 5: Unblock the fileIn some cases the file may be blocked by Windows. Check the properties of the file, there may be a note saying This file came from another computer and might be blocked to help protect this computer To check for and unblock the file, follow these steps:
Method 6: Check to see if your antivirus software is blocking the fileYou can check to see if your antivirus software is blocking a file by temporarily disabling it, and then trying to open the file. If you have to temporarily disable your antivirus software, you should re-enable it as soon as you are done. If you’re connected to the Internet while your antivirus software is disabled, your PC is vulnerable to attacks. Important: Disabling your antivirus software or changing the settings may make your PC vulnerable to viral, fraudulent, or malicious attacks. Microsoft does not recommend that you disable your antivirus software or change the settings. If you have to temporarily disable your antivirus software, you should re-enable it as soon as you are done. Use this workaround at your own risk. To temporarily disable your antivirus software, see Disable antivirus software CauseThis issue can occur if any of the following scenarios exist on your PC.
More InformationFor more information about errors accessing files or folders in Windows, see "Access Denied" or other errors when accessing or working with files and folders in Windows Need more help?Want more options?Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more. Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge. |