How to fix “0x80070005” (Access Denied). Step-by-Step Guide

How to Fix Windows Update Error 0x80070005 (Access Denied)

Error 0x80070005, also known as the "Access Denied" error, occurs in Windows when updates or actions fail due to insufficient permissions or file corruption. This guide covers solutions like using the Windows Update Troubleshooter, adjusting file permissions, running SFC and DISM commands, utilizing SubInACL for advanced permission resets, and clearing the Windows Update cache. You will also find additional tips like temporarily disabling antivirus software and activating the built-in administrator account.

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Key Takeaways

Error 0x80070005 Definition: Known as the “Access Denied” error, this occurs when Windows is unable to complete an update or action due to insufficient permissions or file corruption.
Primary Causes: This error typically occurs due to denied access to files or services required by Windows Update or a lack of proper permissions for a specific user.
Solutions: The guide provides step-by-step troubleshooting, from running built-in tools like the Windows Update Troubleshooter to advanced fixes via command line tools like DISM, SFC, and using third-party utilities like SubInACL. Tools like MiniTool Partition Wizard can also help repair disk issues that may contribute to the 0x80070005 error.
Required Skills: Basic understanding of Windows settings, administrative privileges, and following a script for advanced troubleshooting steps.
Time Estimate: Fixes could take 10-60 minutes depending on the solution required to resolve your instance of the 0x80070005 error.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Windows Update Error 0x80070005 (Access Denied)

This comprehensive step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of troubleshooting and resolving the Windows Update Error 0x80070005, also known as the “Access Denied” error.

Step 1: Run the Windows Updates Troubleshooter

One of the simplest steps to take when fixing error 0x80070005 is running the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter, which automatically detects underlying issues related to Windows Updates.

Action:
- Press Win + X, then click on Settings.
- Navigate to Update & Security.
- Click on Troubleshoot.
- Scroll down and select Windows Update.
- Click Run the troubleshooter.

This will clear temporary files, repair essential Windows components, and possibly resolve any update issues.

Step 2: Allow Full User Control Over Folder Permissions

Oftentimes, denied access to folders or files prevents updates from installing correctly. This step involves changing folder permissions to ensure that your user account has sufficient rights.

Action:
- Open File Explorer and navigate to the folder causing issues, such as C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData.
- Right-click on the folder and select Properties.
- Go to the Security tab and click on Advanced.
- Change Ownership: Click Change next to the owner field and input your user account.
- Check Replace owner on subcontainers and objects.

After giving full control, try running Windows Update again.

Step 3: Use the SFC and DISM Commands

This step requires using two of Windows’ built-in repair tools: SFC (System File Checker) and DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management). These tools will automatically repair any corrupt or broken system files that could cause the 0x80070005 error. If the issue persists, consider using EaseUS DriverHandy to ensure that all system drivers are up-to-date, as outdated drivers can also lead to permission errors.

Action:
- Press Win + R, type cmd, and then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter to run Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
- For DISM, type:
```
DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
```
  Press Enter. Wait until the process is complete.
- For SFC, type:
```
sfc /scannow
```
  Press Enter. Let this scan complete and then reboot the system.

(SFC is often the go-to for many common system issues, but remember to run DISM first, as it fixes the store where SFC pulls its working files.)

Step 4: Run SubInACL to Adjust Permissions (Advanced)

Occasionally, file and registry permission issues are more stubborn. Microsoft’s SubInACL tool allows you to reset permissions for key files and registry keys required by Windows Update.

Action:

Download SubInACL from the Microsoft Download Center.

Create a custom .CMD script to adjust permissions:

Open Notepad.

Copy and paste the following text:

Set OSBIT=32
IF exist "%ProgramFiles(x86)%" set OSBIT=64
set RUNNINGDIR=%ProgramFiles%
IF %OSBIT% == 64 set RUNNINGDIR=%ProgramFiles(x86)%
subinacl /subkeyreg "HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Component Based Servicing" /grant="nt service\trustedinstaller"=f

Save as permissions_reset.cmd.
Right-click and choose Run as administrator.

If successful, 0x80070005 might be gone after restarting the computer.

Step 5: Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software (Optional)

Antivirus software is notorious for blocking access to files and services during updates. Temporarily pausing your antivirus software while completing the update process could eliminate the error.

Action:
- Open your antivirus software and find the option to temporarily disable or pause protection.
- Once the update completes successfully, re-enable your antivirus immediately.

Make sure your antivirus is re-enabled afterward. Leaving it turned off makes your system vulnerable.

Step 6: Activate Built-in Administrator Account (Advanced)

In some cases, error 0x80070005 occurs due to inadequate permissions for standard users. By logging into the built-in administrator account, you can ensure full permissions for system processes, including Windows Update.

Action:
- Press Windows + S, type CMD, then right-click it and select Run as administrator.
- Type:
```
net user administrator /active:yes
```
  Press Enter and log out. Log in using the Administrator account and check if the update completes.

Step 7: Clear Windows Update Database Cache

Sometimes, the Windows Update database cache becomes corrupt, leading to the 0x80070005 error. Clearing the cache removes old and corrupt files that might be causing the issue.

Action:
- Press Win + R, type services.msc, press Enter.
- Stop Services: Find Windows Update, BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service), and SysMain. Right-click and select Stop.
- Navigate to: C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\Download.
- Delete all files in the Download folder (do not delete the folder itself).
- Return to Services, right-click on the same services, and click Start.

Step 8: Reinstall Microsoft Store (Optional)

If you’re having trouble accessing the Microsoft Store due to the error, reinstalling the app might help.

Action:

Open PowerShell as an administrator (Win + X → Windows PowerShell (Admin)).

Type the command:

Get-AppXPackage -allusers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register "$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml"}

Press Enter and restart your PC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is error 0x80070005?

Error 0x80070005, “Access Denied”, occurs when Windows lacks the necessary permissions to complete a system process, such as an update.

2. Can I fix this error without restarting my computer?

While some permission fixes can work without restarting, most successful resolutions will require at least one restart, especially when resetting system components.

3. Is it dangerous to disable my antivirus temporarily?

Temporarily disabling antivirus is safe if done briefly. Ensure the antivirus is re-enabled promptly after resolving the update issue.

4. What should I do if none of the steps solve the issue?

If none of the solutions work, you can look into restoring your system from a previous backup using System Restore or consider a Windows Reset or Clean Install, though the latter would wipe your data, so be careful.

5. Can third-party software cause the 0x80070005 error?

Yes, firewall or antivirus applications can sometimes block necessary files, leading to this error.

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