How To Fix Windows Error Code 0x80070005

If you’re running into Windows Error Code 0x80070005, you’re not alone. This error is one of the more common and frustrating issues users face. It usually shows up when you try to install Windows updates, activate Windows, or access certain files or settings. The cause? Nine times out of ten, it’s a permissions problem.

Here’s how to fix it, step-by-step.

What Causes Error Code 0x80070005?

Error 0x80070005 means “Access Denied.” It usually crops up due to:

• Lack of administrator permissions
• User account control (UAC) restrictions
• File or folder permission issues
• Corrupted Windows Update components
• Malware interfering with system processes

1. Run as Administrator

If you’re trying to install something or run a system task, make sure you’re doing it as an administrator.

How to do it:

1. Right-click the app or installer.
2. Choose Run as administrator.
3. Accept the UAC prompt.

Try your task again. If the error persists, move to the next step.

2. Check Windows Update Settings

If the error occurs during a Windows update:

Reset Windows Update Components:

1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
2. Run these commands one by one:

net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

3. Restart your PC and try updating again.

3. Fix Permissions Using SubInACL Tool

This method is more technical but works if permissions are broken deep in the system.

1. Download and install SubInACL from Microsoft.
2. Create a fix script:
   • Open Notepad and paste this:

cd /d "%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Windows Resource Kits\Tools"
subinacl /subkeyreg HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE /grant=administrators=f /grant=system=f
subinacl /subkeyreg HKEY_CURRENT_USER /grant=administrators=f /grant=system=f
subinacl /subkeyreg HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT /grant=administrators=f /grant=system=f
subinacl /subdirectories %SystemDrive% /grant=administrators=f /grant=system=f

3. Save as fix_permissions.cmd.
4. Right-click > Run as administrator.

This will reset most permission issues.

4. Use Windows Troubleshooter

Windows has built-in troubleshooters that can fix many issues automatically.

How to access:

• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters
• Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter (or the relevant one for your issue)

5. Scan for Malware

Some malware can restrict permissions and block system updates.

Use Microsoft Defender or a trusted third-party tool like Malwarebytes:

1. Open Windows Security
2. Run a Full Scan
3. Remove any threats found and restart your PC

6. Create a New User Profile

If your user account is corrupted, creating a new profile can help.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users
2. Click Add someone else to this PC
3. Follow the prompts to create a new admin account
4. Log in with the new account and see if the error still occurs

Final Option: System Restore or Reset

If none of the above fixes work, you can:

• Use System Restore to go back to a point before the error started
• Or, Reset this PC under Settings > System > Recovery

Make sure to back up important data before a reset.

Conclusion

Error Code 0x80070005 might seem intimidating, but it’s usually just a permissions issue. Start with simple fixes like running apps as admin, and work your way through the steps above. With patience and the right approach, you can get your system back to normal—no tech support call required.

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