Fix Windows Update Error ‘0x80070005’ Access Denied

0x80070005

Windows updates are essential for maintaining the security and functionality of your computer. However, sometimes you may encounter update errors that can be frustrating, such as the “0x80070005 Access Denied” error.

This error code can leave you puzzled about what went wrong and how to resolve it.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the meaning of the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error, its significance, what causes it, and effective solutions to help you fix this issue and keep your Windows system up to date.

0x80070005

Contents

Understanding the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update Error

Before diving into the details, let’s break down the error code itself:

  • “0x80070005” is a hexadecimal error code used by Windows to indicate a specific type of access denied error.

In simple terms, the “0x80070005 Access Denied” error occurs when Windows encounters a situation where it is denied access to a particular resource or file necessary for the update process. This error can occur during Windows Update, Windows Store app downloads, or other system-related tasks.

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Common Symptoms of the Error

When you encounter the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error on your computer, you may experience the following symptoms:

  1. Error Message: The primary symptom is the appearance of an error message that includes the “0x80070005” error code, indicating the access denied issue.
  2. Failed Update Installation: Windows Update or other update processes may fail to complete, leaving you with outdated or missing system components.
  3. Permission Related Problems: You may encounter permission-related issues when trying to perform specific tasks, such as installing software or accessing certain files.

Now that we understand the symptoms, let’s explore the potential causes of the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error.

Possible Causes of the Error

To effectively troubleshoot and resolve this error, it’s crucial to identify its underlying causes. Here are some common reasons behind the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error:

  1. Insufficient Permissions: In many cases, this error occurs due to insufficient permissions to access the update files or registry keys.
  2. Corrupted User Profiles: User profile corruption can lead to access denied errors when attempting updates or installations.
  3. Third-Party Software Interference: Certain third-party security software, such as antivirus programs or firewalls, may block Windows Update processes.
  4. Registry Errors: Issues within the Windows Registry, such as incorrect or missing entries related to updates, can trigger this error.
  5. File and Folder Permissions: Incorrect or misconfigured file and folder permissions can prevent Windows from accessing necessary update files.

Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s explore the solutions to fix the “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error:

How Can I Fix Error Code 0x80070005?

Method-1: Use Windows Update Troubleshooter

One of the privileges of windows users is that Microsoft offers a specific utility to troubleshoot windows update problems. Users can apply this method by themselves because this tool is extremely simple to use.

Not to forget that this error highly occurs while updating your system as compared to other tasks. Depending upon the version of your operating system, download the respective tool. Once downloaded, double click on the tool to proceed further.

For a detailed explanation refer here: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/4027322/windows-update-troubleshooter

Method-2: Perform a Clean Boot in Windows

Step-1: Launch the System Configuration utility in your system. To do so, press Windows key + R on your keyboard and open Run Dialog box. Now type “msconfig” in the Run utility and click OK.

Step-2: As System Configuration window opens, navigate to Services tab in the menu.

Step-3: In the Services menu, there lies a checkbox next to Hide all Microsoft Services. Check that option to conceal most of the services that are crucial to the operating system.

Step-4: Further click on the Disable All button to disable the rest of the services. This will make sure that you are not interrupted by any other service while updating your windows.

Step-5: Since you have disabled the services, move to Startup processes now. Click on the Startup tab in your System Configuration utility. Click on the Open Task Manager link to navigate to the Task Manager Startup tab.

Step-6: Then disable all the startup processes. You need to remember that every process should contain the status as disabled. In order to do so, click on each startup process and press on the Disable button.

Step-7: Exit all the windows and restart your system to apply changes. Finally, your computer is prepared for clean boot.

Step-8: Now try updating your windows and see if it functions well (Keep in mind that clean boot is widely known for fixing a variety of issues).

Clean boot mainly focuses on configuring your windows so that your system proceeds with those minimum drivers that are essential for that moment and not allowing any other process to run.

This comes in handy to the users when there is any disturbance from one of the applications or if the service is trying to interrupt your update.

Method-3: Restore Windows Functionality After Performing a Clean Boot.

The most appropriate and highly used solution to fix your error is performing a clean boot in windows and then using the Update Troubleshooter.

Step-1: As mentioned above, launch the System Configuration again by holding windows key + R on your keyboard and type msconfig in the Run dialog box. Complete the process by pressing enter.

Step-2: In the General tab, select the “Normal Startup” option if it’s not already selected.

Step-3: Navigate to the Services tab and check the Hide all Microsoft Services option.

Step-4: Move to the Startup tab and click on the Task Manager link to open it.

Step-5: Then Enable the required services by selecting them and clicking on Enable.

Step-6: Finally restart your computer to apply the changes.

After completion of windows updates download, regardless of whether the issue has been solved or not it is crucial for you to enable all the services and startup processes that have been previously disabled.

As a result of which the windows will now run normally. After implementing the above steps you would have come out of the safe boot properly along with the updates.

Method-4: Clear cache to fix Error Code 0x80070005 in Microsoft Store

Most of the Technical support employees have admitted that most of the windows system errors can be easily resolved by simply clearing the Microsoft store’s cache.

Also, users do not require any system manufacturer or technical support to implement this method as it is extremely straight forward for users to perform it by themselves.

Step-1: Start the Run utility in your system by pressing windows key + R on your keyboard.

Step-2: Now type “WSReset.exe” in the Run dialog box and press OK.

Step-3: Further, the WSReset tool will reset the Microsoft store. No need to worry, as this process will neither alter your account settings nor delete any of the applications installed in your system.

Step-4: Users need to wait until the Command prompt opens by itself without any notifications/messages displayed and close automatically indicating that the process is completed successfully.

If it seems like the error 0x80070005 has occurred due to Microsoft Store then you need to know that it might be precisely due to cache piled in Microsoft Store. After clearing your Microsoft Store’s cache, Reboot your system and check if the issue still persists.

Method-5: Change the Proxy Settings to Fix Error Code 0x8007005 in Microsoft Store.

A slight modification in your settings can do wonders when it comes to solving an error.

Step-1: Launch the Internet Explorer web browser

Step-2: Click on the Tools option which is the Gearbox icon found at the top right corner of your browser or simply press Alt + x.

Step-3: Now Select Internet Options from the drop-down menu listed in front of you.

Step-4: From the horizontal menu, choose the Connections tab and click on the LAN Settings button found at the bottom of the window.

Step-5: Under the Proxy server, you can see a checkbox labeled as Use a proxy server for your LAN ( ). Uncheck it if it is already enabled.

Step-6: Click the OK button and save your Settings.

At times the error 0x80070005 is caused because of none other than faulty proxy connections. To resolve this issue you can simply disable the proxy connections.

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Conclusion

The “0x80070005 Access Denied” Windows Update error can be a roadblock to keeping your system secure and up to date, but with a systematic approach to troubleshooting and the appropriate solutions, you can often resolve it and ensure that your Windows updates are installed successfully.

By following these solutions and staying proactive in maintaining your system’s health and update readiness, you can efficiently troubleshoot and fix the “0x80070005 Access Denied” error, ensuring a smoothly functioning Windows operating system.

FAQs on the “0x80070005” Error

1. What does the “0x80070005” error code mean?

The “0x80070005” error code is a common Windows error indicating access denied.

It usually occurs when the operating system or an application does not have the required permissions to perform an action or access certain files or directories.

2. When does the “0x80070005” error typically occur?

  • This error commonly occurs during:
    • Windows Update processes.
    • Software installations or updates.
    • File or folder access.
    • System configuration changes.

3. What causes the “0x80070005” error?

  • Causes of this error can include:
    • Insufficient user permissions or administrative rights.
    • Corrupted Windows Update files or system files.
    • Antivirus or firewall interference blocking access.
    • User Account Control (UAC) settings preventing changes.
    • File or folder ownership issues.

4. How do I fix the “0x80070005” error during Windows Update?

  • To resolve this error during a Windows Update:
    • Run Windows Update Troubleshooter: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters, and select Windows Update.
    • Check and adjust permissions: Ensure you have administrative rights. Right-click the Windows Update folder (C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution), select Properties > Security, and make sure the appropriate permissions are granted.
    • Clear Windows Update cache: Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run net stop wuauserv followed by net stop cryptSvc, net stop bits, and net stop msiserver. Delete the contents of the C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution\ and C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 folders. Restart the services with net start wuauserv, net start cryptSvc, net start bits, and net start msiserver.
    • Perform a clean boot: Disable all non-Microsoft services and startup items to determine if background processes are causing the issue.

5. How do I resolve the “0x80070005” error when installing or updating software?

  • To fix installation or update issues:
    • Run the installer as an administrator: Right-click on the installer file and select Run as administrator.
    • Check for software conflicts: Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall programs that might be blocking the installation.
    • Ensure you have the latest version of the software or update the installer.
    • Verify file or folder permissions: Ensure you have full control over the installation directory or update location.

6. How do I address the “0x80070005” error related to file or folder access?

  • To resolve access issues:
    • Check file or folder permissions: Right-click the file or folder, go to Properties > Security, and ensure you have the necessary permissions.
    • Take ownership of the file or folder: Right-click, go to Properties > Security > Advanced, and change the owner to your user account.
    • Disable User Account Control (UAC): Temporarily lower UAC settings via Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings, but be cautious as this reduces system security.

7. What if the “0x80070005” error occurs with a third-party application?

  • For third-party applications:
    • Check application-specific permissions: Ensure the application has the necessary rights to access files and directories.
    • Update or reinstall the application: Ensure you’re using the latest version or perform a clean reinstall to fix corrupted files.
    • Consult the application’s support resources: Refer to the application’s official support or forums for specific troubleshooting steps.

8. How do I fix the “0x80070005” error if it’s related to User Account Control (UAC)?

  • To adjust UAC settings:
    • Open Control Panel, go to User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
    • Move the slider to Never notify (for troubleshooting purposes) and click OK.
    • Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved. Remember to restore UAC settings to their default level for security reasons.

9. Can antivirus or firewall software cause the “0x80070005” error?

  • Yes, security software can sometimes block access or interfere with updates and installations. To address this:
    • Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and attempt the operation again.
    • Add exceptions for the Windows Update process or the installer in your security software settings.
    • Update your antivirus software to ensure it’s not erroneously blocking legitimate processes.

10. How can I perform a System File Check (SFC) to fix the “0x80070005” error?

  • To run SFC:
    • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
    • Allow the scan to complete and follow any instructions to repair corrupted system files.

11. What is the role of the Windows Update Service in resolving the “0x80070005” error?

  • The Windows Update Service is responsible for managing updates. If this service is not functioning correctly, it may cause the “0x80070005” error:
    • Ensure the Windows Update Service is running: Open Services, locate Windows Update, and start or restart the service if needed.
    • Check for service dependencies: Ensure services such as Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services are also running.

12. How do I restore Windows to fix persistent “0x80070005” errors?

  • As a last resort, you can restore Windows:
    • Open Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
    • Choose Reset this PC or use System Restore to revert to a previous system state where the error did not occur.

13. Can a corrupted user profile cause the “0x80070005” error?

  • Yes, a corrupted user profile can cause various errors, including “0x80070005”:
    • Create a new user profile and check if the issue persists. If the new profile works, you may need to transfer your data and settings to the new profile.

14. How do I check for system and software conflicts causing the error?

  • To check for conflicts:
    • Perform a clean boot: Disable all non-Microsoft services and startup items to identify if background software is causing the issue.
    • Use Event Viewer to check for error logs related to the “0x80070005” error and identify any specific conflicts.

15. What should I do if the error persists despite trying all solutions?

  • If the error continues:
    • Consult Microsoft Support or refer to their official forums for further assistance.
    • Consider professional help if you suspect deeper system or hardware issues.

By addressing these frequently asked questions, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the “0x80070005” error on your Windows system.