Overview
The 0x80070005 error means "Access Denied". It usually appears during Windows Update, when copying files, or when installing apps. The error tells you that your user account doesn't have permission to access a needed file or folder — even though you might be logged in as Administrator.
There are several common causes: corrupted Windows Update components, restrictive folder permissions, antivirus blocking system access, or a corrupted user profile. The good news is that 0x80070005 is rarely caused by hardware failure, so it's almost always fixable from software side.
Below are 5 methods, ordered from easiest to most thorough.
Before you start
- ✓Administrator access on the PC
- ✓Internet connection (for downloading tools)
- ✓10-15 minutes of uninterrupted time
5-step guide
Read time: ~5-15 min
Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
Microsoft includes a built-in troubleshooter that automatically detects and fixes many Windows Update issues, including 0x80070005.
Steps:
- Press
Windows + Ito open Settings. - Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters.
- Find Windows Update and click Run.
- Follow the on-screen instructions and let the troubleshooter finish.
- Restart your PC and try the failed action again.
This fixes 0x80070005 in roughly 30% of cases — quick first attempt.
Take Ownership of the Affected Folder
If the error appears when accessing a specific file or folder, you may not have permissions to it. Take ownership manually:
Steps:
- Right-click the file or folder showing the error.
- Select Properties → Security → Advanced.
- Next to "Owner", click Change.
- Type your username, click Check Names, then OK.
- Tick Replace owner on subcontainers and objects.
- Click OK and apply.
After taking ownership, retry the operation.
Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupted system files can cause 0x80070005. Run these two commands to scan and repair:
Steps:
- Press
Windows + Xand select Terminal (Admin) or PowerShell (Admin). - Run the System File Checker:
bashsfc /scannowReset Windows Update Components
Stuck or corrupted update components are a common cause. Reset them with this command sequence:
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Run these commands one by one:
bashnet 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 msiserverUse a System Repair Tool (Automatic)
If manual steps don't resolve the issue, automated repair tools can detect and fix the underlying cause without you having to dig through registry or system files. Restoro is one tool we recommend for non-technical users — it's been around since 2014 and integrates real Microsoft repair databases.
It scans your system, identifies what's broken, and lets you choose what to fix.
Still seeing 0x80070005?
If the guide is not enough, describe the issue first. We will explain whether remote help is appropriate before any access is granted.
No automatic remote access.
- DIY steps first
- Permission before access
- Hardware limits explained
Common questions
Is 0x80070005 a virus?
Will fixing 0x80070005 cause data loss?
Why does 0x80070005 keep coming back?
Can I prevent 0x80070005 from happening again?
What if none of these methods work?
Written by PCDoc Team
Tested on a real Windows machine on 2026-05-15. Found a mistake? Tell us.