How To Fix Windows Error Code 0x80070005?

Windows Error Code 0x80070005 means “Access is Denied.” It usually appears when Windows Update fails, an app or program refuses to install, the Microsoft Store won’t download something, or a file/folder can’t be opened or changed.The good news: this is one of the most common Windows errors and almost always has a simple fix. You don’t need advanced tech skills — just follow the steps below in order. Most people solve it within 10–20 minutes.

What Causes Error 0x80070005?

• Missing administrator permissions
• Corrupted Windows Update files or cache
• Incorrect folder ownership (especially WinSxS or SoftwareDistribution)
• Third-party antivirus or security software blocking access
• Damaged system files

Quick Checklist Before You Start

• Make sure you are signed in with an Administrator account
• Temporarily pause any third-party antivirus (Windows Security is fine)
• Restart your PC once before trying the fixes

Method 1: Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter (Easiest First Step)

• Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
• Go to System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters (on Windows 11)
• or Update & Security → Troubleshoot → Additional troubleshooters (on Windows 10).
• Find Windows Update and click Run.
• Let it finish, apply any fixes it suggests, then restart your PC and try the update again.

This built-in tool fixes many permission and service problems automatically.

Method 2: Reset Windows Update Components (Most Effective Fix)

This clears the corrupted update cache — the #1 reason for 0x80070005 during updates.

• Search for Command Prompt, right-click it, and choose Run as administrator.

• Type these commands one by one and press Enter after each:
  net stop wuauserv
  net stop bits
  net stop cryptSvc
  net stop msiserver

• Now rename the update folders:
  ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
  ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old

• Restart the services:
  net start msiserver
  net start cryptSvc
  net start bits
  net start wuauserv

• Restart your computer and check for updates again.

Windows will automatically create fresh folders.

Method 3: Repair System Files with DISM and SFC

Damaged system files often trigger the access-denied error.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
• Run this command first (it can take 10–30 minutes):

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

• When it finishes, run:
  sfc /scannow

• Restart your PC when both commands complete.

Method 4: Reset Permissions on Critical Folders (Official Microsoft Fix)

If the error still appears during Windows Update, Microsoft recommends these exact commands.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.

• Run:
  icacls "%windir%\WinSxS" /reset /t /c /q
  icacls "%windir%\SoftwareDistribution" /reset /t /c /q

• Then set the correct owner:
  icacls "%windir%\WinSxS" /setowner "NT SERVICE\TrustedInstaller" /t /c /q

• Restart your computer and try the update again.

Method 5: Fix Microsoft Store or App Install Errors

If the error shows when installing apps from the Store:

• Press Windows key + R, type wsreset, and press Enter.
• Wait for the blank window to close.
• Restart the Microsoft Store and try again.

You can also go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps → Microsoft Store → Advanced options → Reset.

Method 6: Take Ownership of a Specific Folder (If a Program Install Fails)

• Right-click the folder that is causing the error → Properties.
• Go to the Security tab → Advanced.
• Click Change next to Owner.
• Type your username, click Check Names, then OK.
• Check the box “Replace owner on subcontainers and objects”.
• Apply the changes and try the installation again.

Still Not Fixed?

If none of the above works:

• Create a new local administrator account and try from there.
• Perform an In-place Upgrade (download the Windows 11/10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft and choose “Keep personal files and apps”).
• As a last resort, use Reset this PC while keeping your files.

That’s it!

Most users resolve Error 0x80070005 with Method 2 or Method 3. Work through the steps calmly — each one is safe and reversible.