Meta Description:
Learn how to fix Windows Update Error 0x80070005 (Access Denied) in Windows 10 and Windows 11 with step-by-step solutions that work in 2026.
Introduction
Seeing Windows Update Error 0x80070005 – Access Denied can be frustrating. This error usually appears when Windows does not have the required permissions to install updates.
You may see a message like:
“Error 0x80070005: Access is denied.”
This issue affects both Windows 10 and Windows 11, and it commonly happens because of:
- Permission issues
- Corrupted Windows Update components
- Antivirus interference
- Damaged system files
The good news? In most cases, you can fix this error without reinstalling Windows.
Let’s go step by step.
What Causes Error 0x80070005?
Error 0x80070005 means Windows was blocked from accessing required system files.
Common causes include:
- Incorrect file permissions
- Third-party antivirus blocking updates
- Corrupted update cache
- Malware infection
- Windows service misconfiguration
Now let’s fix it.
Solution 1: Restart Your PC (Quick Fix)
Sometimes update permissions temporarily glitch.
- Restart your computer
- Try running Windows Update again
If the error returns, continue below.
Solution 2: Temporarily Disable Antivirus
Third-party antivirus software can block update files.
- Disable your antivirus temporarily
- Restart your PC
- Try updating again
If the update installs successfully, consider switching antivirus software.
Solution 3: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
- Open Settings
- Go to System → Troubleshoot
- Click Other troubleshooters
- Run Windows Update
Let Windows attempt automatic repair.
Solution 4: Run SFC and DISM Scan
Corrupted system files often trigger access errors.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
sfc /scannow
Wait until it finishes.
Then run:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Restart your computer.
Solution 5: Reset Windows Update Components (Most Effective)
This method fixes most 0x80070005 errors.
Step 1: Stop Update Services
Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:
net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
Step 2: Rename Update Folders
ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old
Step 3: Restart Services
net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
Restart your PC and try updating again.
Solution 6: Fix Permissions Using SubInACL (Advanced)
⚠ Advanced users only.
Microsoft provides a tool called SubInACL to reset system permissions.
- Download SubInACL from Microsoft
- Install it
- Run permission reset script
This method resets registry and file permissions.
Solution 7: Check for Malware
Malware can block system-level access.
Run:
- Windows Security Full Scan
- Or Malwarebytes scan
Remove threats and restart your PC.
Solution 8: Perform a Clean Boot
Clean Boot prevents third-party services from interfering.
- Press Windows + R
- Type:
msconfig
- Go to Services tab
- Check Hide all Microsoft services
- Click Disable all
- Restart PC
Try Windows Update again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Error 0x80070005 mean?
It means Windows does not have permission to access required update files.
Is Error 0x80070005 dangerous?
No, but it prevents important updates from installing.
Does this affect Windows 11?
Yes. The same fixes apply to Windows 11.
Final Thoughts
Windows Update Error 0x80070005 (Access Denied) is usually caused by permission issues or antivirus interference.
Start with:
- Restarting your PC
- Disabling antivirus temporarily
- Resetting Windows Update components
In most cases, this resolves the issue quickly.