Troubleshooting Error Code 0x80070055

Error code 0x80070055 is a common Windows error that indicates an access denied issue. Users typically encounter this error message when attempting to install software, update drivers, or perform other tasks requiring administrator privileges.

What is the Problem?

The core problem behind error code 0x80070055 lies in insufficient permissions. Your operating system is preventing a specific action due to lack of appropriate user rights. This could be because you are logged in with a standard user account that lacks administrator privileges, or there might be permission issues with the files or folders involved in the operation.

What Causes It?

Several factors can contribute to error code 0x80070055:

  • Insufficient User Permissions: The most common cause is attempting an action requiring administrator rights while logged in as a standard user.
  • Corrupted System Files: Damaged system files can interfere with permissions and lead to this error.
  • Antivirus Interference: Overly aggressive antivirus software may block necessary access, triggering the error.
  • Incorrect File Ownership: Incorrect file ownership settings can prevent proper access.

Affected Operating Systems

Error code 0x80070055 primarily affects Windows operating systems, including:

  • Windows 10
  • Windows 8 and 8.1
  • Windows 7
  • Windows Vista

Programs Often Encountering the Error

Various programs can encounter this error depending on their installation or update processes. Some common examples include:

  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Adobe Creative Cloud Applications
  • Game Clients (Steam, Epic Games Launcher)
  • Windows Updates

How to Solve Errors

There are several steps you can take to resolve error code 0x80070055:

Run as Administrator

Attempt running the program or installer that triggered the error with administrator privileges. To do this, right-click on the program's executable file and select "Run as administrator."

Check User Account Control (UAC) Settings

Ensure your UAC settings are not set too restrictively. To adjust UAC settings:

  1. Press the Windows key + I to open Settings.
  2. Navigate to System > About.
  3. Click on "Advanced system settings."
  4. Go to the "User Profiles" tab and click "Change Settings."
  5. Adjust the slider to a less restrictive level if needed.

Disable Antivirus Temporarily

Temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if it's interfering with the process. Remember to re-enable it afterward.

Check File Ownership and Permissions

Verify that the files involved in the operation have the correct ownership and permissions.

  1. Right-click on the relevant file or folder.
  2. Select "Properties."
  3. Go to the "Security" tab.
  4. Ensure your user account has appropriate read, write, and execute permissions.
  5. Click "Apply" and "OK."

Run System File Checker (SFC) Scan

The SFC utility can scan for and repair corrupted system files:

  1. Open a Command Prompt as administrator.

  2. Type the following command and press Enter:

    sfc /scannow

  3. Allow the scan to complete, and restart your computer if prompted.

Perform Disk Cleanup

Disk cleanup can help remove unnecessary files and potentially resolve permissions issues:

  1. Press Windows key + R and type "cleanmgr."
  2. Select your system drive (usually C:) and click "OK."
  3. Choose the types of files you want to delete and click "OK."

Repair Windows Installation

As a last resort, consider repairing your Windows installation using the "Repair Your Computer" option from the boot menu. You can download a Windows 10 ISO file from Microsoft .

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