0x80070005
Moderate
Microsoft · Windows
Access denied. Windows Update does not have the required permissions to access files, registry keys, or services needed for the update process.
Quick Answer
Error code 0x80070005 on your Microsoft Windows means: Access denied. Windows Update does not have the required permissions to access files, registry keys, or services needed for the update process.. This is usually fixable — see the step-by-step guide below.
Affected Models
Applies to all models
Likely Causes
How to Fix It
1
Run Windows Update from an Administrator account — ensure you are logged in as a local administrator, not a standard user.
2
Reset Windows Update service permissions: Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run: sc sdset wuauserv D:(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;SY)(A;;CCDCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRSDRCWDWO;;;BA)(A;;CCLCSWLOCRRC;;;AU)(A;;CCLCSWRPWPDTLOCRRC;;;PU).
3
Take ownership of the SoftwareDistribution folder: Open Command Prompt as Administrator, run: takeown /f C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution /r /d y, then icacls C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution /grant administrators:F /t.
4
Temporarily disable third-party antivirus and firewall software, then retry Windows Update.
5
Check Group Policy for update restrictions: Open gpedit.msc, navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Update, and ensure no policies are preventing updates.
6
Verify the Windows Update service is configured correctly: Open services.msc, find 'Windows Update', right-click > Properties, ensure Startup Type is set to 'Manual' (or Automatic) and the service is using the 'Local System' account in the Log On tab.
7
Reset all Windows Update components: Create a batch file that stops all WU services, resets security descriptors, clears caches, re-registers DLLs, and restarts services.
Pro Tip
This fix requires some technical knowledge. If you're unsure about any step, consider contacting support or a qualified technician.
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