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How to Solve “Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file.” Error

Windows error

You may have come across the following error message in Windows when you try to open a file or install an application: “Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permission to access the item.”

Windows error cannot access specified file

This error will block you from installing, updating or starting an application or even from opening a file. This error can happen on your computer due to various reasons, such as:

  1. Do not have sufficient permissions to the file or the file location.
  2. The location of the file is currently inaccessible or you are disconnected from your network if the file is on a network drive.
  3. The file may have been deleted or moved and you may be clicking on a corrupt shortcut.
  4. The file may be blocked by Windows.

Solution to “Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file” Error

Check File Permissions:

1. Right click on the file that is giving the error | Click Properties | Security Tab

Windows error cannot access specified file

2. Edit The required permissions

Windows error cannot access specified file

Ensure File Location is not Broken

Windows error cannot access specified file

Check if the File is Blocked by Windows

Right Click on the file that is giving the error | Properties | General Tab | If the file is blocked, click Unblock.

Windows error cannot access specified file

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