Run Windows Update troubleshooting to solve common problems automatically; 2. Make sure to log in with an administrator account to avoid insufficient permissions; 3. Restart Windows Update, Cryptographic Services, BITS, and MSIServer services to resolve service exceptions; 4. Rename the SoftwareDistribution folder after stopping the relevant services to rebuild the update cache; 5. Run the sfc /scannow and DISM commands to repair system files and Windows images; 6. Temporarily disable third-party antivirus software to prevent interfering with updates; 7. Use chkdsk to check and repair disk errors; finally, you need to confirm account permissions, disable metering connections, and ensure accurate system time. In most cases, you can resolve the 0x80070005 error by resetting the update service and clearing the cache folder.

The Windows Update error 0x80070005 — also known as "Access is denied" — is a common issue that prevents your PC from installing updates. It usually points to permission problems, corrupted system files, or misconfigured services. Fortunately, most cases can be resolved with a few targeted fixes. Here's how to fix it step by step.

1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix common update issues.

Steps:

• Press Win I to open Settings .
• Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters .
• Find Windows Update , click Run .
• Follow the on-screen instructions and apply any recommended fixes.

This tool often resolves permission or service-related glitches without further action.

2. Ensure Your Account Has Admin Rights

Error 0x80070005 can occur if you're not running the update process with sufficient permissions.

Check:

• Make sure you're signed in with an Administrator account .
• To verify:
  • Press Win I > Accounts > Your info .
  • It should say "Administrator" under your name.
• If not, switch to an admin account or elevate your current one via User Accounts in Control Panel.

? Even if you think you're an admin, temporary permission glitches can happen—try logging out and back in, or rebooting.

3. Restart Windows Update Services

Corrupted or stopped services can block updates. Restarting them often helps.

Steps:

• Press Win R , type services.msc , and press Enter .
• Locate these services:
  • Windows Update
  • Cryptographic Services
  • Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
  • Microsoft Installer (MSIServer)

Restart each:

• Right-click each service > Restart .
• If any are stopped, right-click > Start .
• Set their Startup type to Automatic .

Alternatively, use Command Prompt (Admin):

 net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc
net stop bits
net stop msserver

net start wuauserv
net start cryptsvc
net start bits
net start msserver

4. Take Ownership of SoftwareDistribution Folder

This folder stores temporary update files. If permissions are incorrect, Windows can't access it.

Steps:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator .
• Run:

 net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptsvc

• Navigate to:

   C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution

• Rename the folder:

   ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old

• Restart the services:

   net start wuauserv
  net start cryptsvc

Windows will create a new SoftwareDistribution folder with correct permissions.

5. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

Corrupted system files can trigger this error.

Run SFC:

• Open Command Prompt (Admin) .
• Type:

   sfc /scannow

• Wait for completion. If issues are found, it will attempt repairs.

Then run DISM:

 DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

This repairs the Windows image. Reboot after both complete.

6. Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Third-Party Security Software

Sometimes third-party antivirus tools interfere with Windows Update.

• Disable your antivirus (especially third-party suites like McAfee, Norton, etc.) temporarily.
• Try checking for updates again.
• Re-enable it afterward.

Note: Windows Defender usually doesn't cause this issue, but exceptions exist.

7. Check Disk for Errors

File system corruption can also lead to access denied errors.

Run:

• Open Command Prompt (Admin).
• Type:

   chkdsk /f /r

• Press Y to schedule on next reboot.
• Restart your PC and let the scan run.

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Final Tips

• Make sure your Windows account is not a standard user.
• Avoid using metered connections during updates.
• Keep your system clock and time zone accurate—incorrect time can affect authentication.

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Fixing error 0x80070005 usually comes down to permissions, services, or file corruption. Start with the troubleshooter and work through the steps—most users resolve it by resetting the Windows Update services and clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder.

Basically, it's not a serious system flaw—just a hiccup in access control.

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