The main reasons for the error "Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file" are insufficient permissions, too long file path, blocked program running or system settings. Solutions include: 1. Check permission settings, right-click the file or folder → "Properties" → "Security" tab, add an account and give "Full Control" permission, and obtain ownership if necessary; 2. Confirm that the file path is not too long, copy to a shorter path or enable long path support (through Group Policy or Registration); 3. Try closing the antivirus software or firewall temporarily, add the file to a whitelist or click "Unlock"; 4. Run the program as an administrator, right-click to select "Run as administrator", or set a shortcut to run with administrator privileges by default.

The error "Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file" appears, usually due to insufficient permissions, too long file path, blocked program running, or system setup problems. The solution is actually not complicated, the key is to prescribe the right medicine according to the specific situation.

1. Check permission settings

The most common cause of this problem is that the current user does not have permission to access the file or folder. You can try the following steps:

• Right-click on the target file or folder → "Properties" → toggle to the "Safe" tab.
• Check if the account you are currently using is in the Group or Username list.
• If not, click Edit to add your account and give "Full Control" permission.
• If you are already in the list but have low permissions, you can click "Edit" to increase permissions.

Sometimes you may need to manually obtain ownership even if you are an administrator. At this time, you can click "Advanced" on the "Security" page, and then change to your own account next to "Owner", and check "Replace the owner of the child object".

2. Confirm that the file path is not too long

Windows has a limit on file path length (the default maximum path is 260 characters), and this error will be triggered if you open a folder with deep nesting or a file with long names.

Solution:

• Try copying the file to a shorter path, such as directly in the D:\ or E:\ root directory.
• Enable long path support (for Windows 10/11):
  • Open the Group Policy Editor (gpedit.msc)
  • Go to "Computer Configuration" → "Administrative Templates" → "System" → "File System"
  • Enable "Enable Win32 Long Path"

Or modify through the registry (suitable for advanced users).

3. Try temporarily to turn off antivirus software or firewall

Some antivirus software prevents you from accessing certain programs or script files, especially downloaded executables (.exe).

You can try:

• Temporarily turn off antivirus software or firewall
• Whitelist the file
• Or right-click the file → "Properties" → Check if there is an "Unlock" button (appears on files downloaded from the network)

If the problem disappears after closing, it means that the security software accidentally blocked the normal operation.

4. Run the program as an administrator

If you encounter this prompt when running a program, it may be because the program requires higher permissions to start.

How to operate:

• Right-click on the program icon or shortcut
• Select Run as Administrator

If this is a bit troublesome every time, you can set the default operation with administrator privileges:

• Right-click the program → “Create shortcut”
• Right-click the newly created shortcut → "Properties" → "Shortcuts" tab → "Advanced"
• Check "Run as administrator"

Basically, these common causes and solutions. Different methods apply to different situations, and it is recommended to check them in order. Although it seems a bit too much, most of the time, you only need to process permissions or paths to do it.

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