Error 0x80070522: A Required Privilege Is Not Held by the Client

Error 0x80070522 typically occurs when a user attempts to copy, move, or create a file in a system folder or a protected area of the drive that requires administrative privileges. Windows interprets this as an attempt to modify important system files and blocks the action to prevent unauthorized access.

Causes of Error 0x80070522

  • Trying to modify files in a protected directory, such as the root directory of the C: drive or the Windows system folder.
  • Lack of administrator privileges for the user performing the operation.
  • Changes in the system's security policy that prevent users without necessary privileges from making modifications.

How to Fix the Error

1. Run the Program as an Administrator

If the error occurs when launching a program, try running it with administrative rights. Right-click on the program icon and select "Run as administrator".

2. Modify File and Folder Permissions

You may need to manually change the permissions of the file or folder:

  • Right-click on the folder or file causing the error.
  • Select "Properties" and navigate to the "Security" tab.
  • Click the "Edit" button and grant the necessary permissions to your user account.

3. Use the Command Prompt

You can perform certain operations using the Command Prompt with administrative privileges:

  1. Press Win + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)".
  2. Enter the required commands to change permissions or move files.

4. Enable the Administrator Account

If the above methods don't work, you can try activating the built-in Administrator account:

  1. Open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
  2. Type the command net user Administrator /active:yes and press Enter.
  3. Restart your computer and log in using the Administrator account to perform the necessary actions.

Note: Modifying system files can be risky. Only make changes when necessary to avoid disrupting your operating system's functionality.