Fix Windows Installation Error: Can't Create Files Issue

If you’ve ever attempted to upgrade your Windows 10 or Windows 11 system only to be confronted with the frustrating error message, “Can’t create files. Please check if you have permission to write to the installation folder,” you’re not alone. This issue, which many Windows users encounter, typically boils down to permission conflicts, restrictive security settings, or even corrupted files lingering in the Windows Update cache. Today, we’re diving into the heart of the matter and exploring multiple ways to resolve this pesky problem.

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What’s Really Going On?​

Even if you're logged in as an administrator, Windows enforces strict permissions on certain system folders to protect you from malicious software. This means that sometimes, even the best of intentions can be foiled by inherited security policies, robust Windows Defender protections, or sometimes even third-party antivirus software. The error essentially means that the installer does not have the necessary rights to write new files in the protected areas of your hard drive, which in turn leads to installation failure.

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Step-by-Step Fixes for the "Can't create files" Error​

Below, we highlight several techniques to circumvent this error. Whether you choose to reset permissions, clear out leftover files, or create a fresh administrator account, these tried-and-tested methods can help you get back on track.

1. Create a Local Administrator Account​

One of the simplest ways to fix the problem is to create a fresh local administrator account. A new account naturally comes without previously inherited permission problems, giving the Windows installer a clean slate to work with.

• How to do this:
• Navigate to Settings > Accounts > Other Users.
• Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to create your new administrator account.

This method avoids deep-rooted permission issues and ensures that the new account has all the necessary rights to install updates.

2. Reset User Permissions Manually​

If creating a new account isn’t your preferred approach, you can manually reset user permissions from an elevated terminal. Running a couple of command-line instructions will help reclaim the file write permissions required for the installer.

• Commands to run:
• Open Windows Terminal as an administrator.
• Execute the following command to reset permissions on your entire C: drive:
  

       icacls C:\ /grant Everyone:F /T /C /Q

• Don’t stop there—reset the ownership of essential folders by running:
  

       takeown /f C:\Windows\ /r /d y
  
       icacls C:\Windows\ /grant administrators:F /t

These commands adjust the permission levels and help eliminate any mismatches that prevent the installer from doing its job.

3. Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter​

Windows comes equipped with a built-in troubleshooter that’s designed to tackle update and installation issues head-on. This tool can often automatically detect and fix the underlying problems contributing to the error.

• To run the troubleshooter:
• Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooter.
• Find Windows Update and click Run.
• Once completed, try initiating the update again.

4. Clear Out Old and Corrupted Update Files​

Sometimes, leftover files from previous updates or a corrupted Windows Update cache can be at fault. Clearing these files may resolve the error.

• Steps to clear update files:
• Delete files in the Windows Installation Assistant folder, typically located at:

    C:\Users\<YourUser>\AppData\Local\Temp

• Clean up temporary files and residual update files using the Clean Up Recommendations in your system’s settings.
• Additionally, consider deleting all files in the SoftwareDistribution folder, where Windows stores update downloads.

This cleanup ensures that there are no old files interfering with new installations.

5. Upgrade Using a Windows ISO via USB​

If the Windows Installation Assistant continues to misbehave, upgrading via a Windows ISO might be the most reliable option. This is a more direct approach that bypasses the typical installation paths.

• What you need to do:
• Download the latest Windows ISO directly from Microsoft's official website.
• Use tools like Rufus or the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive.
• Run setup.exe from the USB drive and select the Upgrade option.

Remember: Always back up your data before initiating any major system upgrades.

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Understanding the Role of Antivirus and Security Software​

It's important to note that security software, especially antivirus programs, can inadvertently block Windows installers from modifying system folders. If disabling your antivirus temporarily allows the installation to proceed, then you know it was interfering. Just be sure to re-enable your antivirus once the installation is complete to keep your system protected.

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Final Thoughts​

This error underscores how nuanced Windows permissions can be. Even trusted administrator accounts might face restrictions thanks to an intricate network of security policies. Whether you decide to reset permissions manually, create a new administrator account, or use a Windows ISO to upgrade, these methods provide a multi-pronged strategy to resolve the issue.
At its core, this scenario reminds us that even in a system as robust as Windows, simplicity often wins. Trusting the built-in troubleshooting tools and familiar command-line utilities can often save you both time and frustration. Have you encountered this error before? Which of these fixes worked best for you? Share your experiences and tips on our forum and help fellow Windows users navigate these tricky upgrade hurdles.
Stay tuned for more expert insights and detailed guides right here on WindowsForum.com – your go-to resource for all things Windows.

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Source: The Windows Club Can’t create files, Cannot upgrade Windows [Fix]