Fixing ERROR_DIR_NOT_ROOT 144 (0x90): Step-by-Step Guide

The ERROR_DIR_NOT_ROOT, accompanied by error code 144 (0x90) and the message “The directory is not a subdirectory of the root directory,”typically arises when the folder you are attempting to access is not identified as a subdirectory of the root. This folder should ideally be positioned under the root directory.

This error may occur during file operations when the specified path does not conform to the expected directory structure. To start, try rebooting your computer, as a restart can often resolve file access problems.

How to Resolve the ERROR_DIR_NOT_ROOT 144 (0x90)

1. Verify the Path

1. Press the Windows key, type cmd in the search field, and then select Run as administrator to open Command Prompt with elevated permissions.
2. Execute the following command to verify whether the folder exists at the specified path by substituting Pathtoyourdirectory with the actual directory path, and then press Enter: dir C:\Pathtoyourdirectory
3. This command will display a list of the subdirectories and files contained within that directory.

It’s important to check for spelling mistakes, missing slashes, or incorrect case sensitivity to ensure that you are using a complete and accurate path.

2. Adjust the Permissions

To successfully access a file or folder, sufficient permissions for reading, writing, and executing must be granted. Here’s how to check the permissions:

1. Right-click the folder and select Properties.
2. Navigate to the Security tab, select your username under Group or User Names, and review the Permissions section. You should see ticks next to Full control, Modify, Read, Write, and Read & Execute.
3. If any permissions are missing, click Edit, check the appropriate boxes, then click Apply, and finally press OK to save your changes.

3. Verify the Root Folder

First, identify the root directory associated with the specific task or application. You can find this in the Program Files or the app’s settings.

Additionally, closely inspect the full paths for both the primary and target folders to confirm that the latter is indeed contained within the former. For instance, if the root directory is E:\RootDirectory, the subdirectory should follow this structure: C:\RootDirectory\Subdirectory. If the path does not match, the error may occur.

4. Assess the File Health

Ensure that the file or folder can support the operation you intend to execute. Running a disk check can determine if the file system is corrupt. Before proceeding, remember to back up any critical files:

1. Press the Windows key, type cmd in the search field, then select Run as administrator to open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
2. Enter the following command to locate bad sectors and repair disk errors, then press Enter : chkdsk C: /f
3. If you run this command on your system drive (typically the C drive), you may receive a notification that the drive is currently in use, and the scan will occur after the next reboot. Type Y and hit Enter.
4. After restarting, the CHKDSK process will initiate automatically before Windows starts.

In summary, to resolve the ERROR_DIR_NOT_ROOT 144 (0x90), confirm that the application related to the issue is updated and that the file path you are using is accurate. Additionally, restart your computer prior to attempting the outlined steps, and check if the issue continues to occur.

While you’re here, consider reviewing all potential causes of Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) occurrences so you can take preventive measures and avoid these problems in the future.

If you have further inquiries or concerns regarding the ERROR_DIR_NOT_ROOT BSoD error, please feel free to share them in the comments below. We are here to assist!

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