Resolve Windows Installation Assistant Errors: Fix ‘Can’t Create Files’ During Upgrade
Key Notes
- Ensure sufficient permissions to create upgrade files
- Consider creating a new local admin account
- Clear unnecessary temporary files before upgrading
Understanding and Fixing the ‘Can’t Create Files’ Error in Windows Upgrades
Encountering the ‘Can’t create files’ error during a Windows upgrade can be frustrating. This guide provides clear steps to resolve those issues effectively.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix ‘Can’t Create Files’
Step 1: Create a Local Administrator Account for Updates
The simplest solution may be to create a new local administrator account. This fresh account will typically have the appropriate permissions and security settings needed for a successful upgrade.
Step 2: Resetting User Permissions
If creating a new account isn’t feasible, you can reset the current user’s permissions.
- Open Windows Terminal with administrator rights.
- Execute
icacls C:\ /grant Everyone:F /T /C /Qto reset permissions on the C: drive. - If required, reset ownership of specific Windows folders with:
takeown /f C:\Windows\ /r /d yicacls C:\Windows\ /grant administrators:F /t
After adjustments, attempt the upgrade again.
Step 3: Utilize the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Windows comes with a built-in troubleshooter that can often resolve issues automatically.
- Navigate to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
- Locate the Windows Update option and click Run.
- Once done, retry the update.
Step 4: Clear Outdated Update Assistant Files
Corrupt files may interfere with the installation process. You may need to remove old files.
- Delete everything from the C:\Users\
\AppData\Local\Temp folder. - Clear Temporary Files and perform Windows Update Cleanup from the Settings > Clean up recommendations menu.
- Delete all files contained in the SoftwareDistribution folder.
Step 5: Upgrade Using a Windows ISO via USB
If the Update Assistant proves unreliable, consider upgrading via a Windows ISO file.
- Download the Windows ISO from Microsoft’s official site.
- Create a bootable USB drive using Rufus or the Media Creation Tool.
- Launch setup.exe from the USB and select Upgrade.
Always ensure your important files are backed up before proceeding.
Summary
This guide provided comprehensive steps to tackle the ‘Can’t create files’ error during your Windows upgrade. Following the outlined steps can significantly increase your chances of a successful operation.
Conclusion
If you encounter issues during Windows upgrades, remember that permission settings and leftover files are often culprits. Following the steps above will pave the way for a seamless update experience. Don’t hesitate to repeat the troubleshooting until the upgrade succeeds.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Why do I get this error even though I am the administrator?
Even with administrator privileges, system folders may have restrictive permissions due to security policies or software. Right-click the installer and select Run as administrator. If it persists, consider disabling your antivirus temporarily.
Can antivirus software interfere with the Windows installation process?
Yes, security software can block installation by preventing changes to system folders. Disabling antivirus temporarily or adding exceptions for the installer might resolve these issues. Remember to re-enable protection after installation.