4 Fixes! Unable to Execute File in the Temporary Directory

Have you ever encountered this error: Unable to execute the file in the temporary directory. Setup aborted. Error 5: Access is denied when you install new apps. Here are 4 effective fixes for you.

By @Lori Last Updated September 13, 2024

Encountering the "Unable to execute the file in the temporary directory. Setup aborted. Error 5: Access is denied" error can be perplexing and disruptive to your system's normal functioning.

Fear not, as this comprehensive guide is here to provide you with 4 effective methods to fix unable to execute file in the temporary directory issue.  From basic troubleshooting steps to the advanced capabilities of MyRecover, let's embark on the journey of getting your system back on track.

Decode "Unable to Execute File in the Temporary Directory" Error

Understanding the nuances of the "Unable to Execute File in the Temporary Directory" error is crucial before delving into solutions.

This error often occurs when the system encounters issues with executing files from temporary directories, leading to operational disruptions. It means that you are trying to make modifications to the folder which you don't have access to, so you can see the notification - "Access is denied".

4 Fixes to Unable to Execute File in the Temporary Directory

1. Check System Permissions for Temporary Directory

In many cases, inadequate permissions for the temporary directory can lead to this error.

Steps to check system permissions to unable to execute file in the temporary directory

  • Navigate to %temp% or C:\Users\[Username]\AppData\Local.
  • Right-click on the Temp folder and select Properties.
  • Click the Security tab, then click Advanced.
⚠️Note: On the Permissions tab, you should see three entries. All three should be inherited from the C:\Users\[Username]\ folder.
  • 'SYSTEM' with Full control, applying to 'This folder, subfolders, and files'.
  • 'Administrators' with Full control, applying to 'This folder, subfolders, and files'.
  • 'Your Username' with Full control, applying to 'This folder, subfolders, and files'.
  • If the 'Include inheritable permissions from this object's parent' option isn't ticked, select it and click Continue if any problems arise. Remove any permissions that aren't inherited.
  • Click Apply, then OK. This will grant the necessary permissions to write to the directory and prevent those error messages.

2. Clean Temporary Files

Accumulated temporary files may interfere with file execution. Cleaning the temporary directory can resolve this issue.

Steps to clean temporary files to fix unable to execute file in the temporary directory issue

  1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type %temp% and press Enter to open the temporary directory.
  3. Select all files and folders and delete them.
  4. Confirm the deletion and check if the error persists.

3. Verify System Path Variables

Ensure that the system path variables are correctly configured to include the necessary directories.

Steps to verify system path variables to fix unable to execute file in the temporary directory error 5

  1. Right-click on "This PC" or "Computer" and select "Properties."
  2. Click on "Advanced system settings" on the left.
  3. Under the "Advanced" tab, click on "Environment Variables."
  4. In the "System variables" section, locate and edit the "Path" variable.
  5. Ensure that the necessary directories are listed in the path.

4. Run System File Checker (SFC)

Running SFC can help identify and repair corrupted system files that might be causing the error.

Steps to run SFC to fix unable to execute file in the temporary directory in windows 10

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Allow the scan to complete, and follow any prompts for repairs.
  4. Reboot your system and check if the error persists.

Bouns Tips: How to Recover Lost/Deleted Data Easily

Since fixing this error will result in data loss, and data loss happens every day, it's crucial to use data recovery software tools to rescue your data at the first opportunity. If you need to recover deleted or lost files, free data recovery software like MyRecover can help. MyRecover allows you to recover lost files with just a simple click.

MyRecover
Professional Data Recovery Software
  • It can recover the deleted/lost Word, Excel, PPT, PDF, Photos, Videos, Audio, folders, compressed files, and more.

  • Filter and preview recoverable files before initiating the recovery process, allowing you to selectively recover essential data.

  • Recover deleted files from external hard drive, emptied recycle bin, memory card, USB flash drive, digital camera, and more.

  • Supports data recovery under different circumstances such as deletion, formatting, virus attacks, system crashes, etc.

Download and install the software on your computer and go through the guide below to recover permanently deleted files in Windows 10/11 easily.

Step 1. Launch MyRecover and hover the mouse over the drive and click Scan.

Step 2. Wait for the process of scanning deleted or lost files and select a whole drive, a folder, or a single file for restoration. You can enable Filter to directly locate the file type you want and preview the file before recovery.

🌟3 Options in the Filter:

  • Type: It will contain all the file types in the local drive, such as, images, videos, documents, mails, webpage, compressed files, etc.
  • Data Modified: It supports today, yesterday, last 7 days, last 30 days, and custom. To recover deleted files at a specific time period, try the last option.
  • Size: It allows you to filter file size from less than 128KB to 128KB ~1MB to 1MB ~ 512MB and above, or custom.

Step 3. Select your desired files and click Recover x Files to restore. You will then be asked to choose a location for the recovered files, please select a new location to prevent data overwriting.

🌟Tips:

  • In this way, you could recover permanently deleted files in Windows 10 easily. Also, this tool can allow you to recover accidentally formatted hard drive/sd card/USB drive, etc.

  • MyRecover offers a free edition to get back permanently deleted files, up to 500MB. For unlimited filerecovery, please upgrade MyRecover and subscribe to the Monthly/Yearly/Lifetime version.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the "Unable to Execute File in the Temporary Directory" error doesn't have to be a roadblock in your system's operation. Dealing with this error can be challenging, but with the right methods and tools, you can restore your system's normal functioning. After that, you may also want to know how to recover deleted user profile in Windows 10/11.

Whether it's checking permissions, cleaning temporary files, verifying system path variables, running SFC, there's a solution tailored to your needs. What's more, MyRecover, in particular, stands out as a reliable tool for seamless data recovery.

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FAQs

What is the C:\Temp directory?

The Temp folder is a directory on a Windows PC used to store temporary files. Clearing the Temp folder is a common system administration task to free up storage space.

What is error code 5 unable to execute file?

Error code 5 is a Windows error code that indicates that the user does not have sufficient permissions to access the requested file or location. This error occurs when the software is denied access to save, copy, open or load files.

What causes temporary files?

Temporary files are created to temporarily store information, to free up memory for other purposes, or to act as a safety net to prevent data loss during certain program functions. For example, Word automatically creates temporary files as needed.

How do I fix temp files in Windows 10?

Microsoft includes a Disk Cleanup tool in Windows 10 to help you delete temporary and cache files. In this order:

  • Type "disk cleanup" into the search bar.
  • Select the drive you want to clean and click OK.

How to clear temporary files on C drive?

Right-click on the system drive and select Properties. On the General tab, select Disk Cleanup. Scroll down in the list of files to delete and select Temporary Files. Click OK and select Yes to confirm.