Windows – “Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file.” error on windows 8, WITH JUST INSTALLATION EXE , NOT executable shortcuts

administratorinstallation-packageuacwindows 8

I am the Admin on windows 8 enterprise, I have my UAC prompt turned off. I ALWAYS (regardless of UAC prompt settings) receive this error when running ALL EXE files which are only installation packages but no problem with running EXE shortcut of already installed apps.

The error is: " Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item."

I can't post the image as I need 10 reputation points but the title bar of error window states the address of my "temp" folder which sounds that must be accessible during installation process.

I can bypass the error by right click and Run As Administrator. but I don't want this.

I need to make it as default in my system so that no more right click is needed. Moreover I would be able to run them from inside IDM download list where no Run As Administrator is found in its right click menu.

your help is highly appreciated.

Best Answer

I found the solution in changing a registry key which exactly does what I need but some side effects too. Thanks to user1832687 I was able to fully disable UAC in windows 8.

I went to:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System

And found:

Ena‌​bleLUA

and changed the value from 1 to 0

closed the Registry Edit window and rebooted.

Results:

  1. I don't receive any UAC prompt over running any EXE file, whether or not it is installation package and whether or not it is being run through other places than windows explorer, e.g IDM download list.
  2. I still have "Run As Administrator" visible and functional in my right clicks context menu
  3. And finally and most importantly, on running exe installation files, THE ERROR BELOW NO LONGER HIT MY SCREEN:

" Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item."

Side Effect:

I can't run any metro app! any idea?

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