When upgrading Windows using the Windows Installation Assistant, you might encounter a “Can’t create files” error, halting the upgrade process. This issue often stems from insufficient permissions, restrictive security settings, or corrupted files within the Windows Update cache. The complete error message typically reads: “Can’t create files. Please check if you have permission to write to the installation folder.”
This post offers several solutions to resolve this error and successfully upgrade Windows.
Use Windows ISO (USB) to upgrade
If the Update Assistant is causing problems, upgrading via an ISO file offers a robust alternative. Microsoft provides the ISO file officially.
Step 1: Download the Windows ISO from the Microsoft website.
Step 2: Use Rufus or the Media Creation Tool to create a bootable USB drive.
Step 3: Run setup.exe from the USB drive and select Upgrade.
Make sure to back up your important files before beginning.
Reset user permissions
If you prefer not to create a new user account, you can attempt to reset the permissions for your existing account.
Step 1: Open Windows Terminal as Administrator.
Step 2: Run the following command:
icacls C:\ /grant Everyone:F /T /C /Q
This resets all permissions on the C: drive.
Step 3: If necessary, reset ownership of Windows installation folders using the following commands:
takeown /f C:\Windows\ /r /d y
icacls C:\Windows\ /grant administrators:F /t
After resetting permissions, retry the Windows update.
Create a Local administrator account
A straightforward solution is to create a new local administrator account and use that account to perform the Windows upgrade. A new account will have default security and permission settings.
Step 1: Go to Settings > Accounts > Other users.
Step 2: Choose the option to add a user without a Microsoft account.
Step 3: Follow the prompts to create a local administrator account.
Clear Update Assistant & leftover files
Sometimes, old or corrupted files can trigger this error. Removing these files might resolve the issue.
Step 1: Delete the contents of the Windows Installation Assistant folder, typically located at: C:\Users\<YourUser>\AppData\Local\Temp.
Step 2: Remove Temporary Files and Windows Update Cleanup files via Settings > System > Storage > Clean up recommendations.
Step 3: Delete the files from the SoftwareDistribution folder.
Run Windows Update troubleshooter
Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter designed to automatically identify and resolve common update problems.
Step 1: Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Step 2: Locate Windows Update and click the Run button.
Step 3: Allow the troubleshooter to complete, then attempt the Windows update again.
Why do I get this error even though I am the administrator?
Even with an administrator account, specific system folders and files can have restricted permissions due to security policies, Windows Defender, or third-party security software. Try right-clicking the installer and selecting Run as administrator. If it continues, temporarily disable your antivirus software and retry the installation.
Can antivirus software interfere with the Windows installation process?
Yes, antivirus and similar security software can sometimes block or interfere with Windows installations. These tools often prevent modifications to system folders to safeguard against malicious activities, potentially blocking the installer from accessing necessary files. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or creating exceptions for the installer can resolve this. Remember to re-enable your antivirus after the installation is finished.
By methodically applying these solutions, you should be able to overcome the “Can’t create files” error and successfully upgrade your Windows system.