How to fix
Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client
on Windows

Could you please tell me why I can neither save, copy-paste nor delete files and docs to my C:/ drive? Each time I try to perform any of these actions, I receive this message: Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client. Is it difficult to fix this issue? Please help me if you can.

Error 0x80070522 is an identification that your activity on the computer can potentially harm its system. This code warns that the user is trying to access essential operating system files which should NOT be modified or transferred to another place. Likewise, if you encounter this message, there is a strong possibility that you should stop right away.

You can encounter Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client message on Windows when trying to alter the location or the file itself in the following folders:

• Windows;
• Program Files;
• System32[ref en-1].

It is vital to understand that Error code 0x80070522 is designed to protect you from unconsciously damaging your system. Therefore, you should carefully introspect your activity before proceeding. Our experts recommend you NOT to perform any significant modifications in the folders mentioned above.

However, if you are experienced enough and have an important reason for modifying that folder, we will provide several tips that could help you to fix Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client. Although, keep in mind that such activity can potentially harm your system.

Learn how to fix Error 0x80070522 on Windows

Below we have provided 2 different ways which should help you fix Error 0x80070522 and get rid of A required privilege that is not held by the client message. However, in some cases, this alert can be triggered by malware[ref en-2] on the system. 

Therefore, if you notice suspicious activity or an unexpected appearance of Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client alert, you should get a professional antivirus right away.

It is vital to scan your computer files and eliminate all cyber threats that might damage your PC or put your privacy at risk. For that, we suggest downloading a reputable system optimization software, like [d1].

Method 1. Run as Administrator to avoid Error 0x80070522

In order to create a file in one of the Windows’ root folders, run the program as an Administrator[ref en-3]. For example, if you need to create a Microsoft Word doc, right-click on it and select Run as Administrator. You can do the same with any program (Notepad, Photoshop, etc.), so try that. However, we should warn you that running as an Administrator is not the safest way to use your computer.

Method 2. Use Command Prompt to gain administrative rights

For Windows 10/8:

• Right-Click on Windows icon (bottom left corner of the screen) and select Command Prompt (Admin).

For Windows 7/XP:

• Click on Start and select Run as Administrator.

Beware that the two methods listed above are easy and safe to encounter. The following way showing how to fix Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client are a bit more difficult, so make sure to perform each step very carefully.

Method 3. Get rid of Error 0x80070522 by disabling Admin Approval Mode 

1. Click Windows button and R simultaneously to open Run dialogue.
   

   

   
   
2. Type secpol.msc command and press Enter after that.
3. If a confirmation window appears, click OK.
   

   

4. Now you should see a Local Security Policy window. Go to the Local Policies (left pane) and click on Security Options.
5. Scroll down and locate User Account Control: Run all administrators in Admin Approval Mode.
6. Right-click on it, choose Properties and opt for Disable.
   

   

   
   
7. Don’t forget to click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
8. Finally, close Local Security Policy window and reboot your device.

Now try to copy the needed file in the required destination folder, which earlier delivered you an error code 0x80070522.

We hope that this has helped you fix Error 0x80070522: A required privilege is not held by the client.

NOTE:  if you encounter other errors on Windows, we would highly recommend installing a PC optimization tool. This software is extremely helpful in fighting against registry errors, startup issues, cache, malware, and similar PC-related issues. Thus, we would highly recommend downloading and running [d1] software.