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Question

Error 5 - Setup was unable to create the directory

Apr 13, 2015 11:35PM PDT

anytime I try to install any program I get this error:

Setup was unable to create the directory "E:\Program Files\..."

Error 5: Access is denied.

I have not made any recent changes to my firewall, or antivirus... but I did delete some empty "temp" folders on my C: drive "documents & settings" area, because I thought they were useless.

I've been reading up on this error, and I think deleting those folders may have caused the problem, but I'm not sure. I don't remember where they were, and I'm not sure if it's as simple as just re-creating the folders again. oh and I'm using windows xp.

Any help greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

Discussion is locked

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Answer
Re: setup error
Apr 13, 2015 11:43PM PDT

- What's your e:\drive where you want to install those programs? From that c:\documents and settings I get the impression that your Windows and Program Files folders are on your c:-drive.
- Can you make a folder e:\program files\xxxx from Windows Explorer?
- What exactly were those empty "temp" folders? I mean, there can only one folder with the name c:\documents and settings\yourusername\temp

Kees

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Error 5 - Setup was unable to create the directory
Apr 14, 2015 7:57AM PDT

I usually install all my programs on E: and do not clutter up my C: drive with anything other than what NEEDS to be on there.

I've never had any problems with installing on E: until now. The temp files I deleted from C: were mostly from the documents and settings folder I think.

I already have a E:\Program Files folder. that's where most of my programs are.

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A few apps crater when asked to install on other than C
Apr 14, 2015 8:25AM PDT

If you can share the app's title, maybe someone can verify.
Bob