If you've recently encountered the frustrating issue of being unable to run any program as an administrator on your Windows 10 computer, and instead receiving the file system error (-1073740791), you're not alone. This problem can disrupt your workflow and prevent you from accessing critical applications. In this article, we’ll delve into this issue, provide potential fixes, and offer practical insights to help you get back on track.
Understanding the Problem
Original Problem Scenario
You may find yourself in a situation where you attempt to open a program with administrative privileges, only to be met with an error message indicating a file system error (-1073740791). This commonly occurs when there are underlying system file issues, corrupted settings, or even malware affecting your system.
Example Code of the Problem
While the problem is not directly associated with specific code, it’s indicative of system-level errors within Windows 10 that manifest during administrative actions.
Analyzing the Error (-1073740791)
The error code (-1073740791) usually signifies a failure in the system’s ability to perform a necessary function due to corruption or conflict within the system files. This could be the result of several factors, including:
- Corrupted User Profile: Your user account settings may be damaged, preventing administrative access.
- Infected Files: Malware may compromise system functionality.
- Faulty System Updates: Incomplete or erroneous updates can cause instability.
Potential Solutions to the Error
Now that we've established the nature of the problem, here are several methods to resolve the issue:
1. Perform a System File Check (SFC)
Running the SFC scan can help repair corrupted system files. Here’s how:
-
Press
Windows + Xand select Windows Terminal (Admin). -
Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow -
Wait for the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions.
2. Check for Windows Updates
Ensure your system is up to date, as updates can resolve underlying issues. To check for updates:
- Open Settings (
Windows + I). - Go to Update & Security and click on Windows Update.
- Click on Check for updates and install any available updates.
3. Create a New User Profile
If your user account is corrupted, creating a new profile might be the best solution:
- Go to Settings > Accounts > Family & other users.
- Click on Add someone else to this PC.
- Follow the instructions to create a new user, and then check if the error persists when using this new profile.
4. Run Antivirus Scans
Malware can interfere with system operations, so ensure your system is clean:
- Use Windows Defender or your installed antivirus to perform a full system scan.
- Additionally, consider using malware detection tools like Malwarebytes for a more thorough check.
5. Perform a Repair Install of Windows 10
If the above methods do not resolve the issue, a repair install may be necessary. This process reinstalls Windows without affecting your files:
- Download the Windows 10 Installation Media from the Microsoft website.
- Create a bootable USB drive or use the Media Creation Tool to upgrade directly.
Additional Tips
- Regularly backup your data to prevent loss during troubleshooting.
- Keep your system drivers updated.
- Utilize Windows' built-in troubleshooting tools for additional assistance.
Conclusion
Dealing with the file system error (-1073740791) when trying to run programs as an administrator can be frustrating, but the solutions above should help you regain functionality in your Windows 10 system. Always be proactive about maintaining your system's health to minimize such issues in the future.
Useful Resources
By understanding the root causes and applying the suggested solutions, you can solve this problem efficiently and continue your work without interruptions.
