While trying to install or update your NVIDIA graphics drivers, you may see this frustrating message:

“NVIDIA Installer failed”
Error Code: 0x80070005

This is one of the most common installer errors, and it usually stops the process before your GPU driver can be installed or updated. The good news is—it’s usually a system-level permissions issue, not a problem with your graphics card.

Let’s break down what this error means and how you can fix it.

Why You’re Seeing “NVIDIA Installer failed” Error Code: 0x80070005?

This error code translates to “Access Denied.” The NVIDIA installer tried to write or update files but wasn’t allowed to by Windows. That can happen due to security software, limited user permissions, or leftover driver files from past installs.

Some of the most common causes are:

• Running the installer without administrator rights
• Antivirus or Windows Defender blocking the installer
• Corrupt or incomplete previous NVIDIA driver installation
• Windows permission settings blocking access to system folders
• Interference from User Account Control (UAC)

How to Fix NVIDIA Installer Error 0x80070005

Follow these steps in order. One of them should solve the issue.

Step 1: Run the Installer as Administrator

This is the easiest and most important fix.

Right-click the NVIDIA installer file (usually a .exe) and choose “Run as Administrator.” This gives the installer the proper access to modify system files and folders.

Step 2: Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Windows Defender

Security software sometimes mistakes GPU drivers for system-level threats.

Turn off the following before installing:

• Windows Defender: Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Windows Security > Virus & Threat Protection > Manage Settings > Turn off Real-Time Protection.
• Third-party antivirus: Open your antivirus dashboard and disable protection temporarily.
• Firewall (if needed): Some firewalls block driver installers. You can disable it from Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn off.

Be sure to re-enable protection after installation.

Step 3: Do a Clean Driver Install

You can select “Custom Installation” in the NVIDIA setup and then check “Perform a Clean Install.” This removes previous drivers and avoids conflicts.

If that still doesn’t work, use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU):

1. Boot into Safe Mode
2. Run DDU to fully remove all NVIDIA drivers
3. Restart the PC
4. Download and run the latest NVIDIA driver from their official website

Step 4: Check User Permissions and UAC Settings

Make sure your Windows account has admin privileges.

Then disable User Account Control temporarily:

• Search UAC in the Start Menu
• Slide the bar to “Never Notify”
• Click OK and reboot your PC

Try the installer again. You can re-enable UAC later for security.

Step 5: Unblock the Installer File (If Blocked by Windows)

Windows sometimes flags downloaded files from the internet.

To unblock:

1. Right-click the NVIDIA installer
2. Select Properties
3. If you see a checkbox labeled Unblock, check it
4. Click Apply, then run the installer again

Step 6: Reset Folder Permissions (Advanced)

If the installer can’t access the NVIDIA program folder, you may need to reset its permissions.

Here’s how:

• Open Command Prompt as Administrator
• Type this command:icacls “C:\Program Files\NVIDIA Corporation” /grant administrators:F /T
• Press Enter, then try installing again

This command forces Windows to allow admin-level write access to the folder.

Step 7: Try GeForce Experience or Update Windows

Sometimes using GeForce Experience instead of the standalone installer can bypass the issue. Download it from NVIDIA’s website if you haven’t already.

Also, make sure your Windows system is fully updated:

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates
2. Install all pending updates and restart your PC
3. Then retry the driver installation

Still Not Working? Contact NVIDIA Support

If none of the steps solve your problem, it’s best to reach out to NVIDIA Support.

When contacting support, include:

• Your Windows version (e.g., Windows 11 Home 64-bit)
• Your GPU model
• The full error message or screenshot
• Steps you’ve already tried

They may provide you with a custom fix or cleanup script.

Conclusion

Error 0x80070005 during NVIDIA driver installation means your system is blocking access, not that your GPU is broken. Start with running the installer as admin, disable security tools temporarily, and try a clean install. Adjust your system permissions if needed, and don’t hesitate to use DDU if the regular installer fails.

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