Windows cannot access the specified device, path or file. You may not have appropriate permissions to access the item.

1.While opening some application through shortcut (not all) from desktop or quick launch an error message is displayed saying "windows cannot access the specified device, path or file. you may not have appropriate permissions to access the item." -with the location of the application in the title bar of the error message window.
2.While opening the the personalization option (after right-clicking the desktop) and going to options like screensaver, themes and display setting the same message is displayed(as mentioned above) with this location specified in the title bar of the error message window :-
C:\Windows\system32\rundll32.exe
Answer
Answer

Hi,

Do you encounter the same issue while logged in as other users on the same computer?

You may follow below methods which may help you to resolve your issue:

Method 1:

Try performing SFC scan on the computer.

SFC /scannow is a super-useful command you can use in any Windows version. When the SFC (System File Checker) command is used with the /scannow switch, the tool will scan all of the important Windows files on your computer and replace them as necessary.

Missing and corrupt operating system files (like many DLL files) are arguably the biggest cause of major Windows issues. Considering that, plus the fact that SFC /scannow is completely automatic and very easy to use, the tool should usually be one of your first troubleshooting steps.

Refer:

How to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files on Windows Vista or on Windows 7
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929833

Method 2:

If the issue doesn’t get resolved then you may try performing a system restore to revert back to the correctly working settings, to do that follow the instructions below:
a. Click Start, type system restore in the Start Search box, and then click System Restore in the Programs list.If you are prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type your password or click Continue.
b. In the System Restore dialog box, click Choose a different restore point, and then click Next.
c. In the list of restore points, click a restore point that was created before you began to experience the issue, and then click Next.
d. Click Finish.

For more information refer this below link.
System Restore: frequently asked questions
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/System-Restore-frequently-asked-questions

Microsoft-Forum Moderator

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Last updated February 5, 2020 Views 9,035 Applies to: