How to Fix 'System Error 5'

Command  Prompt is an extremely versatile and convenient Windows tool that allows users to perform various tasks that otherwise might have required more time significantly. When trying to execute a command via Command Prompt, some users might encounter an error message stating 'System error 5 has occurred.' What this usually means is that the current user doesn't have the required privileges to run the particular command. If you are seeing the 'System error 5' message, then make sure that you are logged in to an account having admin rights and, equally as important, that you are running an elevated Command Prompt. 

Dealing with the 'System Error 5' on Windows 10

After logging in using an admin account, you will need to start an elevated command prompt. There are at least three different ways to do so on systems running Windows 10. Users can manually navigate to the Command Prompt's executable file, right-click it, and select 'Run as administrator' from the available options. They can also use the 'Start new task' function of Task Manager. For the arguably easiest way, however, just follow the steps:

1. Type command prompt in the search field on the Taskbar.
2. Either right-click the top result and choose 'Run as administrator' or choose 'Run as administrator from the options available on the right.
3. Depending on your Windows settings, a User Account Control prompt might be generated. Simply, click the 'Yes' button to allow Command Prompt to be able to make changes to the computer.
4. An elevated Command Prompt window will now be opened.

Dealing with the 'System Error 5' on Windows 7

To open an elevated Command Prompt on computers running Windows 7, do the following:

1. Click on the Start menu icon. Usually, it is located on the left side of the Taskbar.
2. Type command prompt in the Search field.
3. From the available results, right-click Command Prompt and select 'Run as administrator' from the contextual menu.
4. Based on your Windows settings, a User Account Control pop-up window might appear. Click on 'Yes' to allow the program to make changes to the computer.
5. An elevated Command Prompt window will then be launched.