Patrick Domingues

Learn how to fix access denied error for CD/DVD RW drive in Windows. This guide enables burning of blank DVDs and CDs. Follow the steps to resolve the issue.

Introduction

Are you experiencing frustration and annoyance when trying to access your CD/DVD RW drive, only to be greeted with an infuriating “Access Denied” error message? Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the intricacies of fixing the CD/DVD RW access denied issue and granting the necessary permissions to regain control over your optical drive. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this troubleshooting journey!

Understanding the CD/DVD RW Access Denied Issue

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why this problem occurs in the first place. When you encounter an “Access Denied” error message while trying to access your CD/DVD RW drive, it usually means that the operating system or security settings are preventing you from using the drive. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including restrictive permissions, incompatible drivers, or even malware infections. The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can resolve this vexing issue and regain control over your optical drive.

How to Fix CD/DVD RW Access Denied – Grant Permission

Here are several effective methods you can try to fix the CD/DVD RW access denied issue and grant the necessary permission:

1. Update Your Device Drivers

Outdated or incompatible device drivers can often cause access denied errors. To rectify this, follow these steps:

1. Press Windows key + X on your keyboard and select Device Manager from the menu.
2. In the Device Manager window, locate your CD/DVD RW drive under the DVD/CD-ROM drives category.
3. Right-click on the drive and select Update driver.
4. Choose the Search automatically for updated driver software option.
5. Wait for the system to search and install the latest driver updates.

 

2. Modify Registry Settings

Altering the registry settings can sometimes resolve access denied issues related to your CD/DVD RW drive. However, proceed with caution as modifying the registry can have unintended consequences if done incorrectly. Follow these steps:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
3. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\atapi\Controller0.
4. Right-click on Controller0 and select Permissions.
5. Click on Add, enter Everyone, and click OK.
6. Check the Full Control box under the Allow column for the newly added user.
7. Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
8. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
9. Log in and proceed with pressing Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
10. Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
11. Navigate to the following registry key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Class\{4d36e965-e325-11ce-bfc1-08002be10318}\Properties
    • If Properties does not exist, you must create this folder.
      
      

12. Next expand Class{4D36E965-E325-11CE-BFC1-08002BE10318} to expose the Properties folder. If Properties is not listed create a Properties key folder.

    Create the following two DWORDS within the properties folder.

    • a. Name: DeviceType
      Type: reg_dword
      Hex Value: 00000002
    • b. Name: DeviceCharacteristics
      Type: reg_dword
      Hex Value: 00000100
13. Restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
14. Try your access.

3. Grant Permissions through Command Prompt (Continued)

1. Press Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command: reg.exe add “HKLM\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\atapi\Controller0” /f /v EnumDevice1 /t REG_DWORD /d 0x00000001.
3. Press Enter to execute the command.
4. Close the Command Prompt window and restart your computer.
5. After the restart, check if the access denied issue has been resolved.

4. Check Group Policy Settings

Group Policy settings can impose restrictions on certain functions, including CD/DVD drive access. Adjusting these settings might help resolve the access denied issue. Here’s what you can do:

1. Press Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
3. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access.
4. Double-click on the All Removable Storage classes: Deny all access policy.
5. Select the Disabled option and click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
6. Restart your computer and check if the access denied error persists.

 

FAQs about CD/DVD RW Access Denied Issue

Now, let’s address some frequently asked questions about fixing the CD/DVD RW access denied problem:

1. Why am I getting an “Access Denied” error when trying to access my CD/DVD RW drive?

The “Access Denied” error typically occurs due to restrictive permissions, incompatible drivers, or security settings preventing access to the CD/DVD RW drive.

2. Can updating the device drivers fix the access denied issue?

Yes, updating the device drivers can resolve the problem. Outdated or incompatible drivers can often cause access denied errors. Make sure to update your CD/DVD RW drive’s driver to the latest version.

3. Is it safe to modify registry settings?

Modifying registry settings can be risky if not done correctly. It’s important to follow the instructions carefully and back up your registry before making any changes. If you’re unsure, it’s best to seek assistance from a knowledgeable person or professional.

4. Will disabling third-party security software help?

Yes, temporarily disabling third-party security software can help identify if it’s causing the access denied issue. However, it’s important to remember to re-enable the software after troubleshooting to ensure continued protection.

5. How can I check if malware is causing the access denied error?

Running a thorough malware scan using reliable antivirus software is the best way to check for malware infections. Make sure your antivirus is up to date and ensure you perform a full system scan. The antivirus software will detect and remove any malware that might be causing the access denied error.

6. What should I do if none of the above methods work?

If none of the above methods resolve the CD/DVD RW access denied issue, you can try the following additional steps:

• Check for Windows Updates: Keeping your operating system up to date is crucial for optimal performance. Check for any pending Windows updates and install them.

• Try a Different User Account: Create a new user account on your computer and check if the access denied error occurs in the new account. If not, it indicates that the issue might be specific to your user account.

• Use System Restore: If the problem started occurring recently, you can try restoring your system to a previous point in time using the System Restore feature. This can help revert any system changes that might be causing the access denied error.

Remember to create a backup of your important files and data before attempting any major system changes or restore points.

Conclusion

Encountering an “Access Denied” error when trying to access your CD/DVD RW drive can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can regain control and fix the issue. In this guide, we’ve explored various methods, such as updating drivers, modifying registry settings, disabling security software, granting permissions through Command Prompt, scanning for malware infections, and checking group policy settings.

Always proceed with caution when making changes to your system settings or registry, and it’s a good practice to back up your data before attempting any major modifications. If the issue persists or you’re unsure about the troubleshooting steps, it’s recommended to seek assistance from a knowledgeable person or professional.

Now that you have a comprehensive understanding of how to fix the CD/DVD RW access denied issue and grant permission, you can apply these methods to regain control over your optical drive and enjoy seamless access to your CD and DVD media.

 

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