Welcome to a guide crafted by Chifundo Kasiya, a seasoned Windows expert with years of experience unraveling the intricacies of Windows systems. Chifundo is here to provide practical solutions to overcome the vexing “access control entry is corrupt” error that can disrupt your computing experience.

Understanding the Access Control List (ACL)

The Access Control List, or ACL, acts as a gatekeeper on your computer, managing permissions for various resources like files and folders. This article delves into the workings of ACL and the havoc that a corrupted one can wreak, leading to the error message you encounter.

1. Perform an SFC or CHKDSK Scan

Chifundo’s first recommendation is to initiate an SFC (System File Checker) scan. This scan targets and repairs corrupt system files that may be affecting the proper functioning of your ACL. If the issue persists, Chifundo advises using the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) scan, which draws from a cached Windows system image file. In more complex cases, the error might be tied to hard disk errors, requiring a CHKDSK scan to rectify.

2. Close All Universal Windows Platform (UWP) Apps

This section uncovers an unexpected culprit behind the error – Universal Windows Platform (UWP) apps. Despite their isolated environment, these apps can occasionally lock resources and trigger the “access control entry is corrupt” error. Chifundo guides you through the process of identifying and shutting down problematic UWP apps, ensuring a smoother user experience.

3. Change Ownership of the Affected File or Folder

Taking ownership of a file or folder can sometimes resolve the “access control entry is corrupt” error. To do that, follow the steps below:

1. Right-click the file or folder and select Properties.

   

   Select the Security tab and then click on Advanced at the bottom to open the Advanced Securities window for the file.

   

   Next to the Owner, check to see if your username is listed as the owner of the file or folder. If it isn’t, that may be the problem. So, click on the Change link next to it to open the Select User or Group window.

   

   Click Advanced to open the Select User or Group (Advanced) window.

   

   Click Find Now to search for the available users on your Windows computer.

   

   In the search results at the bottom, select your username and click OK.

   

   Back in the Select User or Group window, click OK.
   In the Advanced Securities window, click Apply and then OK.
   Now that you’ve changed ownership, try accessing the file or folder again and see if the error still shows up.

4. Try Accessing the File or Folder From a Different User Account

If the error persists due to a potentially corrupted user account, Chifundo suggests a workaround – creating a new user account. By accessing files from this alternate account, you can determine if the error persists. If successful, Chifundo provides guidance on seamlessly transferring essential files from the old to the new account.

5. Restore the Access Control List

As a final resort, Chifundo recommends restoring the Access Control List itself. This advanced step requires careful preparation and caution. Chifundo emphasizes the importance of backing up your system before proceeding with a factory reset, which serves as the ultimate solution to eliminate the “access control entry is corrupt” error.

Key Solutions at a Glance

Comparative Overview: Restoring Your Access

Conclusion: Reclaim Your Windows Experience

Bid farewell to the frustrating “access control entry is corrupt” error that hinders your Windows experience. Thanks to Chifundo’s expert guidance, you now possess the tools to resolve this issue and regain control over your files and folders. Don’t let a glitch hold you back – take charge of your system once again.