Are you encountering the frustrating “Windows cannot access the specified device” error while trying to launch Fortnite? This issue can be a major obstacle for gamers eager to dive into the world of Fortnite.
The full error message reads as,” Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item.”
Fortunately, there are several effective solutions to resolve this error and get back to gaming without interruption.
In this blog, we will explore step-by-step methods to fix the “Windows cannot access the specified device” error specifically in the context of Fortnite.
How To Fix Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device On Fortnite?
To fix “Windows cannot access the specified device” on Fortnite you can run epic games launcher as an administrator, change Fortnite’s compatibility settings, clear cache of epic games and Fortnite. Additionally, you can check file permission, unblock file, update windows and drivers, and verify game files.
1. Run Epic Games Launcher As An Administrator
A simple fix could be to run the Epic Games Launcher with administrative privileges, which ensures it has the necessary permissions to access all game files.
- Right-click on the Epic Games Launcher shortcut or executable.
- Choose “Run as administrator” from the context menu.
- Try launching Fortnite again to see if the problem is resolved.
2. Change Fortnite’s Compatibility Settings
Compatibility issues can sometimes cause access errors. Adjusting these settings for Fortnite might help the game run smoothly on your Windows system.
- Navigate to Fortnite’s installation folder.
- Locate FortniteClient-Win64-Shipping.exe.
- Right-click the file and select “Properties.”
- Click the “Compatibility” tab.
- Check “Run this program in compatibility mode for:” and select the Windows version recommended.
- Also, check “Run this program as an administrator.”
- Click “Apply,” then “OK.”
3. Clear The Cache For Fortnite And Epic Games
Over time, cache files can become corrupted, leading to various errors. Clearing these files can often resolve issues by forcing the game to create fresh, uncorrupted cache data.
- Close the Epic Games Launcher and any running Fortnite instances.
- Press Win+R, type %localappdata%, and press Enter.
- Open the “EpicGamesLauncher” folder.
- Delete the “Saved” folder inside to clear the cache.
- Navigate to the “FortniteGame” folder within %localappdata% and clear any cache files there as well.
4. Check File Permissions
Incorrect file permissions can prevent access to the game’s executable. Checking and modifying these permissions can ensure that your user account has the necessary rights to run Fortnite.
- Navigate to the folder where Fortnite is installed.
- Right-click on the Fortnite folder
- Select “Properties.”
- Go to the “Security” tab
- Click on “Edit” to modify permissions.
- Make sure your user account has full control or the necessary permissions.
- Apply the changes and click “OK.”
5. Unblock The File
Windows may block files it deems suspicious, which can sometimes include game executables. Unblocking the file might be the simple solution you need.
- Right-click on the Fortnite executable or the shortcut.
- Select “Properties” from the context menu.
- If you see an “Unblock” checkbox or button near the bottom of the General tab, check it or click the button.
- Click “Apply” and then “OK” to save the changes.
6. Verify Game Files
Corrupted or missing game files are a common source of errors. The Epic Games Launcher has a built-in tool to verify and fix any game file issues.
- Open the Epic Games Launcher.
- Go to your library
- Find Fortnite.
- Click on the three dots next to Fortnite
- Select “Verify” from the drop-down menu.
- The launcher will now scan and verify the integrity of the game files, replacing any corrupt or missing files.
7. Disable Antivirus Or Add An Exception
Antivirus programs are known to sometimes mistakenly block legitimate applications. Temporarily disabling your antivirus can help determine if it’s the source of the problem.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus software.
- Launch Fortnite to see if it resolves the issue.
- If successful, re-enable the antivirus and add an exception for Fortnite and Epic Games Launcher.
8. Update Windows And Drivers
Outdated system drivers or Windows versions can lead to compatibility issues with games. Keeping your system up to date is crucial for optimal performance and security.
- Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update.”
- Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
- Visit your graphics card manufacturer’s website and download the latest drivers.
9. Check For Malware
Malware can interfere with applications and cause various errors. A full system scan will help ensure that your system is clean and functioning properly.
- Run a full system scan with your antivirus software.
- Follow the antivirus prompts to deal with any detected malware.
10. Create A New User Account
Occasionally, a corrupt user profile can cause access issues. A new user account can serve as a clean slate for running applications like Fortnite.
- Go to “Settings” > “Accounts” > “Family & other users.”
- Click “Add someone else to this PC”
- Follow the prompts to create a new account.
- Log in with the new account
- Attempt to run Fortnite.
11. Uninstall And Reinstall Fortnite
If all else fails, a fresh install can often be the ultimate fix, ensuring that all game files are in their default state and free from corruption.
- Open Epic Games Launcher
- Go to your library.
- Click the three dots next to Fortnite
- Select “Uninstall.”
- Restart your computer after uninstallation.
- Reinstall Fortnite via the Epic Games Launcher.
12. Contact Epic Games Support
If you’ve exhausted all other troubleshooting steps, reaching out to the experts at Epic Games Support may provide you with a solution tailored to your specific situation.
They might have specific solutions for your problem or additional troubleshooting steps.