Microsoft Windows Error Code 0x80070306: How to Fix It

Medium 30-60 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0x80070306
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
hresult
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
30-60 minutes
Error 0x80070306 means Windows could not grant you access to a resource. This typically happens when user account permissions are corrupted or the security database is damaged. The error can affect logging into Windows, accessing shared folders, or running certain applications.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 0x80070306

  1. Run System File Checker (SFC)

    Do not interrupt the scan.

  2. Perform a DISM Repair

  3. Check User Account Permissions

  4. Reset Windows Security Database

    This resets security policies to default.

  5. Perform a System Restore

    Your personal files are not affected, but installed programs after the restore point may need reinstallation.
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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after trying all steps, your Windows installation may be severely damaged. Consider booting from a Windows installation media and running Startup Repair or reinstalling Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes error 0x80070306?
The error is usually caused by corrupted user profiles, damaged security database, or system file corruption. It can also occur after failed Windows updates or malware infection.
Can I fix error 0x80070306 without reinstalling Windows?
Yes, in most cases the error can be fixed using built-in Windows repair tools like SFC, DISM, and System Restore. Reinstalling is a last resort.
Does error 0x80070306 affect all user accounts?
It can, but often it only affects the current user account. Try logging in with another admin account to see if the problem is user-specific.
Will I lose data by running these fixes?
No, the steps in this guide are designed to preserve your files. However, creating a backup before making changes is always a good practice.
What if I get an 'Access denied' error while running commands?
Make sure you are running the Command Prompt as an Administrator. If the error persists, you may need to boot into Safe Mode with Networking and try again.

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