How To Fix Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device On Fortnite

By Angel Marquez | 2023-11-29 01:12:34
Discover effective solutions to How To Fix Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device On Fortnite.

Are you facing the frustrating "Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device" error while trying to play Fortnite? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this guide, we will walk you through a series of steps to fix this issue and ensure smooth gameplay on your Windows system. So, let's get started!

How To Fix Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device On Fortnite


Section 1: Run Epic Games Launcher with Administrative Privileges


To begin troubleshooting, let's start by running the Epic Games Launcher as an administrator. This simple step can often resolve many access-related errors. Here's how to do it:
  • 1. Right-click on the Epic Games Launcher shortcut or executable file.
  • 2. From the context menu, select "Run as administrator".
  • 3. If prompted, click "Yes" to allow the program to make changes to your system.

Section 2: Adjust Compatibility Settings


Sometimes, compatibility issues can lead to the "Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device" error. Follow these steps to adjust compatibility settings for the Epic Games Launcher:
  • 1. Right-click on the Epic Games Launcher shortcut or executable file.
  • 2. Select "Properties" from the context menu.
  • 3. In the Properties window, navigate to the "Compatibility" tab.
  • 4. Check the box that says "Run this program in compatibility mode for".
  • 5. Choose a compatible operating system from the drop-down menu.
  • 6. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Section 3: Clear Cache and Check File Permissions


Corrupted cache files or incorrect file permissions may cause access problems. Let's clear the cache and check file permissions using these steps:
  • 1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the following directory: C:\Users\[Your Username]\AppData\Local\EpicGamesLauncher.
  • 2. Delete all the files and folders within that directory.
  • 3. Next, navigate to the following directory: C:\Program Files (x86)\Epic Games.
  • 4. Right-click on the Epic Games folder and select "Properties".
  • 5. In the Properties window, go to the "Security" tab.
  • 6. Click on "Edit" to modify the permissions.
  • 7. Ensure that your user account has full control over the folder.
  • 8. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Section 4: Unblock the File


In some cases, Windows might block certain files from running properly, triggering access errors. To unblock the file related to Fortnite, follow these instructions:

  • 1. Locate the file that is giving you the "Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device" error.
  • 2. Right-click on the file and select "Properties".
  • 3. In the Properties window, check the box that says "Unblock" if it is available.
  • 4. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

Section 5: Verify Game Files



Verifying game files helps ensure that all necessary game components are intact. Let's verify Fortnite game files using these steps:

  • 1. Open the Epic Games Launcher.
  • 2. Go to your library and find Fortnite.
  • 3. Click on the three dots next to the game and select "Verify".
  • 4. Wait for the verification process to complete.

Section 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software


Antivirus software sometimes interferes with game processes and can trigger access errors. Temporarily disabling your antivirus might help in resolving the issue. Here's how:

  • 1. Locate the antivirus software icon in your system tray.
  • 2. Right-click on the icon and look for an option to disable or pause the protection.
  • 3. Choose the appropriate option to disable the antivirus temporarily.
  • 4. Launch Fortnite and see if the error persists.

Section 7: Update Windows and Drivers


Outdated Windows versions or drivers can cause compatibility issues with Fortnite. To avoid such problems, make sure your operating system and drivers are up-to-date by following these steps:

  • 1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  • 2. Go to "Update & Security" and click on "Windows Update".
  • 3. Click on "Check for updates" and install any available updates.
  • 4. To update your drivers, you can either visit the manufacturer's website manually or use a driver update tool to automate the process.

Section 8: Check for Malware


Malware infections can occasionally affect system performance and cause various errors. Scan your computer for malware using these instructions:

  • 1. Install a reputable antivirus or anti-malware program if you don't have one already.
  • 2. Perform a full system scan and let the program remove any detected threats.
  • 3. Restart your computer and try running Fortnite again.

Section 9: Create a New User Account


If the issue persists, creating a new user account can help identify if the problem is specific to your current profile. Follow these steps to create a new user account:

  • 1. Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
  • 2. Go to "Accounts" and click on "Family & other people".
  • 3. Under "Other people", click on "Add someone else to this PC".
  • 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to create a new user account.
  • 5. Log in to the new user account and try launching Fortnite.

Section 10: Uninstall and Reinstall Fortnite


If none of the previous steps have resolved the issue, uninstalling and reinstalling Fortnite may be necessary. Here's how to do it:

  • 1. Open the Epic Games Launcher.
  • 2. Go to your library and find Fortnite.
  • 3. Click on the three dots next to the game and select "Uninstall".
  • 4. Once the game is uninstalled, restart your computer.
  • 5. Open the Epic Games Launcher again and reinstall Fortnite.

Section 11: Contact Epic Games Support


If you've reached this point and still haven't fixed the error, it's time to seek personalized assistance from Epic Games Support. They will provide tailored solutions based on your specific situation.



By following these friendly guidelines, you should be able to fix the "Windows Cannot Access The Specified Device" error on Fortnite. Remember to try each step sequentially, as they build upon one another in resolving access problems. Enjoy uninterrupted gameplay and have a great time exploring Fortnite!
Tags: Battle Royale, Fortnite Skins, V-Bucks, Fortnite Challenges, Fortnite Events, Fortnite Map, Fortnite Weapons, Fortnite S
Platform(s): Microsoft Windows PC, macOS,​ PlayStation 4 PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox Series X|S Android, iOS
Genre(s): Survival, battle royale, sandbox
Developer(s): Epic Games
Publisher(s): Epic Games
Engine: Unreal Engine 5
Release date: July 25, 2017
Mode: Co-op, multiplayer
Age rating (PEGI): 12+
Video preview



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