The installation folder path is too long, nested too deep, or placed in a restricted directory, preventing the installer from unpacking and saving the necessary files.Your system lacks the necessary permissions, blocking the installer from accessing or modifying the installation folder. This often occurs due to admin restrictions or security settings.
This error is especially common on systems with:
Strict user account controls (e.g., corporate or school PCs),Modified default installation locations, orInstallers running from external/synced folders (e.g., OneDrive or network drives).
Now, let’s go through the actual fixes to resolve this issue and successfully install your Adobe software.
1. Rename the Setup Folder and Use a Simple Installation Path
Adobe installers are sensitive to folder structure and naming. If the setup folder contains special characters or is buried too deep in the directory tree, the installation may fail. To avoid this, rename the folder using only basic alphanumeric characters and place it in a root-level location, such as the Desktop or directly on the C: drive. Avoid launching the setup from synced or cloud directories like OneDrive, as these can also cause access issues.
2. Compress and Re-extract the Setup Folder
Sometimes, setup files inherit restrictive permissions from their download location—especially if stored in synced folders (like OneDrive), external drives, or directories locked by system policies. A simple fix is to compress the entire setup folder into a ZIP file and extract it to a neutral location (e.g., your desktop). This resets file permissions and removes hidden restrictions that may block installation. Note: You need WinRAR for this method.
3. Run Adobe Setup as Administrator
If the installer lacks administrator permissions, it may fail to save files to restricted folders, such as Program Files. Running the setup as an administrator grants it the necessary access for a successful installation. Simply right-click the Adobe Setup file and select Run as administrator. If the issue persists, try reinstalling the Creative Cloud App if you use it to install Adobe software.
