How to Fix SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied Error

Summary: Here, we present another one of the most common and frustrating errors, i.e., SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied. It generally occurs when the system doesn’t have access to enough resources to operate. Thus, a halt occurs in the SQL operations. So, understand this error, its causes, and methods to fix it to keep the SQL Server in a healthy state. In this blog, we will go through these and also learn about a DatabaseFileRecovery SQL Database Recovery Tool for best results. Download Now Purchase Now

What Causes Operating System Error 5 in SQL Server?

The major reason for the occurrence of this error is when SQL has inadequate permissions and cannot access files. Other scenarios when this access denied error usually arises are:

  • Incorrect backup file path usage during backup restoration.
  • Insufficient read/write permissions for the backup file.
  • Damaged, corrupted, incompatible, or inaccessible backup files.
  • Does not have administrator privileges or permissions for SSMS.

It is necessary to fix this error to keep data intact and operate the SQL server smoothly. If it is left unresolved, then you may have to face performance degradation and data loss issues.

Methods to Fix SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied Error

Like the Microsoft SQL Server Error 18456, this error 5 also stops users from working efficiently. There are a few manual steps that you can follow to resolve this error. Alternatively, there is a professional tool that can handle this error and recover your backup file. Explore the steps below and execute them appropriately to achieve successful results. 

Resolve SQL Server Error Code 5 Manually

As stated above, the error majorly occurs due to the issues with backup files. What you can do is check that the correct backup file is selected. Also, sometimes, only changing the filename or location does the work. If this doesn’t help, then follow the steps given below:

  1. First, ensure the backup file and folder path are correct and accessible from the SQL Server.
  2. Next, verify and grant security permissions:
  • Browse the folder where your backup file is saved, right-click it, and select Properties.
  • Further, check that the user trying to fix the backup file has relevant access permissions.
  • If not, click on Edit >> Add under the Security permissions.
  • Use object names and check names for verification.
  • Furthermore, click Advance to search for the name of the user and continue.
  • Later, adjust the needed settings and configurations.
  • In the end, ensure you grant the Modify permission. Once done, hit OK.
  1. Now, SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied may also occur if SSMS is not run with administrator privileges. So, simply go to Windows Search and type SSMS. Right-click it and press Run as Administrator.
  • Check and Grant Database Instance Permissions:

The service account for the SQL Server must have the permissions to read, write, attach, and detach the database. If not, this may result in Error 5 in the SQL DB.

  • To check for the needed permissions, run the given command:

SELECT nameof service, account_service

FROM sys.dm_server_services;

  • Once you get the service name and account details, grant the required permissions.
  • Additionally, add the Administrators group to security permissions. (It is needed for data directories saved in SSMS.)
  1. Repair your database with the DBCC CHECKDB (REPAIR_ALLOW_DATA_LOSS) command. Also, repair the backup files.

Shortfalls of the Manual Method

Though the above-given free ways may help you to resolve the operating system error 5 to an extent. It has some cons mentioned here:

  • Administrator privileges are needed to modify permissions for service accounts and folders.
  • It is a time-consuming process and is not suitable for issues with complex permissions.
  • Incorrect modification of permissions can lead to even bigger issues and security risks.

Professionally Troubleshoot SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied 

If you are facing issues in MDF and NDF files due to damage or corruption and you cannot access them,. Then, use the DatabaseFileRecovery SQL Database Recovery Tool. It is the ultimate solution to fix your issue and grants access to your files. Using this tool, recover the files and save them in a new database without difficulties. Also, you can choose to store them on your system as scripts after recovering with two modes. Moreover, it guarantees complete security and 100% accuracy and keeps the data intact. 

Steps to Resolve Operating System Error 5 and Recover File

  1. Launch the SQL Server Database Recovery Tool after download and hit Open.
  2. Add the MDF file to the tool and select a recovery mode. Check other options and click OK.
  3. Further, preview the data in the panel from the tree format and select the tables to restore.
  4. Press Save SQL Data from the standard bar and choose the Database or Scripts option.
  5. Afterward, select the optional filters and ensure the saving location accordingly.
  6. At last, click OK to recover the file and resolve the issue and DB error.

Conclusion

To conclude, SQL Server Error 5 Access Denied is a critical issue. It results in file inaccessibility and interrupts regular operations. Thus, it is necessary to fix it to prevent disruptions and ensure a smooth flow. The manual method needs administrator privileges and technical knowledge and has other limitations. On the other hand, a professional tool can help recover the file and data without any access issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1 What is access denied 5 in SQL Server?

Ans. SQL Server error code 5 occurs when the SQL Server doesn’t have permission to perform the operations. It can occur for any reason, the major one being issues related to the backup or database files.

Q.2 How to fix system error 5 access denied?

Ans: Follow the steps below to fix error 5 access denied issue due to damaged files:
1. Start the SQL Database Repair Tool and click Open. Add the MDF files.
2. Then, select Standard or Advanced recovery and check options >> press OK.
3. Further, preview data, select tables for restoration, and tap Save SQL Data.
4. Choose a destination as per your choice and pick filters. Finally, click OK.

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