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ERROR_BAD_PATHNAME 161 (0xA1) [Solved]

Check the path and grant administrative privileges

4 min. read

Updated onNovember 7, 2024

updated onNovember 7, 2024

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For fixing Windows errors, we recommend Fortect:

Fortect will identify and deploy the correct fix for your Windows errors. Follow the 3 easy steps to get rid of Windows errors:

TheERROR_BAD_PATHNAMEWindows system error, with code161 (0xA1), commonly appears when running a code or application using an incorrect path or without administrator permissions. The error message reads,161 (0xA1) The specified path is invalid.

Before you proceed to the solutions, restart the PC, check the code (if running one), and install all pending Windows updates. For most of you, this should fix the system error!

How can I fix ERROR_BAD_PATHNAME?

How can I fix ERROR_BAD_PATHNAME?

1. Check the path in the code

When faced withERROR_BAD_PATHNAME Error Code 161, your primary approach should be to check the listed path. Misplaced slashes are a common issue here.

For instance, users go with\SOFTWARE\Companywhile it should ideally beSOFTWARE\Companyin the path. Upon making this change, the code should no longer throwThe specified path is invalidmessage.

2. Restart File Explorer

3. Run the affected program as an administrator

4. Grant administrative privileges to the affected user

If the current user profile does not have the required privileges to perform an action, you will face theERROR_BAD_PATHNAME161 (0xA1)issue. A quick solution here is tomake the user profile an administrator, granting it all the critical permissions.

5. Modify the Registry

6. Create a new user profile

7. Perform a system restore

If you can’t identify the factors triggering theERROR_BAD_PATHNAME The specified path is invaliderror, a system restore will let you quickly revert any conflicting changes and get things up and running in no time.

Before you leave, discover expert-recommended tips tomake Windows 11 fasterthan ever and enjoy an unparalleled experience!

Which fix worked for you? Share with our readers in the comments section.

More about the topics:System Errors

Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows Hardware Expert

Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.

Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.

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Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows Hardware Expert

Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.