Suddenly cannot access PDF files

[Guest]

I suddenly cannot open PDF files that I have saved. I believe this happened after downloading an Adobe Reader update.

When I try to open a PDF file I get this message:

"Windows cannot access the specified device, path or file. You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item."

However, if I get a PDF file as an e-mail attachment, I can open the file from my email. As an aside, to open a PDF file, I sent it to myself as an attachment and then downloaded and opened it.

Also, if I right click on the file and select "Open With" I cannot open with Adobe Acrobat Reader DC but I can open with PDF Vista, whatever that is.

WildBill@1932

9 Jan 2017

Now I'm really in trouble. I got desperate so I uninstalled Adobe Acrobat Reader DC and tried to reload the program from Adobe. It downloads and then goes all the way through the install process and then says Installation failed. "Newer version already installed" And to make matters worse, the PDF Vista program that was on my computer has gone away. At least I was able to use that for a while.

I'm running Windows 7 on my HP 520-1047c

WildBill@1932

10 Jan 2017

Update: Yesterday I managed to download and install Adobe Acrobat Reader XI. I can now access my PDF files. My immediate problem has been solved but I still would like to know what the problem is with Reader DC. I must admit I am disappointed that no oe had any suggestions as to how to resolve my problem

[MeenakshiNegi · Accepted solution]

Hi wildbill1932,

Sorry for the delay in response.

It might be possible that update was not installed properly.

Please  run cleaner tool Download Adobe Reader and Acrobat Cleaner Tool - Adobe Labs and restart your system.

Then try to re-install Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from here: Adobe - Adobe Acrobat Reader DC Distribution

Let us know if issue still persists.

Regards,

Meenakshi

[alz48587012]

I have the same problem. I used the cleanup tool to remove the reader. Then I reinstalled. Same problem. Other files in the same folder are accessible (i.e. Word) but Adobe files get the message "Windows can not access the specified device path or file. You may not have appropriate permissions to access the file". I have no idea what changes or would cause this.

[allens63205823]

Meenakshi's fix worked for me.  You must adhere to his instructions, especially when you re-install Adobe Reader DC with the link he provided, where the drop-down boxes allow you to indicate your specific computer specifications.  His instructions were as follows:

Please  run cleaner tool Download Adobe Reader and Acrobat Cleaner Tool - Adobe Labs and restart your system.

Then try to re-install Adobe Acrobat Reader DC from here: Adobe - Adobe Acrobat Reader DC Distribution

[Lee1200r]

This worked for me but had to use both cleaner tools. the one for 10.x and the one for DC. then reinstall from the DC Distribution site. When i opened the new file it had an update that i applied, then everything works as it should including from File Explorer.

Thanks for the help.

[Ava5C4D]

Right-click the PDF, pick Open With > Choose default program (or Choose another application in Windows 10). Pick Adobe Acrobat Reader DC or Adobe Acrobat DC in the rundown of projects, and afterward do one of the accompanying: (Windows 7 and prior) Select Always utilize the chose program to open this sort of document