Selected users of Windows 11 have recently encountered a significant issue that has rendered their main C: drive inaccessible. This troubling software bug, which has been acknowledged by Microsoft, is primarily affecting Samsung laptops. The error message displayed reads, “C: is not accessible – Access denied,” and it appears to have emerged following the February 2026 security update (KB5077181).
Details of the Bug
Reports indicate that the problem predominantly impacts users of the latest Windows 11 versions, specifically 24H2 and 25H2. Affected regions include Brazil, Portugal, Korea, and India. The situation has become quite dire for those experiencing the bug, as it hampers their ability to access files, launch applications, or perform essential administrative tasks, effectively crippling their systems.
While Microsoft is actively investigating the issue and working on a resolution, they have suggested that the Samsung Share app may be a contributing factor, though this has yet to be confirmed. For those who have already installed the problematic update, there is a potential workaround available through the Settings > Windows Update menu, where users can roll back to a previous version. Alternatively, if you have not yet installed the February 2026 update, it may be wise to pause the update process for the time being.
User Experiences and Workarounds
In the face of this inconvenience, resourceful users on platforms like Reddit have proposed various workarounds, including changing the ownership of the C: drive. While some have reported success with these methods, they come with inherent risks, and users are advised to proceed with caution if they choose to attempt these fixes.
As the situation unfolds, many will be looking to Microsoft for a timely resolution to restore normal functionality to their devices. Until then, affected users are encouraged to explore the available options while remaining vigilant about the potential risks involved in any workaround attempts.
