Windows 7 bug prevents system shutdown

Posted on Monday, February 10 2020 @ 11:32 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
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Two weeks ago we reported that Microsoft introduced a wallpaper bug with the last patches for Windows 7, which were rolled out on January 14, 2020. The software giant decided to offer a patch for this issue as it had broken functionality that previously worked fine, but now reports are popping up about a more major Windows 7 bug.

ZDNet noticed many users are complaining online about a Windows 7 issue that prevents a system shutdown. Oddly enough, the bug only appeared in the last couple of days:
A "You don’t have permission to shut down this computer." error is preventing Windows 7 from shutting down or restarting their computers according to user reports that came in during the last 24 hours.
Countless reports from Windows 7 users suffering from this issue have hit Reddit, Twitter, and the Microsoft Answers forums.

Until there's a fix from Microsoft (if they even fix it), here's an unofficial fix offered by Reddit users:
  • Step 1: Press Windows+R to open the Run window.
  • Step 2: Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
  • Step 3: In the Group Policy Editor window go to: Computer Configuration > Windows Settings >
  • Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options.
  • Step 4: In the right panel of the Security Options option,search and double-click on "User Account Control: Run all administrators in Admin Approval Mode."
  • Step 5: In the new window, select Enable.
  • Step 6: Reopen the Run window, but this time type "gpupdate /force" and press Enter. This will update all group policies.
  • Step 7: Restart or shut down your system normally.
  • However, if you're still using Windows 7, we highly recommend upgrading to Windows 10 as soon as possible.


    About the Author

    Thomas De Maesschalck

    Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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