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How to Enable UAC in Windows 8: Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Error 12071

User Account Control (UAC) is an important security feature in Windows 8. It helps prevent unauthorized changes to your computer. Sometimes, disabling UAC can cause errors like Error 12071.

This guide will show you how to enable UAC step-by-step in Windows 8. By doing this, you can fix Error 12071 and improve your system’s security.

The instructions are very simple and detailed, so anyone can follow them easily. You don’t need to be a tech expert to get this done.

Let’s begin by making sure your system is ready for these changes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites Before Enabling UAC

  • Make sure you are logged into an administrator account. UAC settings can only be changed by administrators.
  • Close any running programs to avoid losing work when Windows asks you to restart.
  • It is helpful to create a system restore point before making changes, just in case something goes wrong.
  • Understand that enabling UAC will prompt you for permission whenever an app tries to make changes to your system.

Step 1: Open the Control Panel

The Control Panel is where many Windows settings are managed, including UAC.

  1. Press the Windows key on your keyboard or click the Start button.
  2. Type Control Panel into the search box.
  3. Click on the Control Panel app when it appears in the search results.

Step 2: Access User Account Settings

Once inside the Control Panel, you will find the User Account settings where UAC can be controlled.

  1. In the Control Panel window, look for User Accounts and Family Safety and click on it.
  2. Next, click on User Accounts.
  3. Then select Change User Account Control settings.

Step 3: Adjust the UAC Settings

Here you will see a slider that controls how often Windows notifies you about changes.

  1. Move the slider to the second position from the top, which says “Notify me only when apps try to make changes to my computer (default)”. This is the recommended level for most users.
  2. Click OK to save your changes.
  3. If prompted by UAC itself to approve the change, click Yes.

Why this step is important: Enabling UAC helps prevent unauthorized changes, reducing security risks. Setting it to the default level balances security and convenience.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After changing UAC settings, it is best to restart your PC to ensure the changes take full effect.

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Choose Power and then Restart.

Once your PC restarts, UAC will be active, and Error 12071 should be resolved if it was caused by disabled UAC.

Alternative Method: Enable UAC Using Command Prompt

If you prefer using the command line, you can enable UAC through Command Prompt with these steps:

  1. Press Windows key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Type the following command exactly and press Enter:
reg.exe ADD HKLMSOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionPoliciesSystem /v EnableLUA /t REG_DWORD /d 1 /f

This command enables UAC by modifying the Windows registry. After running it, restart your PC as explained above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Error 12071?

Error 12071 usually occurs when Windows Update or some system process cannot function properly because UAC is turned off.

Can I disable UAC after fixing the error?

It is not recommended. Disabling UAC reduces your computer’s security. Keeping it enabled helps protect against malware and unauthorized changes.

Why does Windows ask for permission when UAC is enabled?

UAC prompts you to confirm actions that require administrative rights to prevent unwanted or harmful changes to your system.

What if I don’t see the UAC slider?

This can happen if your system is managed by a network administrator or group policy. Contact your system admin or check Group Policy Editor for restrictions.

Is it safe to change UAC settings?

Yes, adjusting UAC is safe if you follow the steps carefully. It is always good to create a restore point before making changes.

When Nothing Works

If enabling UAC does not fix Error 12071, try the following:

  • Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter tool available in the Control Panel under Troubleshooting.
  • Check for malware using a trusted antivirus program.
  • Perform a system file check by running sfc /scannow in an elevated Command Prompt.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Error 12071 for more detailed assistance: Microsoft Support.

Conclusion

Enabling User Account Control in Windows 8 is a simple but important step to fix Error 12071 and keep your system secure. By following this guide, you can easily turn UAC back on using the Control Panel or Command Prompt.

Remember to restart your computer after making changes and keep UAC enabled for optimal protection. If problems persist, use the troubleshooting tips or seek official support.

Taking these actions will help maintain your PC’s health and prevent errors related to system permissions.

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