How to fix ERROR_ACCESS_DISABLED_NO_SAFER_UI_BY_POLICY BSoD error in Windows 11/10

What is ERROR_ACCESS_DISABLED_NO_SAFER_UI_BY_POLICY error

ERROR_ACCESS_DISABLED_NO_SAFER_UI_BY_POLICY is a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) error that typically occurs in Windows 10 and 11 systems when administrative policies restrict access to certain apps or system features. This error is associated with the error code 786 (0x312) and often appears with the message: “Access to %1 has been restricted by your Administrator by policy rule %2”. It generally indicates that Windows Defender, Group Policy settings, or other local policies are preventing a user or application from executing specific actions. In most cases, this problem is triggered when an app tries to launch, but system policies block it due to security concerns. It can also occur after a Windows Update or a change in system security settings. Users might encounter this error when attempting to open system utilities, launch third-party software, or access administrative tools. The restriction is typically enforced through Group Policy Editor or Local Security Policy, often managed in enterprise environments. However, even personal users may face this if certain settings are misconfigured. It can also be related to SmartScreen or virus protection settings blocking perceived threats. Because of its system-wide implications, resolving this error usually requires administrative privileges. Thankfully, a series of steps involving policy review, security settings, registry edits, and system restore can help eliminate the issue effectively.

Step-by-step instructions to fix ERROR_ACCESS_DISABLED_NO_SAFER_UI_BY_POLICY error

1. Check the Group Policy Settings

Group Policy settings often restrict app access. Review and reset the policies to default.

1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to User Configuration > Administrative Templates > System.
3. Double-click Don’t run specified Windows applications or Run only specified Windows applications.
4. In the Properties window, select Not Configured.
5. Click Apply and then OK.

2. Change the Local Security Policy

Security policies may block access to programs. Adjust settings in the Local Security Policy editor.

1. Press Windows + R, type secpol.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Go to Advanced Audit Policy Configuration > System Audit Policies – Local Group Policy Object.
3. Open Logon/Logoff and examine the configured rules.
4. Reset any restrictive settings and click Apply and OK.

3. Modify the Virus & Threat Protection Settings

Windows Defender might be blocking the application. You can exclude it manually.

1. Press Windows key, type Windows Security, and open it.
2. Click Virus & threat protection > Protection history.
3. Find the blocked application and click Allow.
4. Go back and click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings.
5. Scroll down to Exclusions and click Add or remove exclusions.
6. Click Add an exclusion > File, then select the app to allow.

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4. Edit the App & Browser Control Settings

SmartScreen or reputation-based protection may be blocking the app. Disable it temporarily to test.

1. Open Windows Security from Start Menu.
2. Click App & browser control.
3. Choose Reputation-based protection settings.
4. Toggle off Check apps and files.
5. Confirm changes via UAC prompt if needed.

5. Edit the Registry Entries

Some registry entries might be enforcing restrictions. Editing them can help regain access.

1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
2. Click Yes on the UAC prompt.
3. In Registry Editor, go to File > Export to back up your registry.
4. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Policies\System.
5. Look for entries like DisableTaskMgr, DisallowRun, or NoControlPanel.
6. Double-click and set their Value data to 0 or delete them if unnecessary.
7. Click OK and restart your PC.

6. Perform a System Restore

If the error started recently, restoring your system to a previous state might solve the issue.

1. Press Windows key, search for Control Panel, and open it.
2. Click View by and choose Large icons, then go to Recovery.
3. Click Open System Restore.
4. Select Choose a different restore point and click Next.
5. Pick a restore point created before the error started.
6. Click Next and then Finish to begin restoration.