“Windows denied access”

Why Windows blocks the result

NativeActions saves results beside the original file. If Windows does not allow writing in that folder, the operation stops with “Windows denied access. Choose a writable local folder.” Your original file is not changed.

Common causes are system folders such as Program Files, read-only network or USB drives, folders owned by another user, and Windows Security’s Controlled folder access.

Allow NativeActions through ransomware protection

1. Open Windows Security and choose Virus & threat protection.
2. Under Ransomware protection, choose Manage ransomware protection.
3. If Controlled folder access is on, choose Allow an app through Controlled folder access, then Add an allowed app and select NativeActions from the recently blocked apps.
4. Run the action again.

Or work on a copy

Copy the file to a folder you own, such as a new folder in Downloads, and run the action there. This also helps with files on read-only drives.