Select the Installation failed link in the error message.
Last updated on
Feb. 13, 2026
Learn how to resolve error code 146 "Unable to move the file" during Adobe app installation and update.
Error 146 occurs when the installer cannot move a required file from the temporary download folder to the final installation location. This usually happens due to insufficient file or folder permissions, locked files, or restricted access to the destination folder.
The destination folder is restricted or locked
In the error dialog box, select view error log.
In the error log window, look for the exact path of the file.
Navigate to the file or folder using File Explorer on Windows and Finder on macOS.
Provide read and write permissions to the affected files or folders.
Install the Adobe app again.
Tip
You can also rename the affected file or folder and install the app again.
Creative Cloud desktop app is corrupted or outdated
Remove the Creative Cloud desktop app using the Creative Cloud desktop app uninstaller, then download and install the latest version.
Antivirus or security software is blocking the installation
Your antivirus or security software may prevent the installer from creating or modifying required folders.
Temporarily disable your antivirus or security software that may be blocking file changes.
Try to install the app again.
Re-enable your security software after installation completes.
For product-specific guidance, see:
Note
Links for third-party apps may contain outdated information. For the latest instructions, contact your antivirus or security software vendor.
Residual or incomplete installations are interfering
If you suspect older or incomplete installations may be causing conflicts, run the Creative Cloud Cleaner tool to remove any such prior installations. After cleaning, reinstall the Adobe app.
Installer is unable to create the required directory
Open the error log to find the directory path the installer is trying to create.
Manually create the folder shown in the log.
If the log shows C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Photoshop CC 2015.5, manually create this folder.
Review the Install.log file for full details, if needed.
Install the Adobe app again.
File permissions are not set correctly
The required folders may not have the correct read/write permissions. Verify that file permissions are set appropriately on the folders being created. See Verify file permissions for more information.
Controlled folder access is blocking the installation
Controlled Folder Access protects your documents and files from modification by suspicious applications. To resolve this error, add the affected Creative Cloud app to the list of safe or allowed applications. This applies to Windows 10 and 11.
Quit the affected Creative Cloud app if it's already running.
Go to Start > Settings.
Select Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
Under Virus & threat protection settings, select Manage settings.
Scroll to Controlled folder access and select Manage Controlled Folder Access.
Select Allow an app through Controlled Folder Access.
Select Add an allowed app > Recently blocked apps.
Select the .exe file of the blocked Creative Cloud app and add it.
Your Creative Cloud app is successfully added to the list of allowed applications.
