Error 1303: Installer has insufficient privileges to access this directory. C:\...\Intuit

When installing QuickBooks Desktop, the following error prompts:

Error 1303: Installer has insufficient privileges to access this directory. "C:\...\Intuit"

This can occur if either the SYSTEM group or the Everyone group does not have Full Control privileges for the directory mentioned in the error. For more information, refer to this Microsoft article.

You can use the QuickBooks Diagnostic Tool or try the manual steps for fixing the error.

Solution 1: Download and install the QuickBooks Tools Hub

The QuickBooks Tools Hub helps fix common errors. QuickBooks needs to be closed to use the tool hub.

See Fix QuickBooks Desktop install errors to run and use the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool.

Note: The speed of the repair depends on your internet speed and your computer's performance.

Solution 2: Manually resolve the issue

Use this solution if the tool did not resolve the issue or if you prefer manual troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Edit the permissions for the appropriate folders

Manually change permissions to Full Control for the SYSTEM and Everyone groups for the folder C:\Documents and Settings\All Users.

1. On your keyboard, press Windows + R to open the Run window.
2. In the Open field, enter the path C:\ProgramData\COMMON FILES\ and click OK. A window opens and displays the folder contents.
3. In the Folder window, click Organize then choose Properties.
   Windows 10: Select Properties on the top ribbon of folder window.
4. In the Properties window, go to the Security tab.
5. Click the Advanced button.
6. Click the Edit button.
7. Scroll down the list of Permission entries and double-click the SYSTEM user.
8. Select the checkbox for the Full Control row in the Allow column and click OK.
9. Repeat steps a to h with the Everyone group (if it exists).
10. Check the checkbox labeled Replace all existing inheritable permissions on all descendants with inheritable permissions from this object.
11. Click OK in both the Advanced Security Settings window and again in the COMMON FILES Properties window.
12. Install QuickBooks Desktop.

Step 2: Turn off Simple File Sharing

1. On your keyboard, press Windows + R to open the Run window.
2. Copy and paste RunDll32.exe shell32.dll,Options_RunDLL 0 and press Enter.
3. On the View tab, scroll to the bottom of the Advanced Settings list.
4. Clear the Use simple file sharing (recommended) checkbox.
5. Select OK and proceed with QuickBooks Desktop installation.