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mpasch's avatar
mpasch
Explorer | Level 4
3 years ago

"Couldn't start Dropbox" error after Windows 11 install

After upgrading to windows 11, I cannot start Dropbox. "Couldn't start Dropbox" is the error.  I have checked Security software to make sure it is not blocking it (no sign that it is), reinstalled Dropbox, and rebooted several times.  Nothing has cleared the error.  I can get to Dropbox via the browser.

 

bn.BUILD_KEY: Dropbox
bn.VERSION: 138.4.2392
bn.constants.WINDOWS_SHELL_EXT_VERSION: 51

 

Last error in log is:

 

nucleus_python.SyncEngineError: "Initializing engine |>> Initializing filesystem |>> Attempting to initialize dbx cache directory |>> NtSetBasicInformation syscall: new handle |>> ACCESS_DENIED |>> Permission denied"

  • Hi mpasch, thanks for bringing this to our attention.

    When you reinstalled the Dropbox desktop application, did you perform an advanced re-installation using these steps?

    Keep me updated with any details!
  • Jay's avatar
    Jay
    Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
    Hi mpasch, thanks for bringing this to our attention.

    When you reinstalled the Dropbox desktop application, did you perform an advanced re-installation using these steps?

    Keep me updated with any details!
    • mpasch's avatar
      mpasch
      Explorer | Level 4

      Yes, I followed this process.  It did not solve the problem.

    • mpasch's avatar
      mpasch
      Explorer | Level 4

      Well, in the end, I guess that did do it.  With the prior install, there was no indication of security software blocking Dropbox.  After the advanced re-installation, it appears that Windows was blocking Dropbox and once I accepted the security prompts, I am in business again.

    • Walter's avatar
      Walter
      Icon for Dropbox Staff rankDropbox Staff
      Hey Sahel, sorry to hear about this.

      If you've ensured that this is not caused by an antivirus or a firewall on your computer, did you perform an advanced reinstall since you first noticed this error?

      Note that if you're on the Basic plan with more than 3 devices connected to your account, you'll need to remove any that might be putting you over your account's limit and install the desktop app anew.

       
      • mwaters5's avatar
        mwaters5
        Explorer | Level 3

        I could not update Dropbox it wouldn't let me install the update. I uninstalled, then rebooted, cleared the regsitry etc... (Basically all your suggestions on your help files) and I still cannot install drop box. I am a premium subscriber and I rely on drop box daily this needs to be resolved ASAP 

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