Samsung Galaxy Book owners are facing critical issues following a recent Windows 11 update, causing access problems to the C drive. Users are encountering an “Access denied” message, preventing them from opening files and running certain applications like Microsoft Outlook and Office apps. The affected model numbers include NP750XGJ, NP750XGL, NP754XGJ, NP754XFG, NP754XGK, DM500SGA, DM500TDA, DM500TGA, and DM501SGA.
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue, stating that after installing the February 2026 security update (KB5077181) and subsequent updates, some Samsung devices lose access to the C: drive. Users may experience errors accessing files and launching applications, including Outlook, Office apps, web browsers, and system utilities. The problem seems to occur during routine actions without specific user intervention, hindering tasks like elevating privileges and uninstalling updates due to permission failures.
The root cause is believed to be Samsung’s Galaxy Connect app, which facilitates screen mirroring, file sharing, and data transfers between Galaxy smartphones and Windows PCs. The app has been temporarily removed from the Windows app store to prevent further installations while a solution is developed. Samsung has republished a stable previous version of the app to prevent additional devices from being affected. Recovery options for impacted devices are limited, with ongoing evaluation of remediation strategies in collaboration with Microsoft.
The timeline for a fix remains uncertain. Samsung PC owners are advised to hold off on updating to Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2. Those already on these versions should refrain from making any changes until further updates are available.