ShellExecute EX Failed, code 21

Question

Anyone familiar with this issue than can suggest a fix?

When I tried to install a program after using a registry cleaner I am getting this error. "ShellExecute Ex Failed; code 21. The device is not ready." How can I resolve this issue? Thanks in advance for any solution, running Windows 8.0.

Answer 1

Hi Steven,

1. Which program are you trying to install?
2. Are you trying to install the program from a disc or was the program downloaded?
3. Which registry cleaner did you use?

I would like to infrom you that using registry cleaners can actually harm your computer. It sometimes deletes some important files which are required by the operating system.

You can try to install the program by running it as an administrator.

To run an application one time with a full administrator access token

1. Locate the program icon or a shortcut in Windows Explorer.
2. Right-click the program icon or shortcut, and then click Run as administrator.
3. When the UAC message is displayed, do one of the following:
   • If you are logged on as a standard user, or if UAC is configured to always require credentials, enter the appropriate administrative credentials, and then click OK.
   • If you are logged on as an administrator and UAC is not configured to always require credentials, click Yes to start the application.

Hope this information is helpful. Please do let us know if you need further assistance with Windows, we’ll be glad to assist you.