ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE: 5 Ways to Fix It

If you get the ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE when trying to access certain files, folders, or apps, it typically means there’s an issue with permissions or credentials.

This guide will walk you through some simple steps to fix it and get things working as normal.

How to fix ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE

1. Clear cached credentials

1. Press Windows key + S, type Credential Manager, and select it.
2. Select Windows Credentials.
3. See if there are any credentials related to the application or folder that triggers the error.
4. Click Remove to delete outdated credentials.
5. Try opening the app again and see if the error persits.

2. Adjust permissions

1. Right-click or the file or folder causing the error and select Properties.
2. Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
3. Next to Owner, click Change.
4. Enter your Windows username, click Check Names, then click OK.
5. Try accessing the file or folder again.

Due to mismatched permissions, you can get errors like ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE when trying to access certain files, folders, or apps. Adjusting those permissions should fix it.

3. Repair system files

1. In the search bar, type cmd and select Run as administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter: sfc/scannow.
3. Wait for the scan to complete. This tool automatically searches for and fixes corrupt system files that could be at the root of the error.
4. Restart your computer and see if the error persists.

4. Refresh security settings

1. Press Windows key + S, type cmd and select Run as administrator.
2. Type gpupdate /force and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete.
4. Restart your computer and check if the ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE error persists.

This command helps when recent credential or permission settings don’t take effect immediately. Running it forces them to apply immediately.

5. Restart in Safe Mode

1. Restart your PC from Power options.
2. Press F8 key repeatedly until you get to the Advanced boot menu. (Depending on your PC’s model, the key could be Fn, F12, or something else. If unsure, Google your PC’s manufacturer’s name + Advanced reboot key).
3. Select Startup settings.
4. Select Safe Mode in the boot menu.
5. Wait for your PC to startup.
6. Once it’s started, try accessing the file or app again.
7. Restart your PC again to exit Safe Mode.

Starting in Safe Mode loads only the essential programs and drivers.

This can help you avoid conflicts caused by other software that may be interfering with your access which could help you open the affected app or file without any problems.

Like other error codes such as ERROR_NO_GUID_TRANSLATION, ERROR_GUID_SUBSTITUTION_MADE can get in the way of things and prevent you from using your PC as normal.

The good news is that it is mostly caused by minor issues that you can easily fix in just a few minutes. Let us know which option works best for you.