Windows 7: Windows cannot access the specified device, path, file

2 of my programs cannot be started they give this error, they were working fine till last 2 days ago when suddenly this error started appearing.

ERROR
Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file. You may not have the appropriate permissions to access the item.



I tried reinstalling them but the same problem, I am the admin of this machine & the UAC remains turned off since 1st install.
I even have tried right click> run as admin it still does not work.

Take ownership of the files.. See Brinks tutorial on this -=> here

Can you check event viewer to see if it tells you which device path or file cannot be accessed?

Applied the reg hack took the ownership but it still shows the same error, event viewer does not mention this application (IDM) in error.

Check the ACL on "C:\Program Files (86)\internet Download Manager\IDMan.exe"
I've just had a look at mine, and all, by default have the same entries & permissions.

SYSTEM - Full Control
Administrators - Full Control
Users - Read & execute / Read

Have you tried installing/running in compatibility mode?

I checked for the permission & yes they are the same as you have mentioned.
SYSTEM - Full Control
Administrators - Full Control
Users - Read & execute / Read

I tried running in compatibility mode XPsp3 but the problem remains as it is.

Could it be the Kaspersky firewall blocking the application to run?

It's a possibility, though not very likely. Disconnect from the internet, turn off Kasper and give it a go.

Are you launching these apps from a shortcut? Try launching the app by manually double clicking the exe file in the program folder.

Tried both ways but it does not work, actually IDM automatically start when it catches a link from the browser that needs to be downloaded via IDM.

Which browser are you using?