How to Fix Adobe Error error-code-16 — Configuration Error 16 [2026]

Adobe Error error-code-16: Configuration Error 16

This error typically occurs when missing or incorrect permissions on adobe slstore folder. Below you'll find 5 proven fixes to resolve it.

What Causes Adobe Error error-code-16?

Adobe error error-code-16 (Configuration Error 16) can be triggered by several issues:

Missing or incorrect permissions on Adobe SLStore folder
Missing or incorrect permissions on Adobe PCD folder
Corrupted Adobe OOBE (Out Of Box Experience) folder
Antivirus locking Adobe licensing files
Incomplete previous Adobe installation or update

How to Fix Adobe Error error-code-16 — Step by Step

Fix SLStore and PCD folder permissions

Right-click C:\ProgramData\Adobe\SLStore > Properties > Security > Advanced > set owner to Administrators group > check Replace all child object permission entries. Grant Administrators and SYSTEM full control. Repeat for C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Adobe\Adobe PCD.

Delete the OOBE folder

Close all Adobe apps. Navigate to C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Adobe\OOBE and delete the folder. Adobe will recreate it with correct settings on next launch.

Reinstall Adobe Creative Cloud

Use the Adobe Creative Cloud Cleaner Tool to fully remove, then reinstall from creativecloud.adobe.com. This rebuilds all configuration folders with correct permissions.

Run Adobe app as Administrator

Right-click Photoshop, Illustrator, or other Adobe app > Run as administrator. This bypasses permission issues while you work on a permanent fix.

Repair via Creative Cloud Desktop

Open Creative Cloud Desktop app > click the three-dot menu next to the affected app > Repair. This resets configuration files without a full reinstall.

Still Getting Error error-code-16?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adobe Configuration Error 16?

Adobe cannot access its licensing files because the SLStore or Adobe PCD folder has wrong permissions. This prevents Adobe from verifying your subscription.

Why did this happen after a Windows Update?

Some Windows Updates reset folder permissions. The SLStore and PCD folders require specific permissions that may get overwritten during major updates.

Will fixing permissions affect my Adobe files?

No. Your Photoshop documents, Premiere projects, and other creative files are stored in your user Documents folder and are unaffected.

Do I need an Adobe subscription to fix this?

No. The fix involves Windows folder permissions and does not require changes to your Adobe account.

Can I prevent this from recurring?

After fixing permissions, exclude the SLStore and Adobe PCD folders from antivirus scanning. Antivirus products sometimes reset permissions on these folders.

How to Fix Adobe Error error-code-16 — Configuration Error 16