Applies to: Windows
Topic: Launcher and Azimuth
The launcher needs to write into your Azimuth folder: it installs the FH2MP shim into fh2-mods, updates Extra Options and copies saves. When Windows doesn't allow it, you may see:
•could not install the shim ... the folder may be protected
•We need permission to copy your save.
•Could not copy your save ... [WinError 5] Access is denied
Close everything first
A running azimuth.exe locks its files.
1. Close the game and every Azimuth window.
2. Open Task Manager and end any azimuth.exe that's still there.
3. Press PLAY again.
If that doesn't help, restart Windows and try before opening Azimuth.
Move the folders out of protected places
These places cause permission problems:
•C:\Program Files and C:\Program Files (x86)
•OneDrive folders (Desktop and Documents are often in OneDrive)
•Downloads
Move Azimuth and the game to a plain folder such as C:\Games\Azimuth and C:\Games\ForzaHorizon2. Then point Azimuth and the launcher at the new places (Run setup wizard in the launcher).
Mods that write their own files, such as Achievements, also misbehave when the game sits in Program Files.
Use administrator rights once
When the launcher asks Try again with administrator access?, choose Retry as administrator. It backs up your saves first.
Starting the launcher as administrator once also works. Don't make a habit of running the game as administrator: it can cause more problems than it fixes.
Antivirus
If files disappear right after they were installed, see [Windows Security deletes or flags mods](/tutorials/windows-defender-false-positives-fh2-mods-azimuth).