Windows blocked NeuralVault from making this folder

In the Beta build, setting up or moving your vault can stop with "Windows blocked NeuralVault from making this folder" (NV-VAULT-019), usually because Windows Security’s Controlled folder access is on; nothing was changed.

Last checked against the app on · View as Markdown

Steps

  1. Read the notice. It names the folder and says nothing was changed.
  2. Fix 1: allow NeuralVault. Open Windows Security, then Virus and threat protection.
  3. Under Ransomware protection, choose Manage ransomware protection.
  4. Choose Allow an app through Controlled folder access, then Add an allowed app.
  5. Pick NeuralVault. The notice shows the exact path of this copy of NeuralVault under the steps, so you can find it. Then come back to the notice and press "Try again".
  6. Fix 2: skip Windows Security. Press "Use a folder Windows does not protect". NeuralVault names a folder directly inside your own user folder and asks you to confirm it before it does anything. Nothing is moved.
  7. Or press Browse and choose any folder outside Documents, Desktop and Pictures.
  8. If you use other security software, add NeuralVault to its allowed list instead.

How to tell it worked

After "Try again" or the other folder, setup finishes and the vault opens.

If it does not work

You do not see one of the buttons in Windows Security.
The names can differ a little between Windows builds. Look for the same words nearby.
Windows showed an "Unauthorized changes blocked" message.
Open Protection history in Windows Security, find the entry for NeuralVault and choose Allow on device.
It still fails.
Press "Copy error details" on the notice and send us the text. It holds the folder and the system’s own message.