Borderlands 4 Failed to Save Settings Fix Guide
Running into the “failed to save settings” error in Borderlands 4 can be frustrating, especially when it blocks you from adjusting graphics or gameplay options. The problem usually comes from Windows permissions, antivirus restrictions, or corrupted files. Thankfully, there are several proven fixes that will get you back to playing without reinstalling the whole game.
How to Fix Borderlands 4 Failed to Save Settings
The most reliable fixes for this error are verifying your game files, adjusting your antivirus or firewall, and running the game as an administrator. In many cases, the issue comes down to Borderlands 4 not having the proper permissions to write changes.
Verify Game Files
On Steam:
Right-click Borderlands 4 in your Library
Select Properties → Installed Files
Click “Verify integrity of game files”
On Epic Games Store:
Hover over Borderlands 4 in your Library
Click the three dots → Manage
Select “Verify”
If any missing or corrupted files are detected, they’ll be re-downloaded automatically. Launch the game again to test if settings now save correctly.
Allow Borderlands 4 Through Antivirus and Firewall
Windows Security:
Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security
Go to Virus & threat protection → Manage ransomware protection
Select “Allow an app through Controlled folder access”
Add both Borderlands4.exe files (main .exe and the one in Game → Binaries → Win64)
Windows Defender Firewall:
Open Control Panel → System and Security → Windows Defender Firewall
Select “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall”
Click “Change settings” and add both game .exe files
Third-Party Antivirus:
If you use Avast, Norton, Bitdefender, or similar, add both Borderlands 4 executables to the exclusions/allowed apps list.
Run Borderlands 4 as Administrator
One-time method:
Go to your Borderlands 4 install folder
Right-click Borderlands4.exe → Run as administrator
Permanent method:
Right-click Borderlands4.exe → Properties
Open the Compatibility tab
Check “Run this program as an administrator” → Apply
This ensures the game has full permissions to save your settings every time you launch it.
Final Blurb
Borderlands 4’s “failed to save settings” error usually comes down to simple permission issues. By verifying files, whitelisting the game in your antivirus and firewall, and running it as administrator, you can resolve the problem quickly. Once fixed, your settings will save properly and you can focus on looting, farming, and blasting through Kairos.
FAQ
Why does Borderlands 4 say failed to save settings?
It happens when the game doesn’t have permission to write changes, often due to Windows Controlled Folder Access, firewall blocks, or missing files.
Do I need to add both .exe files?
Yes, always whitelist both the main Borderlands4.exe and the one inside Game → Binaries → Win64.
Can I just reinstall the game to fix it?
You can, but verifying the files is faster and usually resolves the issue without a full reinstall.
Does this happen on console?
No, the error is exclusive to PC versions of Borderlands 4.
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