FINALLY! Fix Error 0x800701b1 and Transfer Files on Your PC

Having trouble transferring files to your external hard drive or USB stick?  If you’ve seen the cryptic error message “0x800701b1” pop up, you’re not alone. This frustrating error can block you from copying or moving your important stuff. Don’t Worry:

Here are some quick steps you can follow to fix the 0x800701b1 error in Windows 10 and windows 11.  

Read the blog further, where we explain what the 0x800701b1 error means and share detailed step-by-step methods to resolve this issue.

Whether it’s a problem with your network settings, security software issue, file transfer or something else, we’ll cover multiple troubleshooting tips to get rid of the 0x800701b1 error once and for all.   

What is error 0x800701b1 means ?

When you try to transfer files in Windows 10 or Windows 11 and encounter error message 0x800701b1, it can be a frustrating roadblock. This error code indicates a problem with the destination drive and the decoded message translates to: “A device that does not exist was specified.”

In simpler terms, your computer is trying to access a drive that it can’t find or use for some reason.

Below is a breakdown of why this error may occur in Windows 10 and Windows 11:

• Disconnected or faulty drive: The most common reason for file transfer issues is a problem with the destination device. This could be a loose connection, a faulty cable, or a malfunctioning USB flash drive itself.

• USB port issues: Additionally, the USB port you are using may be faulty or not providing enough power for the drive to function properly. Consider checking the power supply unit to ensure it is providing adequate power and to rule out any insufficient power supply issues.

• Driver problems: Moreover, outdated or corrupt drivers for your disk drives can cause communication problems between your computer and the external device.

• File system errors: Furthermore, sometimes errors on the drive itself, such as corrupted file systems, can prevent Windows from recognizing it correctly.

• Permissions issues: In rare cases, security settings on the drive or your user account may be blocking the transfer process.

Additional factors to consider

• Large Files: Besides that, if you are transferring very large files, you may be exceeding the capabilities of a specific drive or file system (such as FAT32).

• New user account: Finally, corrupted user profiles can sometimes cause permissions issues, so trying a new account can help.

By understanding the reasons for error 0x800701b1 and other unexpected errors in Windows 10 and Windows 11, you can choose the most suitable troubleshooting steps to fix them and transfer your files smoothly.

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How to fix error 0x800701b1 ?

Dealing with the error code 0x800701b1 on your Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer can be frustrating. In However, in this section we will walk you through simple, step-by-step solutions to fix this issue and get your device.

Basic Checks (Quick and Easy)

Reconnect and Try Another Port

While it may seem like a basic step, loose connections or faulty USB ports can be a culprit for this error.

For any external device in the disk drives category, like a USB flash drive or external hard drive, start by disconnecting it, waiting a few seconds, and then firmly reconnecting it to a different USB port on your computer.

Additionally, disconnect any unnecessary peripherals to ensure they are not interfering with the connection, and check for a problematic drive that might be causing issues.

Rescan Disks

Alternatively, Windows has a built-in tool called Disk Management that can help refresh the system’s recognition of your drives. Here’s how to use it:

• Firstly, press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.

• Secondly, type diskmgmt.msc and press Enter.

• Then, in the Disk Management window, locate your drive in the list.

• Next, right-click on the drive and select Rescan Disks.

Driver Issues

Update Drivers

Communication problems can also arise due to outdated or corrupted drivers for the storage device (target disk) you’re trying to access. In such cases, a simple driver update for your disk drives can often resolve the error.

• Initially, press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.

• After that, expand the Disk drives section.

• Subsequently, right-click on your drive and select Update driver.

• Them, choose Search automatically for updated driver software.

• Finally, Windows will search online and install the latest driver if available.

Check for File System Errors

In addition, file system errors on the destination drive can prevent Windows from accessing it properly. Here’s how to check and fix them:

• First, open File Explorer.

• Next, right-click on your drive and select Properties.

• Then, go to the Tools tab.

• After that, under Error checking, click Check.

• Furthermore, choose both options: Automatically fix file system errors and Scan for and attempt to recover bad sectors.

• Finally, click Start to begin the scan. This process might take some time depending on the size of your drive.

Uninstall and Reinstall Disk Driver

• To begin with, open Device Manager (press Windows key + R, type “devmgmt.msc”, and press Enter).

• Next, expand “Disk drives”.

• Then, right-click on your specific hard drive (identify it by its name or size).

• After that, select “Uninstall device”.

• Furthermore ,check the box next to “Delete the driver software for this device” (only if you’re comfortable, otherwise uncheck).

• Next, click “Uninstall”.

• Finally, restart your computer. Windows will automatically reinstall a generic driver for your disk, which might resolve the issue.

System Restore (if applicable)

• Initially, if the error started recently, System Restore can revert your system settings to a point before the issue occurred. This might also reinstall a previous driver version.

• After that, search for “Create a restore point” and create a new restore point if needed (in case this attempt doesn’t work).

• Next, search for “System Restore”.

• In last, choose a restore point before the error started and follow the restore process.

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Advanced Fixes

Adjust Security Settings

• In rare cases, security settings on the drive or your user account might be blocking the transfer. This fix involves modifying permissions and requires some technical knowledge. If you’re comfortable with it, follow below mentioned steps:

Access Drive Properties:

• To begin with, in File Explorer, navigate to your USB drive.

• Next, right-click on the drive and select “Properties”.

Security Tab:

• Then, click on the “Security” tab.

Advanced Security Settings:

• After that, click the “Advanced” button.

Change Owner (if needed):

• Furthermore, this step might be necessary if you don’t have full control over the drive. Click “Change” next to “Owner”.

• Next, enter your username and click “OK”. Enable “Replace owner on subcontainers and objects” to inherit permissions throughout the drive structure (proceed with caution if unsure).

Edit Permissions:

• Then, click on your user account under “Group or user names”.

• After that, ensure “Full control” is checked under “Allow” for your user account.

Apply Permissions Inherently (Optional but Recommended):

• Additionally, Select “Replace all child object permissions” to ensure all files and folders within the drive inherit the permissions you set for this object.

Apply and OK:

• Finally, click “Apply” and then “OK” on all open windows to confirm the changes.

Note: Search online for specific guides related to your Windows version for more detailed instructions. Phrases like “Windows 10 change USB drive security settings” or “Windows 11 adjust USB devices permissions” can help you find resources.

Create a New User Account

• Corrupted user profiles can sometimes cause permission issues. Creating a new Windows user account can help bypass these restrictions.  

Using Settings

• To begin, press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.

• Next, click on “Accounts” from the left-hand pane.

• Then, select “Family & other users” on the right.

• After that, click on “Add account” under the heading “Add another user”.

• Since you’re creating a new local account, click on “I don’t have this person’s sign-in information”.

• The next step lets you create a local user. Click “Add a user without a Microsoft account” to proceed.

• Then, enter a desired username and password for the new account.

• Additionally, you can set up security questions for password recovery here.

• Finally, click “Next” and then “Finish” to create the new user account.

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Additional Considerations

Large Files

• If you’re transferring very large files, consider splitting them into smaller chunks to improve the transfer rate. Some file systems, like FAT32, have limitations on file size. This approach can also help prevent issues with corrupt data files or corrupt system files during file operations.

• Additionally, using effective file recovery software and ensuring essential system files, including DLL files, are intact can aid in managing corrupt files. Backup files regularly to avoid losing destination files, and choose a suitable drive for file storage and file system compatibility.

Hardware Issues

• none of the above solutions work, there’s a possibility the external hardware device itself might be experiencing hardware problems. In that case, consult the drive’s manufacturer for warranty options or consider a data recovery specialist to recover any important files.

• Additionally, you can use Command Prompt to type list disk and access advanced options to check for drive issues. Modifying security permissions might also help resolve the error. You can also check this for more information to fix the error 0x800701b1.

Remember

• First, try the solutions in the order listed, starting with the basic checks.

• Then, try the next solution if this one doesn’t resolve the issue.

• Finally, back up important data before attempting any advanced fixes.   

Conclusion  

We hope these troubleshooting steps have helped you resolve the frustrating 0x800701b1 error and get your files transferring smoothly again.

However, remember, the key is to start with the basic checks and work your way through the solutions methodically.

Additionally, if you’re still having issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional support or consult the manufacturer’s resources.

Furthermore, with a little patience and the right approach, you can overcome this error and keep your data moving seamlessly between devices. Ultimately, perseverance is crucial when troubleshooting technical problems.

Reference:

Frequently Asked Question’s (FAQ’s)