8 Simple Ways to Fix “Error 0x800701b1” in Windows

If you use a Windows device, you might have run into Error 0x800701B1 at some point. This error can interrupt your work.

In this article, we will look into the details of Windows Error and share solutions to fix it. Let’s dive in.

What is “Error 0x800701b1”?

The error message “Error Code 0x800701b1” can occur in Windows 10 and 11 when you are trying to copy or paste files and folders.

The error message “A device which does not exist was specified” suggests that Windows is encountering issues accessing the drive during data transfer attempts.

This could be due to either Windows being unable to recognize the drive, or the drive not functioning properly. Alternatively, you might encounter this error if you’re attempting to install Windows on a hard drive through a USB connection.

What is the Cause of “Error 0x800701b1” in Windows?

Here are some of the common causes of the Windows Error.

1. Corrupted or Missing System Files: Essential system files or Dynamic Link Library (DLL) files may become corrupted or go missing, leading to this error.
2. Unrecognized or Unaccessible Drive: The computer might be unable to recognize or access the drive you are trying to transfer data to or from.
3. Faulty or Disconnected Hardware: If there’s a problem with the hardware, like a faulty hard drive or a disconnected one, this error may occur.
4. Outdated Drivers: Outdated drivers might cause the system to have trouble communicating with the hardware, triggering this error.
5. Improper Windows Installation: If there’s an issue while installing Windows, especially on a hard drive connected via USB, this error might pop up.

Note: Make sure to keep your backup of your files before fixing the Windows Error.

How to Fix “Error 0x800701b1” in Windows?

Mentioned down below are ways through which you can fix the Windows error. Follow it in a step-by-step process.

1. Update Your System

• Ensure your system is updated to the latest version.
• Check for any pending updates in the Windows Update section and install them.

• Restart your computer after the updates are installed.

• Confirm that your drivers are up to date, especially the drivers for your hard drive and other storage devices.
• If possible, update the firmware of your hard drive or SSD.

2. Run the Windows Troubleshooter

• Type “Troubleshoot” in the Windows search bar and select “Troubleshoot settings”.
• Select “Windows Update” and then “Run the troubleshooter”.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to fix any detected issues.
• You can also run the “Hardware and Devices” troubleshooter in the same troubleshooting menu.
• Check the “Additional troubleshooters” section for other relevant troubleshooting options.

3. Check Disk for Errors:

• Open a Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type “chkdsk /f” and press Enter. (You might need to restart your computer to allow chkdsk to check and repair the disk.)
• Check for any bad sectors on your hard drive.

• Run a disk cleanup to remove any unwanted files and free up space.
• Ensure that your hard drive or SSD has sufficient free space.

4. Perform a Clean Boot:

• Type “msconfig” in the Windows search bar and press Enter.
• In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services”, and click “Disable all”.

• Go to the Startup tab, click “Open Task Manager”, turn off all startup items, and restart your computer.

• After restarting, check if the error persists.
• If the error is resolved, enable the startup items one by one to identify the problematic service or application.

5. Reset Windows Update Components:

• Open a Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:arduinoCopy code.
• net stop wuauserv.
• net stop cryptSvc.
• net stop bits.
• net stop msiserver.

• ren C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old.
• ren C:\Windows\System32\catroot2 catroot2.old.

• Restart your computer.
• Check the Windows Update settings and ensure that updates are being downloaded and installed properly.
• Manually reset the Windows Update components if needed by following the detailed instructions available on Microsoft’s official website.

6. Change the Security Options for the USB Drive:

• Connect your USB drive to your computer.
• Right-click on the USB drive icon in My Computer or This PC, and select Properties.
• Go to the Security tab and click the Edit button.
• Check the box for “Full control” in the Allow column for your user account.
• Click Apply and OK to save the changes.

• Eject and reconnect the USB drive to check if the error is resolved.
• If the error persists, try changing the ownership of the USB drive to your user account.

7. Check File System Errors:

• Open a Command Prompt as an administrator.
• Type “sfc /scannow” and press Enter to check for and fix file system errors.
• If prompted, insert your Windows installation disc or provide the necessary files.
• Allow the scan to complete and follow any on-screen instructions to fix detected issues.

• You can also use a third-party disk checking and repair tool to check for file system errors.
• Perform a disk defragmentation to reorganize files and check for errors.

How to Prevent “Error 0x800701b1” in Future?

There are multiple ways to prevent the Windows error in future. Mentioned below are some of them.

1. Regular Backups: Regularly back up your data to an external hard drive or a cloud service to ensure you have copies of your important files.
2. Use Anti-virus Software: Keep your anti-virus software updated to avoid issues like Xbox error code 0x800701b1, which can happen due to malware or other cyber threats.
3. Regular System Updates: Keep your operating system and all software updated to the latest versions to fix bugs and improve security.
4. Avoid Suspicious Websites/Emails: Stay away from suspicious websites and emails to avoid phishing scams and malware infections.
5. Use Strong Passwords: Create Strong Passwords: Make strong passwords and change them often to keep your accounts safe. It can help avoid issues like Xbox error code 0x800701b1.

Conclusion

The error message “Error 0x800701b1” can be frustrating for Windows 10 users.

This article shared a general overview of the error, its causes, and ways to fix it. In addition to it, you can see the preventive measures to avoid the error in future.

If you can still see the error, kindly leave a message in message box given below. We will get back to you quickly.

Error 0x800701b1 in Windows 10 FAQs

What Causes Error 0x800701b1 in Windows 10?

This error often comes up when moving files between your computer and an external hard drive. It could be due to a faulty USB port, not enough power, disk issues, or operating system problems.

How Can I Fix Error 0x800701b1 in Windows 10?

You can use a different USB port, reconnect your external hard drive to a USB 3.0 port, update the disk drive’s driver, check the disks in Disk Management, and do a disk scan to check for errors.

Can Windows 10 Error Cause Data Loss?

Yes, this error can cause data loss, especially if there are disk problems.

How Can I Prevent Windows Error?

Make sure your external hard drive is connected properly, the cable and port are in good shape, there’s enough free space on the drive, and your system drivers are updated.

What Should I Do if I Keep Encountering the Windows Error?

If the error keeps coming back, you should get professional help or contact Microsoft support. Checking for system updates or using data recovery software if you’ve lost data could also be helpful.