Home backup error codes troubleshooting windows

Windows Backup Blues? Error Codes 0x80070001, 0x81000037, 0x80070003 Explained

Updated: • 0 • min read
Table of Contents

Having a bit of a Windows backup meltdown? Seeing scary error codes like 0x80070001, 0x81000037, or 0x80070003? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back! This guide will walk you through the fixes for these pesky Windows backup and restore issues, even if you’re having trouble browsing for the files you need.

Windows Backup Blues
“image just illustration”

Decoding the Windows Backup Blues: Error Codes Explained

Let’s break down why these errors happen. Understanding the problem is half the battle, right?

  • 0x80070001: This one usually pops up when you’re trying to back up a specific library or if you’re rolling with the default settings in Windows Backup and Restore. It often points to an issue with the file system.

  • 0x81000037: This error crashes the party when Windows Backup tries to read from the shadow copy on one of the volumes being backed up. Think of it as a hiccup in the backup process.

  • 0x80070003: This little gremlin appears when you try to restore files or folders using Windows Backup and Restore. It also likes to show up when you’re trying to browse for files to restore.

  • Can’t Browse for Files/Folders: Sometimes, the “Browse for files” or “Browse for folders” option just gives up on you. Super frustrating!

Fixing the Backup Blues: Solutions and Workarounds

Now that we know why these errors happen, let’s get down to fixing them.

Tackling Backup Errors 0x80070001 and 0x81000037

These errors often crop up because of something called a “reparse point” (also known as a symbolic link). It’s like a shortcut that points to another location. Sometimes, Windows Backup gets confused by these. Here’s the fix:

  1. Open a command prompt (search for “cmd” in the Start menu and run it as administrator).

  2. Type DIR /AL /S and press Enter. This will show you a list of junctions (a type of reparse point).

  3. Find the troublesome reparse point, right-click it, and select Properties.

  4. In the General tab, check if the folder Type is “Mounted Volume.” If it is, delete this folder.

Wrestling with Backup Error 0x80070003

This error often comes with a message like: “Backup encountered a problem while backing up file C:\Windows\System32\config\systemprofile\new to be saved\music\user. Error: The system cannot find the path specified. (0x80070003)”

Try this:

  1. Create the missing folder (in this example, C:\Windows\System32\config\systemprofile\new). Sometimes, that’s all it takes!

  2. If that doesn’t work, try excluding certain folders from the backup:

    • Expand Data Files > Your Libraries > Additional Locations, and then uncheck AppData, Contacts, and Searches.
    • Expand Computer > System Drive > Your user name > and then uncheck AppData, Contacts, and Searches.

Conquering Restore Error 0x81000037

This error usually means you’re trying to restore to a directory that no longer exists. Simple fix:

  1. Note down the path that’s causing the error.

  2. Recreate the missing folder.

  3. Try restoring again.

Pro tip: Uncheck the “Restore the files to their original subfolders” option in the File Restore Wizard, especially if the original folder had subfolders.

When Windows Restore Fails

If Windows System Restore itself is acting up, check these things:

  • Make sure System Protection is turned on and has enough disk space.

  • Try running System Restore in Safe Mode (restart your computer and repeatedly press F8 or Shift+F8 during startup).

  • Temporarily disable your antivirus software.

  • Run the System File Checker: open a command prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow.

Backup Keeps Failing? Here’s Why:

  • Not Enough Space: Your backup drive might be full. Clear some space or use a bigger drive.

  • Corrupted Files: Run the System File Checker (sfc /scannow).

  • Old Backup Settings: Double-check your backup settings and make sure they’re up to date.

  • Antivirus Interference: Temporarily disable your antivirus.

Can’t Browse for Files or Folders?

If the browse function is being stubborn, try searching for the files by name. In the File Restore window, click the Search button and type the file name.

Still Having Trouble?

We’re here to help! Leave a comment below with your specific issue, and we’ll do our best to get you back on track. Don’t be a stranger—we love hearing from you and helping you conquer those Windows woes. Come back anytime for more tech tips and tricks!

Post a Comment