Windows has an inbuilt Backup and Restore system. If the Windows Backup or Restore fails with errors 0x80070001, 0x81000037, 0x80070003, then this guide will help you resolve the issue. It is also possible that you may be unable to browse to the files and folders that you want to restore in the File Restore Wizard.
Reasons for Windows Backup & Restore Errors 0x80070001, 0x81000037, 0x80070003
- 0x80070001: This occurs either when you try to back up a specific library or when you accept the default settings in Windows Backup and Restore.
- 0x81000037: Backup fails while trying to read from the shadow copy on one of the volumes being backed up.
- 0x80070003: When you try to restore files or folders in a library by using Windows Backup and Restore.
- You cannot use the Browse for files or the Browse for folders functionality.
Fix Windows Backup or Restore errors 0x80070001, 0x81000037, 0x80070003
Error code 0x80070001, 0x81000037 occurs during backup, while Error code 0x80070003 and “Browse for Files” issue occur while restoring the files.
Windows Backup errors 0x80070001, 0x81000037
The core reason, from what we have shared above, is when a volume uses a FAT file system (0x80070001) and when a volume contains compressed files (0x81000037). The solution to fix both of these is the same: We will have to remove “reparse point” aka SYMBOLIC LINK and choose the absolute path of this location in the Windows Backup configuration user interface.
Open a command prompt, and type the following and then press Enter–
DIR /AL /S
It will display the JUNCTION list.
To delete mounted volume reparse point:
- Locate the reparse point you found, right-click the reparse point icon and click Properties.
- In the General tab, confirm the folder Type is Mounted Volume and then delete this folder.
Windows Backup error 0x80070003
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)
- First, create the missing folder C:\Windows\System32\config\systemprofile\new and then try the operation and see if it works.
- If not, exclude the following folders from the backup operation and see:
- Expand Data Files > Your Libraries > Additional Locations, and then click to clear the AppData folder, Contacts, and Searches checkboxes.
- Expand Computer > System Drive > Your user name > Select the AppData, Contacts, and Searches checkboxes.
Related: Element not Found (0x80070490), Windows Backup error
Restore Files operation Error 0x81000037
When a backed-up directory is deleted, and you try to restore it, it fails with Error code 0x81000037. This can also happen when you select to restore the files to their original subfolders check box in the File Restore Wizard, and you try to restore files or folders to an alternative location. This is what the error will look like:
The only way to fix this is to re-create the missing directory:
- Make a note of the path for which the error occurs.
- Create the corresponding folder.
- Perform the restore operation again.
Since you may have subfolders in the deleted folder, click to clear the Restore the files to their original subfolders checkbox when you run the File Restore Wizard.
Related: Fix Error 0x80070002 during Windows Backup
How do I fix Windows failed to restore?
To fix Windows System Restore when it fails, start by checking the System Protection settings. Ensure it’s enabled and sufficient disk space is allocated. Run System Restore in Safe Mode to eliminate software conflicts. Disable antivirus software temporarily and use the sfc /scannow command to repair corrupted files, ensuring a successful restore.
Why does my Windows backup keep failing?
Your Windows backup may fail due to insufficient storage space, corrupted system files, or outdated backup settings. Ensure you have enough disk space, run system file checks, and update your backup configurations. Disabling third-party antivirus software might also resolve conflicts that can cause backup failures.
Cannot use the Browse for files or the Browse for folders functionality
There is no proper fix, but if you remember the name of the files, you can search for them. When using the File Restore functionality, click on the Search button, and then type the file name. When the file appears, select, and click on to restore.
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