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6 Fixes for The System Cannot Write to the Specified Device

Corrupt or broken system files are the chief causes of this issue

5 min. read

Updated onMarch 22, 2024

updated onMarch 22, 2024

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Key notes

The ERROR_WRITE_FAULT error code withThe system cannot write to the specified devicedescription occurs when users try to install the latest updates on their computers. Reportedly, this error is prevalent for driver updates.

It may also occur when users try to create andsave backup files and folders. Irrespective of the causes, we have gathered the surefire solutions that will help you fix it in this guide.

What causes The system cannot write to the specified device error?

The system cannot write to the specified device error can be down varying reasons. Listed below are some of the various causes:

How can I fix The system cannot write to the specified device error?

1. Perform an SFC scan

If your getting the 0x1d – the system cannot write to the specified device error on your PC, running the SFC scan on CMD should restore normalcy. This is because most variations of the error are caused by faulty or missing system files.

Alternatively, you can fix these files using aspecialized toolto restore or replace corrupted files and folders as well.

2. Run the CHKDSK command

Memory issues can make lead to the WinToUSB the system cannot write to the specified device error. The CHKDSK command is a powerful built-in tool known to fix many memory issues, including this one.

Thus, you should try it too.

3. Scan for malware

Malware may cause various issues on your computer, including the system cannot write to the specified device error. Performing a full system scan should help clear them and restore your PC’s health.

However, if you want to run a really deep scan and eliminate even the most stubborn virus, you should a third-party antivirus in ESET NOD32.

This lightweight software employs a no-nonsense policy against viruses. It eliminates them before they can affect your PC. All these without disturbing your activities.

4. Update your OS

Windows updates are important in fixing bugs and issues. If you have not updated your PC in a long time, you can face the system cannot write to the specified device error.

After installing the updates, remember to restart your PC.

As a quick reminder, Microsoft constantly rolls out Windows updates in order to improve the system’s stability and fix various issues.

5. Clean your temporary files and folders

At times, the system cannot write to the specified device error can be because of junk files on your hard drive. The Disk Cleanup tool will help you clear the files you want to remove.

Another option, which is probably a better one, is to use a dedicated tool in CCleaner. This tool helps to optimize your PC by clearing out junk files and unwanted documents.

CCleaner also serves as an uninstaller software that can remove an unwanted app and its components. It might just be all you need to protect your PC from this type of issue.

6. Run the Hardware and Device troubleshooter

One of the best things about the Windows OS is its array of troubleshooters. Running the hardware and devices troubleshooter helps to fix many hardware issues including the system cannot write to the specified device error.

You should restart your PC after applying the fixes to let them take effect.

With this, we can conclude this guide. We believe that you have everything you need to fix the system cannot write to the specified device error easily. All you need to do it to follow the steps carefully.

If you are facing other problems likeyour device ran into a problem and needs to restart, check our detailed guide to fix it effectively.

Feel free to let us know the solution that helped you solve this problem in the comments below.

6 Fixes for The System Cannot Write to the Specified Device#

What causes The system cannot write to the specified device error?#

How can I fix The system cannot write to the specified device error?#

1. Perform an SFC scan#

2. Run the CHKDSK command#

3. Scan for malware#

4. Update your OS#

5. Clean your temporary files and folders#

6. Run the Hardware and Device troubleshooter#