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File System Error (-1073740791): What Is & How to Fix It
Check verified solutions to run the affected apps
6 min. read
Updated onApril 2, 2024
updated onApril 2, 2024
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We have all come across app errors on PC, be it with the built-in ones or otherprograms not launching. And while most of these are due to amissing DLL, a few are rather complex in nature. One such is theFile system error (-1073740791).
Usually encountered when running apps that require administrative privileges, theExit code -1073740791affects a wide range of system apps and often leads toWindows crashingor thePC becoming unresponsive. So, let’s find out all about it!
What is File system error (-1073740791)?
TheFile system error (-1073740791)arises due to a problem with the OS or the disk. And based on our research, there isn’t much users can do other than reset or reinstall Windows. The reason, most users are unable to runCommand Promptas administrator, which is vital to the troubleshooting process.
Here are a few reasons users get the error message:
How do I fix File system error (-1073740791)?
Before we head to the slightly complex ones, here are a few quick solutions to try:
If none work, move to the fixes listed next.
1. Run the DISM and SFC scans
In case theFile system error (-1073740791)with Task Manager appeared out of the blue, it could be the system files to blame. And in this case,running the DISM tooland SFC scan should help.
Besides that, it’s also helpful to utilizededicated repair softwarecreated by experts to diagnose your Windows OS and repair damaged system files in minutes.
2. Scan for malware
If theFile system error (-1073740791)with Registry Editor appeared after you downloaded a file or installed an app from an unreliable source, it’s most likely a malware or virus behind it. Run a full system scan to find any. Also, you could use aneffective antivirus solutionfor a thorough scan.
3. Check for disk errors
When theproblem lies with the disk, the built-in Check Disk utility comes to the aid. Run it and wait for any identified problems to be eliminated. Then verify whether theFile system error (-1073740791)while installing programs is fixed.
4. Uninstall Windows updates
5. Create a new user account
For some, acorrupt user profiletriggered theFile system error (-1073740791). Often the simplest solution here is tocreate a new user account, set it as administrator, and transfer the data using a USB drive.
6. Perform a system restore
In case you can’t identify what’s triggering the error, another option is to perform a system restore using arestore point createdprior to the date you first encountered the error. Remember, you may lose some apps, but the personal files remain unaffected.
7. Do an in-place upgrade
When other solutions fail to work againstFile system error (-1073740791), you can perform an in-place upgrade, wherein the Windows installation is repaired and any issues resolved without affecting the stored files or apps. The process may take a few hours.
Before you leave, do check thebest Windows security settingsfor a safer experience and some quick tips tomake your PC faster than ever.
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:Fix EXE file errors
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
