Error 0x80070091 During Windows Recovery: Solutions and Fixes

Error 0x80070091 during Windows recovery typically indicates that the system cannot delete or access a specific folder marked as "not empty" (such as the "WindowsApps" folder). This can happen when using the system restore tool or installing updates. Here are a few methods to resolve this issue:

Method 1: Using Safe Mode

1. Restart your computer and enter Safe Mode:

• Press Win + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
• Go to the "Boot" tab and check the "Safe boot" option.
• Restart the system.

2. Try running the system restore again in Safe Mode.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator:

• Press Win + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "PowerShell (Admin)".

2. Enter the following commands one by one:

chkdsk /f /r

This will check your disk for errors and attempt to fix them.

You can also reset the file permissions if the issue is related to the WindowsApps folder:

icacls C:\Program Files\WindowsApps /reset /t /c /q

Method 3: Disable Antivirus

Sometimes antivirus software may block the restore process. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and then rerun the system restore.

Method 4: Remove the Problematic Folder via Command Prompt

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.

2. Use the command to forcibly delete the folder:

rd /s /q "C:\Program Files\WindowsApps"

This will delete the folder that may be blocking the recovery.

Method 5: Check and Repair System Files

1. In the Command Prompt with administrative privileges, run the following command:

sfc /scannow

This will check for and attempt to repair corrupted system files.

2. You can also use the DISM tool to restore Windows components:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

If none of these methods work, the issue might be more severe, and you may need to reinstall the system or use an external boot disk to recover.

Have you tried any of these methods, or would you like help with a specific step?