Error 0x800700E1: File Operation or Backup Issue

Error 0x800700E1 typically occurs when trying to copy, move, or back up files, and it indicates that the system has detected a virus or potentially harmful software. This is a Windows error related to protection against viruses and other threats.

To resolve this error, you can try the following steps:

1. Check for viruses and malware

Run a full system scan using the built-in Windows Defender or any other antivirus software. If any threats are found, remove or quarantine them. Once the virus is detected and removed, try performing the file action again.

2. Temporarily disable antivirus software

Sometimes, antivirus programs can mistakenly flag safe files as threats. Temporarily disable your antivirus and retry the file operation:

  • To disable Windows Defender:
    • Open Settings → Update & Security → Windows Security → Virus & Threat Protection.
    • Turn off real-time protection temporarily.
  • Remember that disabling antivirus makes your system vulnerable, so only do this for a short period.

3. Check files for system errors

The error might be caused by a corrupted file system. Run a scan to check and repair files:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type the following command: 
    sfc /scannow
  3. Wait for the scan to complete, and if any corrupted files are found, the system will attempt to repair them.

4. Check external storage devices

If the error occurs when copying to an external hard drive, USB, or other storage devices, check them for errors:

  • Connect the device and open its properties.
  • Under the Tools tab, choose Check for errors.

5. Disable Volume Shadow Copy (VSS)

If the error occurs while creating a backup, there might be issues with the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS):

  1. Open Command Prompt with administrator privileges and run the following commands: 
    net stop vss
net start vss

6. Reinstall or update drivers

The issue may be caused by outdated or incompatible drivers. Update the drivers for the device causing problems (such as an external hard drive or USB) through Device Manager.

If none of these steps resolve the issue, the problem might be more complex. In that case, consider updating your system or using specialized tools for file recovery and backups.