How to Fix Error 0x800703EE When Copying Files

Error 0x800703EE typically occurs when attempting to copy files to external devices, such as USB drives or external hard disks, and can indicate several issues. Here are a few methods to resolve this error:

1. Check the device for viruses
Ensure that the device you're copying the files to is not infected with malware. Use an antivirus program to scan both your computer and the external device.

2. Restart your computer
Sometimes a simple restart can fix the issue by resetting any temporary processes that might be interfering with the file transfer.

3. Run a disk check on the device
The problem might be related to a file system error on the device. You can use the built-in Windows disk check tool for this:

  • Open File Explorer.
  • Right-click on the device where you're copying the files.
  • Select Properties → Tools → Error checking.

4. Temporarily disable antivirus software
In some cases, antivirus software may block file copying. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily and attempt the file transfer again.

5. Disable the "Windows Backup" service
Some users report that disabling the Windows Backup service helped to fix the error:

  • Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
  • Locate the Windows Backup service, right-click on it, and select Stop.

6. Use compatibility mode
If you're copying files from a DVD or other older devices, try enabling compatibility mode:

  • Right-click on the file or folder.
  • Select Properties → Compatibility, and choose a previous version of Windows.

7. Update or reinstall drivers
Corrupted or outdated USB drivers could cause this error. Try updating or reinstalling the USB drivers:

  • Open Device Manager (press Win + X and select it).
  • Find your USB device, right-click on it, and select Update driver or Uninstall device (then restart your PC so Windows can automatically reinstall the driver).

8. Use SFC and DISM commands
These commands scan and repair Windows system files:

  • Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Wait for the process to complete.
  • Then run the command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth to restore system integrity.

9. Format the device
If none of the above steps work and the error persists, you may need to format the device. This will erase all data, so be sure to back up your files first:

  • Open File Explorer.
  • Right-click on the device and select Format.
  • Choose the file system (e.g., NTFS) and start the process.

Each of these steps can help resolve error 0x800703EE. Try them in order, starting with the simplest methods.