Error 0x800700E1, commonly referred to as the “Operation Did Not Complete” error, typically occurs during file transfers from USB drives or while performing Windows backups. This issue prevents users from successfully completing these operations and displays an error message stating, “Operation did not complete successfully.”

This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of the causes and proven solutions for fixing Error 0x800700E1 on Windows 10 and 11. By following these steps, you can resolve the issue and avoid potential disruptions.

Common Causes of Error 0x800700E1

The error message often points to the presence of malware or potentially unwanted software. However, the actual causes can vary and include:

  1. Malware or viruses: Genuine threats that infect your system.
  2. False positives: Legitimate files being flagged as malware by antivirus programs.
  3. Corrupted system files: Issues within critical Windows files.
  4. Conflicting applications: Background apps interfering with file transfers or backups.
  5. Insufficient storage space: Limited disk space can also trigger the error.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Error 0x800700E1

1. Scan for Malware Using Malwarebytes

Since the error message may indicate the presence of malware, the first step is to perform a thorough scan of your system. Malwarebytes is a trusted third-party tool for this purpose.

  1. Download Malwarebytes from its official website.
  2. Install the application by double-clicking the downloaded setup file and following on-screen instructions.
  3. Launch Malwarebytes and select the Scan option.
  4. If any threats are detected, choose Quarantine to isolate and remove them.
  5. For files on an external USB drive, right-click the folder you wish to scan and select Scan with Malwarebytes after connecting the drive.

2. Temporarily Disable Antivirus Software

Error 0x800700E1 may result from antivirus software falsely flagging files as malware. Temporarily disabling your antivirus software can help:

  1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu.
  2. Go to Virus & threat protection and select Manage settings under its settings section.
  3. Turn off Real-time protection temporarily.
  4. If you’re using third-party antivirus software, disable it from its settings or system tray menu.
  5. Retry the file transfer or backup operation. Re-enable the antivirus software immediately after completing the task.

3. Repair File Explorer

Issues with the File Explorer process may cause this error. Repair it by running specific System File Checker (SFC) commands:

  1. Press Win + S and type CMD. Right-click Command Prompt and choose Run as administrator.
  2. Execute the following commands one at a time: 
    sfc /SCANFILE=c:\windows\explorer.exe
sfc /SCANFILE=C:\Windows\SysWow64\explorer.exe
  3. Wait for the scans to finish and review the results.

4. Clear Temporary Browsing Data

Cached browsing data can interfere with backup operations. Clear your browser’s temporary files and cookies:

  1. Press Win + R, type inetcpl.cpl, and press Enter.
  2. In the Internet Properties window, go to the General tab.
  3. Click Delete under the Browsing history section.
  4. Uncheck Preserve Favorites website data and select Cookies, History, and Temporary Internet Files.
  5. Click Delete to confirm.

For other browsers, access their respective settings to clear browsing data.

5. Add Files to Antivirus Exclusion List

If the error persists, adding the affected files or folders to your antivirus exclusion list can prevent them from being flagged:

  1. Open Windows Security and navigate to Virus & threat protection settings.
  2. Click Manage settings and scroll to the Exclusions section.
  3. Select Add or remove exclusions and click Add an exclusion.
  4. Choose the affected file or folder.
  5. Repeat for any third-party antivirus software if applicable.

6. Perform SFC and DISM Scans

Corrupted system files are a common culprit. Use SFC and DISM utilities to repair them:

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Run the following command to scan and repair system files: 
    SFC /scannow
  3. After the SFC scan, execute the DISM command: 
    DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /Restorehealth
  4. Wait for both processes to complete.

7. Perform a Clean Boot

Background apps may interfere with your operations. A clean boot disables non-essential startup items:

  1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and click OK.
  2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Services tab.
  3. Check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.
  4. Navigate to the Startup tab and open Task Manager.
  5. Disable all startup items.
  6. Restart your computer and check if the issue persists.

Bonus: Recover Files Deleted by Antivirus

If your antivirus deleted files due to suspected threats, you can recover them using tools like Wondershare Recoverit:

  1. Download and install Wondershare Recoverit.
  2. Select the affected drive location and run a scan.
  3. Browse the recovered files, preview them, and select those you wish to restore.
  4. Save the files to a secure location.

Conclusion

Error 0x800700E1 can be frustrating, but it’s manageable with the right approach. From scanning for malware and disabling antivirus software to performing system repairs and clean boots, these methods address both the potential causes and solutions. By following this guide, you’ll be able to resolve the error and ensure seamless file transfers and backups on your Windows 10 or 11 system.

If the issue persists, consider utilizing third-party repair tools or consulting with a professional technician.

Categorized in:

How To,

Tagged in:

,