Understanding “The Parameter is Incorrect” Error (0x80070057)
When you encounter the error message “The parameter is incorrect” with error code 0x80070057 while trying to access, copy, or back up your files, you’re facing one of Windows’ most frustrating yet common storage-related errors. This specific error occurs when Windows cannot properly process a request related to your storage device or files, often indicating file system corruption or hardware issues.
Unlike many generic Windows errors, error code 0x80070057 is particularly concerning because it frequently prevents access to important data and can appear during critical operations like backups or large file transfers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through understanding this error, recovering your affected data, and resolving the underlying issues.
What Causes “The Parameter is Incorrect” Error 0x80070057?
Several factors can trigger this specific error code:
1. File System Corruption
The most common cause is damage to the file system structures:
– Corrupted Master File Table (MFT) in NTFS volumes
– Damaged file allocation tables
– Cross-linked files or folders
– Incomplete disk operations due to improper shutdowns
2. Bad Sectors on Storage Media
Physical or logical damage to disk sectors:
– Physical bad sectors on hard drives
– Worn-out cells on SSDs
– Logical bad sectors due to improper shutdowns
– Degraded storage media quality
3. Oversized Files or Paths
Windows limitations can trigger this error:
– File paths exceeding 260 characters
– Individual files larger than 4GB on FAT32 drives
– Folder structures too deep (more than 255 levels)
4. Drive Connection Issues
Problems with how the drive connects to your system:
– Loose or damaged cables
– Faulty USB ports or controllers
– Insufficient power to external drives
– Driver conflicts or outdated drivers
5. Antivirus Interference
Sometimes, security software can cause this error:
– Real-time scanning, blocking file operations
– Quarantined files creating reference issues
– Security software bugs affecting file system operations
Common Scenarios Where Error 0x80070057 Appears
This error typically appears in these specific situations:
When Copying Large Files
Attempting to copy or move large files, especially:
– Video files over 4GB to FAT32 drives
– Multiple files in a single operation
– Files with special characters in names
During Backup Operations
Particularly common during:
– Windows Backup procedures
– Third-party backup software operations
– System image creation
When Accessing External Drives
Often occurs with:
– USB flash drives
– External hard drives
– Network attached storage (NAS)
– SD cards and memory cards
During Disk Management Operations
Can appear when:
– Formatting drives
– Partitioning storage
– Converting file systems
– Extending or shrinking volumes
Immediate Actions When Facing Error 0x80070057
When you encounter this error, follow these steps immediately:
1. Stop Current Operations
Immediately cancel any ongoing file operations to prevent further corruption.
2. Check Physical Connections
For external drives:
– Ensure cables are firmly connected
– Try different USB ports
– Connect directly to the computer (not through a hub)
– Try a different cable if available
3. Restart Your Computer
A simple restart can resolve temporary system issues that might be causing the error.
4. Document the Exact Error Context
Note exactly what you were doing when the error occurred:
– Which files were being accessed
– What operation was being performed
– Which drives or folders were involved
Data Recovery Methods for Error 0x80070057
Method 1: Use Built-in Windows Tools
Windows provides several utilities that can help with this error:
CHKDSK Command
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Type: `chkdsk X: /f /r` (replace X with your drive letter)
3. Press Enter and wait for the process to complete
The parameters used:
– `/f` fixes errors on the disk
– `/r` locates bad sectors and recovers readable information
SFC (System File Checker)
If system files are affected:
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Type: `sfc /scannow`
3. Press Enter and allow the scan to complete
DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)
For deeper system file repairs:
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Type: `DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth`
3. Press Enter and wait for completion
Method 2: Alternative File Copy Methods
When standard copying fails with error 0x80070057:
Robocopy Command Line Tool
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Use the Robocopy command:
“`
robocopy “source_folder” “destination_folder” /E /ZB /R:5 /W:5
“`
The parameters used:
– `/E` copies subdirectories, including empty ones
– `/ZB` uses restartable mode; if access denied, uses backup mode
– `/R:5` retries 5 times if access is denied
– `/W:5` waits 5 seconds between retries
TeraCopy or FastCopy
These third-party tools often succeed where Windows Explorer fails:
1. Download and install TeraCopy or FastCopy
2. Right-click the files/folders you want to copy
3. Select “TeraCopy” or “FastCopy” from the context menu
4. Choose your destination and start the copy process
Method 3: Specialized Data Recovery Software
When Windows tools aren’t enough, dedicated recovery software can help:
R-Studio
Particularly effective for severe corruption:
1. Install R-Studio on a different drive than the affected one
2. Launch the program and select the problematic drive
3. Perform a full scan
4. Preview recoverable files before restoration
5. Recover files to a different storage device
GetDataBack
Excellent for recovering from drives with bad sectors:
1. Install GetDataBack
2. Select the affected drive
3. Choose the scan type (usually “Complete Recovery”)
4. Wait for the scan to complete
5. Browse the recoverable file structure
6. Select and recover files to a different drive
Recuva
A simpler option for less severe cases:
1. Install Recuva
2. Launch the program and use the wizard or advanced mode
3. Select the drive and file types to recover
4. Enable “Deep Scan” for better results with corrupted files
5. Preview and recover files to a different location
Method 4: Fix Long Path Issues
If the error is related to path length limitations:
Enable Long Path Support in Windows 10/11
1. Press Win+R, type `gpedit.msc` and press Enter
2. Navigate to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Filesystem
3. Find “Enable Win32 long paths” and set it to “Enabled”
4. Restart your computer
Use Path Shortening Tools
1. Install a tool like Path Scanner or Long Path Tool
2. Scan your drive for overly long paths
3. Use the tool to shorten paths or move files to locations with shorter paths
Method 5: Disable Antivirus Temporarily
If security software is interfering:
1. Temporarily disable your antivirus software
2. Attempt the file operation that was generating the error
3. If successful, add exclusions in your antivirus for specific folders
4. Re-enable your antivirus when finished
Fixing “The Parameter is Incorrect” Error After Data Recovery
Once your data is safely recovered, address the underlying issues:
1. Repair File System
For comprehensive file system repairs:
1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
2. Run a thorough CHKDSK:
“`
chkdsk X: /f /r /x
“`
(Replace X with your drive letter)
The additional `/x` parameter forces the volume to dismount first if necessary
3. For external drives, consider reformatting after recovery:
– Back up all data first
– Right-click the drive in File Explorer
– Select “Format”
– Choose NTFS for larger drives (avoid FAT32 for drives larger than 32GB)
– Uncheck “Quick Format” for a more thorough formatting
2. Update Drivers and Firmware
1. Update storage controller drivers:
– Open Device Manager
– Expand “Disk drives” and “Storage controllers”
– Right-click each device and select “Update driver”
2. Update drive firmware:
– Check the manufacturer’s website for firmware updates
– Follow their specific update procedures carefully
– Note that firmware updates carry some risk
3. Check for Hardware Issues
1. Run manufacturer diagnostic tools:
– SeaTools for Seagate drives
– Data Lifeguard for Western Digital
– SSD Life for solid state drives
2. Check S.M.A.R.T. attributes using CrystalDiskInfo:
– Look for “Caution” or “Bad” status
– Check for high reallocated sectors count
– Monitor pending sector count
3. Consider replacing the drive if:
– Diagnostics show failures
– S.M.A.R.T. status is not “Good”
– The error continues to occur despite repairs
Preventing Future “Parameter is Incorrect” Errors
Implement these preventive measures to avoid future instances:
1. Regular Maintenance
– Run CHKDSK quarterly: `chkdsk C: /f`
– Keep Windows updated
– Update drivers regularly
– Monitor drive health with S.M.A.R.T. tools
2. Safe Computing Practices
– Always use “Safely Remove Hardware” before disconnecting drives
– Shut down properly instead of forcing power off
– Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) to prevent power loss during disk operations
– Avoid extremely long file paths (stay under 200 characters when possible)
3. Backup Strategy
– Follow the 3-2-1 backup rule (3 copies, 2 different media types, 1 off-site)
– Use reliable backup software that verifies copies
– Test your backups regularly by performing restore operations
– Consider cloud backup solutions for critical data
4. File System Considerations
– Use NTFS for Windows drives larger than 32GB
– Consider exFAT for cross-platform compatibility with large files
– Avoid FAT32 for drives that will store files larger than 4GB
– Periodically defragment traditional hard drives (not SSDs)
Troubleshooting Specific Error 0x80070057 Scenarios
Scenario 1: Error When Copying to External Drive
If the error occurs specifically when copying to external storage:
1. Check the file system of the destination drive:
– Right-click the drive in File Explorer
– Select “Properties”
– Note the file system (FAT32, NTFS, exFAT)
2. If using FAT32 and copying files larger than 4GB:
– Back up all data from the external drive
– Reformat the drive as NTFS or exFAT
– Copy your files again
3. If the drive is already NTFS or exFAT:
– Try copying files in smaller batches
– Use Robocopy or TeraCopy instead of File Explorer
– Check for bad sectors using CHKDSK
Scenario 2: Error During Windows Backup
When the error appears during Windows Backup operations:
1. Try an alternative backup location:
– Use a different external drive
– Try a network location
– Consider cloud backup services
2. Modify your backup selection:
– Exclude problematic folders temporarily
– Break the backup into smaller jobs
– Check for files with unusual permissions
3. Reset Windows Backup components:
– Open Command Prompt as Administrator
– Type: `net stop wbengine`
– Type: `del %windir%\system32\wbem\repository\*.* /s /q`
– Type: `net start wbengine`
– Try the backup again
Scenario 3: Error with Network Drives
For errors when accessing network storage:
1. Check network connectivity:
– Ensure stable connection to the network
– Verify you have proper permissions on the network share
2. Map the network drive with different settings:
– Right-click “This PC” and select “Map network drive”
– Check “Connect using different credentials” if necessary
– Try both with and without “Reconnect at sign-in” option
3. Use UNC paths instead of mapped drives:
– Instead of using `Z:\folder`, use `\\server\share\folder`
– This bypasses some mapping-related issues
Conclusion
Error 0x80070057 “The parameter is incorrect” can be frustrating, but with the right approach, you can often recover your data and fix the underlying issues. Remember that this error often indicates actual problems with your storage media or file system that should be addressed promptly.
After experiencing this error, it’s wise to be proactive about checking drive health and implementing a robust backup strategy. Regular maintenance and safe computing practices can help prevent future occurrences of this and similar errors.
Have you successfully resolved error 0x80070057? Share your experience in the comments below to help others facing similar challenges. Know about How to Fix “Unmountable Boot Volume” BSOD Error 0x000000ED
