How to Fix QuickBooks Error 0x800701b1 | Causes & Solutions

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 0x800701b1?

Published Date: September 2, 2025   Updated Date: September 2, 2025

QuickBooks error 0x800701B1 arises when Windows cancels file transfers. It often arises when copying files between external drives (USB) and the system. Users have experienced this issue during large or small file transfers.

Due to the error 0x800701B1, access to QuickBooks company files is blocked. Furthermore, it slows down payments, transactions, and reports. Bookkeeping, payroll, and data syncing are also impacted. Consequently, business operations are significantly delayed.

In this guide, complete information on QuickBooks error 0x800701B1 has been shared. It includes the causes that trigger the error and effective solutions to fix it. Read through the article to understand and fix the error successfully.

QuickBooks Error Code 0x800701B1: What You need to Know?

Error code 0x800701B1 is a Windows error, often occurring in Windows 10 and 11. It usually arises while transferring the files and folders. The system fails to determine the target device and prevents the transfer.

The error message for 0x800701B1 states:

“An unexpected error is keeping you from copying the file. If you continue to receive this error, you can use the error code to search for help with this problem.
Error 0x800701B1: A device that does not exist was specified.”

Note: This issue blocks routine tasks like file transfer between external storage devices/drives.

What are the Causes of QuickBooks Error 0x800701B1?

This issue arises when Windows fails to use the targeted storage device. Multiple factors give rise to the issue and restrict file transfers.

Here is the list of the causes of QuickBooks error 0x800701B1:

  • Defective Storage Device

The source or target device like an external hard drive or USD is defective. It cannot write or read data correctly.

  • Invalid/unusable files

Due to abrupt shutdowns, improper saving, malware, or faulty sectors, files become corrupted. Due to these corrupted files, the transfer process is blocked.

  • Folder and File Access Rights

Due to the lack of required permissions, the system prevents access to the source location. Usually, malware or the transfer of ownership triggers this issue.

  • Restrictions on File size

Files larger than 4GB are not supported by outdated devices using the FAT32 file system. This leads to unsuccessful transfers.

Checklist before Fixing Error 0x800701B1

Try a few important checks before implementing the solutions. These quick steps may fix the issue without requiring any crucial troubleshooting.

Here is the list of checklist before fixing the QuickBooks error 0x800701B1:

  • Reboot the System: A normal restart often erases temporary issues in a system.
  • Test a Different File: Transfer a different file. When it works, it implies that the original file is faulty.
  • Temporarily Deactivate Antivirus Software: Security software may restrict the file transfer. Shut it off and try again.

How to Fix the QuickBooks Error 0x800701B1?

Identifying the cause and implementing the right methods can fix this issue successfully. Here are the different solutions to fix the QuickBooks error 0x800701B1:

Solution 1: Plug the Device into a different System or USB Port

Begin by checking for hardware issues. Link the external hard drive to a different system and move the same files.

  • The issue is with the drive when the error occurs on the second drive.
  • The issue is with the system if the drive works properly.

Now, try modifying the USD port on the system.

  • For a quicker and improved power supply, use a USB 3.0 port, rather than 2.0.
  • Switch the device to another USB 3.0 port and restart the transfer.

The step confirms that the issue is not due to low transfer speed from the USB.

Solution 2: Examine Drive Security Settings

Wrong security clearances often restrict access to the drive. Change the security settings to resolve this. Here are the steps to check drive security settings:

  • Click the “File Explorer” option and head to “This PC“.
  • Perform a right-click on the target drive- “Properties“.
  • Click the “Security” tab.
  • Now click the “Advanced” option.
  • Click the “Change” option, available beside the owner.
  • Choose the “Advanced” option. Next, click “Find Now” and select the username.
  • Allow “Replace All Child Object Permission Entries with Inheritable Permission Entries from This Object“.
  • Click the “Apply” button and verify the changes.

Solution 3: Update USB Drivers or Reinstall Them

Mismatched or old drivers can give rise to this issue. Updating the drivers sometimes resolves the error. Here are the steps to reinstall or update the USB drivers:

  • Click the keys “Win + X” to start the Device Manager.
  • Now, open the disk drives.
  • Next, right-click on the USB drive. Now, select the “Properties” option.
  • Head to the “Driver” tab. Keep a record of the present driver version.
  • Click the “Update Driver” option.
  • Select the option “Browse My Computer for Drivers“.
  • Now choose the option “Let Me Pick from a List of Available Drivers“.
  • Select the right driver and click the “Next” button to install it.

Solution 4: Assign Drive Ownership in Security Settings

The issue may arise when Windows prevents access due to a lack of permissions. Setting drive ownership through security settings can help resolve it.

Here are the steps to assign drive ownership in security settings:

  • Open the “File Explorer“.
  • Now, click the “This PC” option.
  • Now, right-click the faulty drive and choose the option “Properties“.
  • Head to the “Security” tab.
  • Now click the “Advanced” option.
  • Click the “Change” option beside the owner.
  • Click the “Advanced” option and the “Find Now” in the new screen.
  • Choose the username. Now, click the “OK” button.
  • Allow “Replace All Child Object Permission Entries with Inheritable Permission Entries from This Object“.
  • Click the “Apply” button and verify.
  • Now, verify if the issue is fixed or not.

Solution 5: Review the File System Errors with CHKDSK

A File System error can give rise to this issue. Windows comprise an integrated tool to determine and fix them. Here are the steps to check the file system errors with CHKDSK:

  1. In the search bar, enter CMD.
  2. Hit right-click on “Command Prompt“.
  3. Now, choose the option “Run as Administrator“.
  4. Enter the following command:
    • CHKDSK C: /f /r /x
  5. Allow the scan process and repair to complete. It can be time-consuming based on the drive.
  6. Reboot the system once CHKDSK is over.
  7. Check if the QuickBooks error 0x800701B1 is resolved.

Solution 6: Access the HDD, SSD or USB Drive

Some drives are locked with secure passwords. A locked device will stop file transfers. Here are the steps to unlock the HDD, SSD, or USB Drive:

  • Verify if the external HDD, SSD, or USB is protected by the manufacturer’s software.
  • Start the drive management tool offered by the manufacturer.
  • Deactivate the lock and turn off the password lock from the main menu.
  • After it is unlocked, try the file transfer again.

Solution 7: Rescan all disks via Disk Management

Rescanning in Disk Management works when Windows fails to use connected drives. Here are the steps to rescan all disks via Disk Management:

  • Click the keys “Win+R“.
  • Now, enter diskmgmt.msc. Now, click the “OK” button.
  • Click the “Action” tab in Disk Management.
  • Now, choose the option “Rescan Disks“.
  • Allow the procedure to finish.
  • Try the file transfer to see if the issue is resolved.

Solution 8: Modify the Drive Format

Changing the drive format to NTFS erases file transfer issues from file system errors. Here are the steps to change the Drive format:

  • Click the “File Explorer“.
  • Now, right-click the faulty drive.
  • Choose the “Format” option.
  • Select “NTFS” under the “File System” tab.
  • Click the “Start” button. Give some time to the procedure and then choose the “Close” button.
  • Reboot the system and try the file transfer once more.

Solution 9: Start the Antivirus Scan

Often, malware infections stop file transfers and give rise to this issue. Here are the steps to start the antivirus scan:

  • Access a reliable antivirus software or Windows Security.
  • Perform a Full Scan of the device.
  • Erase any threat identified.
  • Reboot the system and check if the issue is fixed.

Final words

QuickBooks error 0x800701b1 is uncertain and can lead to severe data loss. Hence, always take a backup of the key files to stay safe. In this guide, all the solutions have been outlined to help you fix the error successfully.

Still, if there is any confusion or query, feel free to call our team of experts.


Faqs About QuickBooks Error 0x800701b1

Can error 0x800701b1 be fixed without changing the device?

Yes. The error can be resolved by changing the USB ports, running CHKDSK, and updating Windows drivers to fix disk errors. In most cases, these solutions fix the device without replacing it. However, for hardware damage, these methods do not work.

How to stop QuickBooks error 0x800701b1 from recurring in the future?

To prevent the re-occurrence of the error in the future, ensure to keep USB and storage drivers updated. Furthermore, prevent removal of the device abruptly and perform regular checks to keep disks healthy to avoid re-occurrence. In addition, check the external drives often and install the updated system software.

Does the error 0x800701b1 always imply a faulty device?

No. The error often arises from damaged files, old drivers, or defective USB ports. Hardware issues become evident when troubleshooting is unsuccessful. Checking the drive on a different system helps verify whether the issue is with the device only.

Is it Possible to fix a corrupted USB to resolve the Error 0x800701b1?

Yes. To attempt repair, access Disk Scan, formatting tools, etc. Check the USB on a different system. Then, if the issue persists, take a backup of the data instantly. Next, reformat the drive to recover functionality and make it completely functional.

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