Ways to Fix Windows Error Code 0x800701e3 [HDD Error]

Error code 0x800701e3 typically indicates a problem with Windows installation or file transfer, and it is often associated with hardware issues, such as malfunctioning peripherals or faulty hard drive sectors.

"Error 0x800701E3: The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error" is a scenario that most Windows users encounter frequently. This error may be caused by malfunctioning cables (such as USB or SATA), broken storage devices (such as external hard drives or SSDs), or technical problems with the computer.

What is Error Code 0x800701e3

"The request failed due to a fatal device hardware error," which is the error number 0x800701E3, usually denotes an issue with a storage device, such as an SSD or external hard drive. This error frequently occurs when the system cannot access data on the impacted drive, during file transfers, or during installations. It indicates a possible logical or physical issue with the storage device, which a bad sector, malfunctioning hardware, or a poor connection can cause.

The following are the most typical indicators of hard disk error:

• Overheating Unusual noises
• corrupted files, directories, and data
• Frequently occurring error messages
• System failures
• Death's blue screen

Solutions to Fix Error Code 0x800701e3

When you get this kind of error, do not worry! Here are a couple of solutions for this issue, which is pretty straightforward, even for someone without extensive technical experience. Just follow the instructions in the methods below to resolve Windows Update errors 0x800701e3.

1. 1. Check Disk Connections
2. 2. Run CHKDSK
3. 3. Seek Professional Help
4. 4. Run SFC
5. 5. Reinstalling Drivers:

Solution 1. Check Disk Connections

Verify that all of the hard drive's connections are formed correctly if it is not recognizable due to a loose connection. Verify that there are no cuts in the wiring, then attempt these easy fixes:

• Try using a different USB port on your computer.
• Attach the drive to an alternative computer.
• If the existing cable is damaged, replace it.
• Try using a different electrical outlet. Drives on the desktop

After this, restart your computer and then access Windows Update. 

Solution 2. Run CHKDSK 

A hard drive may not appear correctly in File Explorer due to file system issues or damaged sectors. Running CHKDSK can be a useful tool for hard disk repair and assist in identifying and resolving issues to restore access.

Step 1. Type cmd into the Command Prompt, press Windows + S, and then right-click and select Run as administrator.

Step 2. Type chkdsk C: /f /r /x into the command window and hit Enter. Put your real drive letter in place of "C:".

Step 3. Give CHKDSK time to finish scanning and fixing the issue. After finishing, see if "This PC" now displays the hard drive.

Solution 3. Seek Professional Help

Important Note: Backup Data When Error 0x800701e3 Occurs

After using the preceding techniques, hopefully, you will have a functional hard drive. For users with critical data on the undiscovered hard drive, there is one additional warning: create a disk copy of your drive and perform data recovery before attempting any disk-related fixes. Try the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard right away if you have already lost some critical files on your hard drive.

We recommend keeping a copy of EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard available at all times, in case of an emergency, as hardware can malfunction at any moment. Steps to recover files from a corrupted hard drive:

Note: To guarantee a high data recovery chance, install EaseUS data recovery software on another disk instead of the original disk where you lost files. 

Step 1. Launch EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard on your Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8, or Windows 7 computer. Select the disk partition or storage location where you lost data and click "Search for Lost Data".

Step 2. This recovery software will start scanning the disk to find all lost and deleted files. When the scan process completes, click "Filter" > "Type" to specify lost file types. If you remember the file name, you can also search in the search box, which is the fastest way to find the target file.

Step 3. Preview and restore lost Windows files. You can double-click to preview the scanned files. Then, select the target data and click the "Recover" button to save them to another safe spot in the PC or Cloud drive.

If you find this information helpful, please share it with others on social media to assist them in overcoming this common challenge.

Solution 4. Run SFC

Another reason for this error code 0x800701e3 is that the system files are damaged. To scan Windows and fix system files, use the DISM and System File Checker (SFC) programs.

How to execute the SFC scannow command:

Step 1. Select Command Prompt (Admin)  from the list by pressing Windows + X keys.

Step 2. Type the command sfc/scannow into the Command Prompt window and hit "enter"

If the file cache is found to be changed or corrupted, the SFC may attempt to repair it.

Solution 5. Reinstalling Drivers

Since the 0x800701e3 error is a driver-related issue, fixing the driver issue should be the choice. 

Step 1. Select "This PC" with a right-click, then "Manage." Click "Device Manager" in the left panel.

Step 2. Expand the disk driver in step two. Choose "Update Driver Software..." when you right-click on the out-of-date or faulty disk driver.

Step 3. Select "Search automatically for updated driver software" from the Update Driver Software window, then watch for the procedure to finish. The most recent driver software will then be installed on your machine. Try updating Windows once again.

Common Causes of Error 0x800701e3

What caused this mistake, therefore, and how can you tell if your drive is experiencing it? Examine the following table:

• Hard Drive Bad Sectors: The most common reason is the existence of bad sectors, which are regions of the drive that are unreliable for reading or writing data.
• Faulty File System: This problem may also be caused by issues with the file system, which is the way data is arranged on the drive.
• Hardware Issues: The primary culprit may be a malfunctioning hard drive, a bad SATA cable, or other peripheral issues.
• Installing Windows Failure: An error may occur during the Windows setup process, particularly when the installer checks the destination drive for errors.
• File Transfer Issues: This error may also appear when copying files, especially if there are issues with the destination drive.

Conclusion

Unexpected error codes, such as 0x800701e3, are always present. Users worry when that happens because they run the risk of losing essential data for which they might not have a backup. Losing important data is a major annoyance for everyone. Let's say you don't frequently and consistently back up your information.

Under such circumstances, you may want to think about downloading a trustworthy file recovery application, such as the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard software, which can effectively recover deleted data and spare you a great deal of hassle while you repair your system.

FAQ on Fix Error Code 0x800701e3 in Windows 10/11 Update

If you still have some questions about error code 0x800701e3, check the quick answers below to help yourself out:

1. What does error 0x800701e3 mean?

A fatal device hardware issue, usually during file transfer or operating system installation, is indicated by error code 0x800701e3. It indicates that the required operation is not possible due to an issue with the storage device (such as a hard disk or SSD) or its connection.

2. How do I fix a Windows 10 update error?

Start by using the Windows Update troubleshooter to resolve Windows 10 update issues. Check your internet connection, ensure you have administrator access, and unplug any extraneous external devices if the problem persists. If the issue persists, you may need to reinstall the system, check your disk for errors, or clear the update cache.