How to Format the Write Protected Flash Drive
When I want to format my flash drive, it prompts an error message 'The disk is write-protected.' It has no switch, and I guess it's a virus. So I tried using Malwarebytes and Avast, but it is still write-protected. So I removed it manually using a CMD, but I can't hit the delete key. There is no delete option in the window. I also tried the Storage Device Policies in the registry, but it is already set to '0'. Any suggestions?
Best Answered by
Cici· Answered on Apr 01, 2025
If your flash drive is write-protected, you can neither disable the write protection nor format it. In that case, you can only read the information but not change or delete any data on this drive. Sometimes one single file is write-protected could lead to this error. So, it would be best if you made sure the read-only option is unchecked:
- First, find the write protection file, right-click it, and click "Properties."
- Next, scroll down to the "Attributes" section and uncheck the "Read-only" option.
- Finally, click "Apply" to make your operation effective.
Many write protection removal tools also exist if you want to avoid fixing this manually. I highly recommend using EaseUS Partition Master Free to remove the write protection of your flash drive. It has enhanced features like Partition Manager, Disk Clone, and Disk Converter.
Remove the write protection and format the drive as follows:
Step 1. Launch the EaseUS Partition Master Free on your computer.
Step 2. Select the "Toolkit" section from the left navigation bar.
Step 3. Click "Write Protection," select the protected device, and hit the "Disable" button.
Step 4. Open the "Partition Manager" section, right-click, and choose the "Format" option.
Read More: How Do You Format a Micro SD Card
If the above solutions cannot resolve your problem, you can fix the error by killing the virus. However, when connected to your PC, downloading data from illegal websites will infect and attack your flash drive. You can use antivirus software to scan and repair your flash drive.
