Share this article
Improve this guide
An Unexpected Error is Keeping you From Copying the File
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
There are books written about troubleshootingWindows 10issues. However, there are rare and peculiarerrorsthat can make usage as a nerve-wracking experience.
One of thoseerrorcomes in many variations with the same result: something keeps you from copying thefilein the Windows system surroundings.
In order to address this, we enlisted a few solutions. So if you’re unable to copy-paste afileor a folder inWindows 10, make sure to gradually progress through the list.
How do I fix the file copying unexpected error?
1. Use a third-party archive utility
Now, even thoughFile Explorerallowsusersto access certain archived/zippedfiles, it’s still a niche where third-partyarchivers are a better choice.
If an archivedfileis encrypted,Windows-ownFile Explorerwill have a hard time recognizing it and it won’t be able to copy it fromlocationA tolocationB.
What you’ll need to do is extract the individualfilesfrom the archive and copy them to the desiredlocationafterward.
There are fewtoolsfor the job, but the best is by farWinZip. After you download and install this excellent tool, unarchiving the file is just 2 clicks away.
”WinZip””WinZip”Free&aff_sub2=Native” current_url=”true” button_text=”Get it now” image=”https://windowsreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/WinZip-button-210×160.png”]
”WinZip”
2. Make sure that the file format is supported
Firstly, even thoughWindows shellsupports an abundance of differentfile formats, it can have a hard time with the cross-systemfileswhich come fromLinux.
So, one thing totakeinto consideration is double-checking the fileextensions.
If you‘recopying a folder which contains a non-NTFSfile, the system won’t be able to recognize it. Thus, anerrorin theprocesswill occur.
What you can do is, incaseyou have adual–bootoption, to transfer thefilewithin theLinuxsystem and then access and copy thefilewithin theWindowsshell.
3. Scan for HDD errors
4. Make sure you have the required permission
5. Run SFC and DISM
Note:If you still find this too complicated, read thiscomplete guideon how to use System File Checker.
That should do it. In case theerrorpersists, we recommend Recovery options or clean reinstallation.
6. Scan for malware
Windows Defender is a very good Windows 10 built-in feature, but it is not always as quick and accurate as other third-party antivirus software.
We recommend you install aWindows 10 compatible antivirusto keep your device fully protected.
If this issue is caused by a malware infection, a powerful antivirus should be able to locate the infection and remove it before it causes other errors or damage to your system.
Look for an antivirus with anti-phishing, anti-fraud, advanced threat defense, and web attack prevention features.
Also, make sure to post your questions or alternative solutions in the comments section below. We’ll be glad to hear from you.
More about the topics:error,files,windows 10
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
Aleksandar’s main passion is technology. With a solid writing background, he is determined to bring the bleeding edge to the common user. With a keen eye, he always spots the next big thing surrounding Microsoft and the Windows OS.
Focused on Windows errors and how to solve them, he also writes about the OS’s latest features as well as its interface.
In his free time, he likes to read, listen to music, and enjoy the nature. Hiking is one of his newly found passions.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Aleksandar Ognjanovic
