Blog

How to Fix “Cannot Run Disk Checking Volume Because Write-Protected” Error in Windows 11

If you encounter the error message “Cannot run disk checking volume because write-protected” on your Windows 11 PC, it can be frustrating. This error usually means that Windows cannot make changes to the disk because it is set to read-only mode. When a disk is write-protected, you cannot modify, delete, or scan it using tools like CHKDSK.

Fortunately, there are several simple ways to fix this issue. Most solutions involve disabling the write protection so that Windows can access the disk fully. You don’t need to be an expert to follow these steps, as they are explained clearly and carefully.

This guide will walk you through the easiest methods first, moving on to more advanced options if needed. By the end, you should be able to fix the error and run disk checking without problems.

Let’s get started with some quick checks before diving into the fixes.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

  • Check the disk type: Is it an external USB drive, SD card, or internal hard drive? This can affect the solution.
  • Backup important data: Before making system changes, always back up your files to prevent data loss.
  • Check physical write-protection switch: Some USB drives and SD cards have a physical switch. Make sure it is not set to “Lock” or “Write Protect.”
  • Run Command Prompt as Administrator: Many fixes require administrative privileges to make changes.

Step 1: Remove Write Protection Using Diskpart

This is the most common and effective way to remove write protection from a disk using built-in Windows tools. Diskpart is a command-line utility that manages disks and partitions.

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.

  2. In the Command Prompt window, type diskpart and press Enter. This will open the Diskpart tool.

  3. Next, type list disk and press Enter. This command shows all connected disks.

  4. Identify your write-protected disk by its size. Then type select disk X (replace X with the disk number) and press Enter.

  5. To remove the write protection, type attributes disk clear readonly and press Enter.

  6. Wait for the confirmation message. Once done, type exit to leave Diskpart, then close Command Prompt.

  7. Try running the disk check again to see if the error is resolved.

Why this works: This method directly clears the “readonly” attribute on the disk, allowing Windows to write and modify the disk as needed.

Step 2: Check and Change Registry Settings

If the disk is still write-protected, it might be due to a registry setting that blocks write access to removable drives. Modifying the registry can help fix this.

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter to open the Registry Editor. You might need to allow administrator permission.

  2. Navigate to the following path:

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlStorageDevicePolicies

  3. If you don’t see StorageDevicePolicies, you will need to create it:

    • Right-click on Control, select New > Key, and name it StorageDevicePolicies.

  4. Inside StorageDevicePolicies, look for a value called WriteProtect. If it doesn’t exist, create it:

    • Right-click in the right pane, select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value, and name it WriteProtect.

  5. Double-click WriteProtect and set its value to 0. This disables write protection.

  6. Close Registry Editor and restart your computer.

  7. After reboot, try running CHKDSK again.

Why this matters: The registry can enforce write protection on removable drives. Changing this value lets Windows write to the disk again.

Step 3: Disable Write Protection via Group Policy (For Pro/Enterprise Editions)

If you are using Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise, you can use Group Policy Editor to disable write protection on removable disks.

  1. Press Windows + R, type gpedit.msc, and press Enter.

  2. In the Group Policy Editor, navigate to:

    Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > System > Removable Storage Access

  3. Find the policy named Removable Disks: Deny write access.

  4. Double-click it and set it to Disabled.

  5. Click Apply and OK, then close the Group Policy Editor.

  6. Restart your PC and try running CHKDSK again.

Note: This method only works on Windows editions that include Group Policy Editor.

Step 4: Check Physical Write Protection Switch and USB Ports

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a physical switch or hardware problem.

  • Physical Switch: Many USB flash drives and SD cards have a small switch that toggles write protection. Locate this switch and make sure it is set to allow writing.
  • Try Different USB Ports: Connect the device to a different USB port or another computer to rule out port-specific issues.
  • Use Another Cable or Adapter: Faulty cables or adapters can cause write protection errors.

Alternative Method: Formatting the Drive (Last Resort)

If none of the above methods work, formatting the disk can remove write protection by wiping all data and resetting file system attributes.

Warning: Formatting erases all data on the disk. Make sure to back up important files before proceeding.

  1. Open File Explorer, right-click the write-protected drive, and select Format.
  2. Choose the file system (NTFS or FAT32) and uncheck Quick Format for a thorough format.
  3. Click Start and wait for the process to complete.
  4. After formatting, try running CHKDSK again if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why does Windows say my disk is write-protected?

A: Write protection can be enabled by hardware switches, system settings, or registry policies to prevent accidental changes. It blocks write access to protect your data or device.

Q2: Can viruses cause write protection errors?

A: Yes, some malware can modify system settings to make disks read-only. Running a full antivirus scan is recommended if you suspect this.

Q3: Is it safe to clear write protection with Diskpart?

A: Yes, Diskpart is a built-in Windows tool designed for disk management. Just be careful to select the correct disk to avoid accidental data loss.

Q4: Will formatting fix write protection?

A: Formatting usually removes write protection but also deletes all data. Use it only if other methods fail and you have backups.

Q5: How do I know if my USB drive has a physical write protection switch?

A: Inspect the sides of your USB device or SD card for a small sliding switch. If present, toggling it can enable or disable write protection.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the above methods and still cannot remove the write protection, the disk may be damaged or permanently locked by the manufacturer.

Here are your final options:

  • Contact the device manufacturer’s support for specific tools or firmware updates.
  • Use third-party disk management software that may be able to override write protection.
  • Consider replacing the disk if it is physically damaged or corrupted.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for more detailed troubleshooting: Microsoft Support.

Conclusion

The “Cannot run disk checking volume because write-protected” error can usually be fixed by removing the write protection setting on your disk. Starting with simple checks like physical switches and Diskpart commands often resolves the problem quickly.

When necessary, editing registry settings or using Group Policy can help in more stubborn cases. Always remember to back up your data before making changes, especially if formatting is involved.

By following this step-by-step guide, you should be able to fix the error and successfully run disk checks on your Windows 11 PC. Taking these precautions ensures your disks remain healthy and accessible.

Leave a Reply