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How to Fix “Resource Protection Couldn’t Perform the Requested Operation” Error in Windows 11

If you have encountered the “Resource Protection couldn’t perform the requested operation” error in Windows 11, you are not alone. This error usually appears when running the System File Checker (SFC) tool, which is designed to scan and repair corrupted system files.

This issue can be frustrating, especially if you are trying to fix system problems or improve your PC’s performance. Fortunately, there are several straightforward ways to resolve it.

In this article, we will guide you through the simplest troubleshooting steps first, moving on to more advanced solutions if needed.

By following these instructions carefully, you can fix the error and restore your system’s health.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Make sure you have administrator rights: Running system tools like SFC requires administrative privileges.
  • Close all running programs: This ensures no programs interfere with the repair process.
  • Check your disk for errors: Sometimes disk issues cause this error.
  • Have a backup handy: It’s always wise to back up important files before attempting system repairs.

Step 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC) in Safe Mode

Safe Mode runs Windows with a minimal set of drivers and services. This reduces interference from third-party software, which often helps the SFC tool work properly.

  1. Restart your PC into Safe Mode:
    • Click Start, then select Power.
    • Hold the Shift key and click Restart.
    • In the recovery screen, choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart.
    • After restart, press 4 to enter Safe Mode.
  2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press Windows + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  3. Run the SFC command: In the Command Prompt window, type the following and press Enter: 
    sfc /scannow
  4. Wait for the scan to complete: This may take some time. If the tool finds any problems, it will try to fix them automatically.
  5. Restart your PC normally: Check if the error still appears.

Step 2: Use the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

DISM is a powerful tool that repairs the Windows image, which helps SFC work correctly. Running DISM before SFC often resolves issues causing the error.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator as explained in Step 1.
  2. Run the following commands one by one: 
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. These commands:
    • CheckHealth – Quickly checks for corruption.
    • ScanHealth – Deeper scan for issues.
    • RestoreHealth – Repairs corrupt files.
  4. Wait for each command to finish before running the next.
  5. Once completed, run the SFC scan again: 
    sfc /scannow
  6. Restart your system: This helps apply any repairs made.

Step 3: Check the Disk for Errors

Disk errors can cause system file issues and prevent the SFC tool from completing its job.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: 
    chkdsk /f /r
  3. You will be asked if you want to schedule the check on next restart: Type Y and hit Enter.
  4. Restart your PC: The disk check will run automatically and fix errors if found.

Step 4: Reset Windows Update Components

Sometimes corrupted Windows Update files interfere with system repairs. Resetting these components can help.

  1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
  2. Stop update services by running these commands one by one: 
    net stop wuauserv
net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver
  3. Rename the SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders to reset update cache: 
    ren C:WindowsSoftwareDistribution SoftwareDistribution.old
ren C:WindowsSystem32catroot2 Catroot2.old
  4. Restart the services you stopped: 
    net start wuauserv
net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver
  5. Run the SFC scan again: 
    sfc /scannow

Alternative Method: Use System Restore

If the error started recently, restoring your system to an earlier point might fix the problem without complex repairs.

  1. Search for and open Create a restore point from the Start menu.
  2. Click on System Restore.
  3. Follow the wizard to choose a restore point: Pick a date before the error appeared.
  4. Complete the restore process and restart your PC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the “Resource Protection couldn’t perform the requested operation” error?

This error usually occurs due to corrupted system files, disk errors, or conflicts caused by running programs or malware.

Can I run SFC without administrator rights?

No. SFC requires administrator privileges to scan and repair protected system files.

Will running DISM delete my personal files?

No, DISM repairs the Windows image but does not affect your personal files or installed applications.

How long does the SFC scan take?

The scan typically takes 10 to 30 minutes, depending on your system speed and disk size.

Is Safe Mode necessary to fix this error?

Safe Mode reduces interference from third-party programs and drivers that might block SFC from completing repairs.

What if SFC still fails after these steps?

Advanced repairs like an in-place Windows repair or clean installation might be needed. Always back up your data before proceeding.

When Nothing Works

If none of the above solutions fix the error, consider these final options:

  • Run an in-place upgrade repair: This reinstalls Windows without deleting your files or apps. You can do this by downloading the Windows 11 ISO from the official Microsoft website and running the setup file.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Official support can provide personalized help for difficult issues.
  • Seek professional help: A certified technician can diagnose and fix hardware-related problems that may cause system file errors.

Conclusion

The “Resource Protection couldn’t perform the requested operation” error can disrupt your attempts to maintain a healthy Windows 11 system. By starting with basic checks like running SFC in Safe Mode and progressing through DISM repairs, disk checks, and Windows Update resets, you can resolve most causes of this problem.

Remember, each step plays a specific role: Safe Mode minimizes interference, DISM repairs the system image, and disk checks fix underlying storage issues. If all else fails, system restore or an in-place upgrade can refresh your Windows installation without data loss.

With patience and careful following of these instructions, you should be able to fix the error and keep your PC running smoothly.

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