How to Fix the 0x8007045d Error in Windows

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When Windows is unable to access a file, the 0x8007045d error message might show up on your PC. There are several causes behind this error, which we look at briefly in this tutorial while focusing on how to fix it.

Tip: enhance your PC’s performance and battery life with Efficiency mode in Windows 11.

Content

What Is the 0x8007045d Error and Why Does it Occur?

This error tends to appear when trying to copy or delete files from an external source such as a flash drive or CD/DVD to your computer. Alternatively, you may be trying to install an app. When this problem occurs, you will get a dialog box that says:

  • “Error 0x08007045d: The request could not be performed because of an I/O device error (0x8007045d) Please rerun the backup once the issue is resolved.”
  • “Windows cannot install the required files. Make sure all files required for installation are available and restart the installation. Error code: 0x8007045d.”

This issue typically manifests when your computer has difficulty locating or reading specific files. It usually appears following a program or OS update. At the same time, this problem can also be caused by corruption of the Windows registry, system or application files, file downloads, memory modules, or storage devices (external hard drive, USB drive, CD, or DVD).

Preliminary Fixes

Many issues can be easily resolved by upgrading to the most recent version of Windows. Installing the most recent Windows update has the potential to resolve the 0x8007045d error message, so make sure you do that before proceeding to the next fixes.

You should also restart your PC before going forward. Often, all it takes to resolve a minor system problem is a good old system reboot.

1. Download the Affected Files Again

If the 0x8007045d error message popped up as you’re attempting to open a downloaded file, it’s possible that something went wrong during the download, leaving you with a corrupted or incomplete file.

In this case, you may want to remove the partial files from your computer and download them again from the source before trying to install or copy them again. Comparing the downloaded file size with the size on the official website is a quick and simple way to ensure that the file on your PC is complete.

Tip: having troubles exiting an app in Windows? Learn how to force-quit a program.

2. Run the Hardware and Devices Windows Troubleshooter

You can utilize the built-in Hardware and Devices troubleshooter to assist you in repairing Windows, as the problem could have been caused by external hardware.

  1. Type cmd into the Start menu’s search field and select the appropriate result.

  1. Enter the following command into the Command Prompt and hit Enter.
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic

  1. The Devices and Hardware troubleshooter window will open.
  1. Click the “Next” button.

  1. Allow the troubleshooter to scan for issues. If it finds one, it will offer an option to “Apply this fix.”

3. Check for Driver Errors

Driver issues are rather prevalent on Windows. As a result, the 0x8007045d error is more likely to occur if your CD, DVD, or USB driver is damaged. But the issue can be resolved by using a built-in utility.

  1. Type “Device Manager” into the search box on the Start menu and choose the right result.

  1. Access the DVD/USB driver by right-clicking on it.

  1. To begin updating the drivers, click the “Update Driver” button

  1. The upgrade wizard will launch. If the drivers were the issue, you should no longer receive the error message. The alternative method is to locate the driver’s manufacturer and download the drivers from its website.

4. Use an Alternate USB Slot

The 0x8007045d issue can be caused by a poorly mounted USB stick or CD/DVD drive. You can try to unplug the external storage from your computer, reconnect it, and check to see whether it still works.

Ensure that it is securely inserted into the USB port. You can either remove it or place it in another slot.

Good to know: find out how to encrypt your USB drive and keep all your information safe.

5. Repair Registry Editor

The Windows Registry is a core database that maintains all of the system’s configuration settings, user preferences, file properties, and other critical data. You might receive multiple error messages if something goes wrong with it, including the pesky 0x8007045d. By running a scan in Registry Editor using the built-in Disk Cleanup utility, you can find any problems in your computer’s registry.

It is strongly advised that you back up your registry before performing the scan. You can use the backup to restore the registry to its previous state if something goes wrong.

  1. Press the Windows + R keys to bring up the Run window.
  1. After typing cleanmgr into the box, press the Enter key.

  1. Make sure that (C:) is selected as the drive, then click the “OK” button.
  1. Click the “Clean up system files” button.

  1. Disk Cleanup will now restart.
  1. Let the software finish its system scan.

  1. To remove the indicated files, press “OK.”

6. Clean Your CD/DVD

Grimy fingerprints on the disk can be another reason you’re getting the 0x8007045d error. If your disk isn’t clean, your computer’s disk drive may have difficulty reading the data on it. After thoroughly cleaning the disk, try reading it again.

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The error message can also appear if your CD or DVD suffers from damage, such as cracks or scratches. For shallow scratches, you can try to fix those using a repair software such as CD Repair Toolbox.

There’s also the toothpaste method, which involves putting regular toothpaste on the CD’s shiny side, where the scratches are the most obvious. You’ll need to distribute the toothpaste evenly with your finger or a microfiber cloth. Next, clean the disc with a different and wet microfiber cloth. Finally dry the CD using a dry microfiber cloth in a circular motion.

If these methods fail, you can try getting your CD/DVD fixed by a professional at a repair shop.

Tip: does Windows Defender remove the need to install an antivirus program on your PC? Find out here.

7. Disable Antivirus Program and Firewall

Antivirus programs are known to interfere with installations and updates. If you have an antivirus of firewall on your PC, it might be the reason you’re getting the error.

To turn off your antivirus software, change the settings of the program. You can also quickly disable the firewall.

  1. Go to the Control Panel and click on “System and Security.”

  1. Click on “Windows Defender Firewall.”

  1. Select “Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off” on the left.

  1. In the “Private network settings” section, check the “Turn off Windows Defender Firewall” box and click “OK” to save the changes.

  1. After turning off your antivirus and firewall software, check to see whether you can update or install programs.

8. Boot PC in Safe Mode

If the error appears when you’re trying to delete a file or folder, try to boot into Safe Mode. You’ll be able to access Windows in a minimal configuration, without much going on in the background.

  1. You must first log in as an administrator on your PC.
  1. Click the Search button, type msconfig and press the Enter key.

  1. In the Systems Configuration menu, select the “Boot” tab, then tick the “Safe Boot” option at the bottom.

  1. After you’ve selected “Minimal,” click “OK” to save your changes.

  1. On the pop-up box that appears, click the “Restart” button to force a reboot.

Tip: if your computer won’t go to sleep as instructed, learn what you can do.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent error 0x8007045d from reocurring?

To ensure the 0x8007045d error doesn’t keep recurring, make it a point to routinely back up your data and keep your operating system up-to-date.

Is it safe to use a third-party cleaning software?

Third-party cleaning tools can be a solution for cleaning up data on your PC, provided they are offered by reputable developers. Nevertheless, Disk Cleanup is a part of Windows and can be used safely, so there’s really no need to install an entirely different program. Also, consider some other reasons using PC cleaning tools would not be a good idea.

Image credit: Pixabay. All screenshots by Folami Oluwatokiloba.

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Oluwatokiloba Folami

Oluwatokiloba is a skilled writer and editor who is goal-oriented and innovative. Seeing how far he can go to find new, creative ways to address problems motivates and fascinates him. He likes to workout and listen to music when he is not tinkering.

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