An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file

by 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... read more

Updated on July 5, 2022

  • Something is keeping you from copying a file in the Windows system surroundings and this error is annoying, to say the least.
  • If you're unable to copy-paste a file or a folder in Windows 10, follow our list of solutions below.
  • If you have any other issues, you will most likely find a solution in our Tech Troubleshooting section.
  • Our Windows 10 Hub is the most comprehensive collection of articles you will ever find on this popular OS.

An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file

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There are books written about troubleshooting Windows 10 issues. However, there are rare and peculiar errors that can make usage as a nerve-wracking experience.

One of those error comes in many variations with the same result: something keeps you from copying the file in the Windows system surroundings.

In order to address this, we enlisted a few solutions. So if you’re unable to copy-paste a file or a folder in Windows 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
  2. Make sure that the file format is supported
  3. Scan for HDD errors
  4. Make sure you have the required permission
  5. Run SFC and DISM
  6. Scan for malware

1. Use a third-party archive utility

Now, even though File Explorer allows users to access certain archived/zipped files, it’s still a niche where third-party archivers are a better choice.

If an archived file is encrypted, Windows-own File Explorer will have a hard time recognizing it and it won’t be able to copy it from location A to location B.

What you’ll need to do is extract the individual files from the archive and copy them to the desired location afterward.

There are few tools for the job, but the best is by far WinZip. After you download and install this excellent tool, unarchiving the file is just 2 clicks away.

An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file

WinZip

WinZip will help you solve the file copying problem in no time. It's the best archiving tool on the market after all!

2. Make sure that the file format is supported

Firstly, even though Windows shell supports an abundance of different file formats, it can have a hard time with the cross-system files which come from Linux.

So, one thing to take into consideration is double-checking the file extensions.

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If you‘re copying a folder which contains a non-NTFS file, the system won’t be able to recognize it. Thus, an error in the process will occur.

What you can do is, in case you have a dualboot option, to transfer the file within the Linux system and then access and copy the file within the Windows shell.

3. Scan for HDD errors

  1. Right-click Start and open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. In the command-line, type the following line and press Enter: chkdsk /f C:
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  3. After the HDD is scanned for errors, restart your PC.
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4. Make sure you have the required permission

  1. Navigate to the affected file or folder, right-click on it and open Properties.
  2. Choose the Security tab and then click Advanced.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  3. Under Owner, click Change.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  4. When a new dialog box pop-ups, click Advanced.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  5. Click Find now and select your Microsoft account from the bottom list.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  6. Confirm changes and try moving/copying file or folder again.

5. Run SFC and DISM

SFC scan

  1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  2. In the command line, type sfc/ scannow and press Enter.
    An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
  3. Wait until the procedure ends.

Note: If you still find this too complicated, read this complete guide on how to use System File Checker.

DISM

  1. Open Command Prompt with administrative permissions.
  2. In the command line, type the following commands and press Enter after each:
    • DISM /online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
      An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
    • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  3. Let the procedure finalize (it can take some time) and look for changes.

That should do it. In case the error persists, 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 a Windows 10 compatible antivirus to 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.

An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file
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An unexpected error is keeping you from copying this file

Newsletter

How do you fix an unexpected error is keeping you from copying?

How do I fix the file copying unexpected error?.
Use a third-party archive utility..
Make sure that the file format is supported..
Scan for HDD errors..
Make sure you have the required permission..
Run SFC and DISM..
Scan for malware..

What is error code 0x80004005?

This problem may occur if a file that the Windows Product Activation (WPA) requires is damaged or missing. This behavior occurs if one or both of the following conditions are true: A third-party backup utility or an antivirus program interferes with the installation of Windows XP.

How do I fix error copying files or folders?

Format the Disk or Decrypt the Files. If you receive the unspecified error while copying files or folders because the target disk is corrupted or the file is encrypted. You can format the disk if is corrupted to have a try. While if the files are encrypted, you only need to decrypt the items.