How to Fix ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE on Windows 10/11?

Error 17 ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE

While processing computers, you are likely to get various error codes. ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE is one of the codes that you might receive and it is described as the system cannot move the file to a different disk. The elements that trigger this error include:

• Malware or virus infection.
• System file corruption.
• Conflicted programs.
• Damaged or corrupted files and folders.

If you are in the same boat, take it easy! Try the solutions below in sequence until the problem gets fixed.

Suggestion: Transfer Your Files with MiniTool ShadowMaker

ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE appears while trying to transfer or move a file to a different disk drive. To transfer your files to another location, it is highly recommended to try a PC backup software called MiniTool ShadowMaker.

This tool gained reputation among Windows users for its convenience and ease. It is compatible with almost all Windows systems and supports file backup, system backup, partition backup, and disk backup. Also, it allows you to sync files and clone disks. Now, follow the steps below to transfer your files with it:

Step 1. Launch MiniTool ShadowMaker and enter the main interface.

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Step 2. In the Sync page, hit SOURCE and then you can select the files & folders you want to transfer.

Step 3. Click on DESTINATION to select an external hard drive or USB flash disk as the storage path.

Step 4. Click on Sync Now to start the process at once.

How to Fix the System Cannot Move the File to a Different Disk?

Fix 1: Perform A Full Scan

Malware and virus infection can trigger all kinds of issues like ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE. If this is the case, you can perform a deep scan with Windows Defender

Step 1. Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.

Step 2. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options.

Step 3. Tick Full scan and hit Scan now to start the process.

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Fix 2: Update Windows

Microsoft constantly rolls out Windows updates to improve the system’s performance and stability. What’s more, these updates can also fix some known problems including ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE. Therefore, you need to update your OS to the latest version in time. Follow these steps:

Step 1. Go to Windows Settings > Update & Security.

Step 2. In the Windows Update section, click on Check for updates.

Fix 3: Uninstall Recently Installed Program

If you receive ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE after installing a program, then uninstalling it might be an effective solution. To do so:

Step 1. Open Control Panel.

Step 2. Under Programs, click on Uninstall a program.

Step 3. In the list, find the recently installed app and right-click on it to choose Uninstall.

Step 4. Confirm the action and follow the uninstallation wizard to complete the process.

Fix 4: Check Disk for Errors

It is a good option to utilize CHKDSK to check the disk for errors and then fix them. To do so:

Step 1. Run Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2. In the command window, type chkdsk c: /f and hit Enter.

Fix 5: Run System File Checker

You can utilize System File Checker to check for system file corruption. To do so:

Step 1. Run an elevated Command Prompt.

Step 2. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and hit Enter.

Step 3. Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer.

Final Words

All in all, this guide illustrates what should you do when encountering ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE and recommends a free tool called MiniTool ShadowMaker to transfer your files to a hard drive. For any queries about MiniTool Software, feel free to contact us via [email protected].