How to fix ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows

How to fix ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows: Whenever a user encounters the “ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE” in Windows, the process of transferring or copying a file from one disc drive to another is disrupted. The occurrence of this error takes place when the system becomes aware that a file is being transferred between different storage devices. It indicates that the source and the destination are located on different devices, which is why the operation cannot be completed.

There is a possibility that this issue will have a significant impact on users, particularly when they are working on tasks that require them to routinely move files between discs. As an illustration, users who are responsible for managing large amounts of data may discover that this issue disrupts their workflow, resulting in delays and perhaps making them more frustrated. In addition, those who rely on the organisation of files over multiple drives may find it challenging to maintain a data management system that is both efficient and effective.

It is possible for Windows to impose a restriction on direct transfers between different storage devices for a variety of reasons, including the possibility of conflicts in file structures, permissions, or hardware settings. This restriction can lead to the “ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE” problem. Users ought to be aware of this restriction in order to prevent themselves from making futile efforts to move files across drives, which will prevent this error from occurring. Here are the ways how to fix ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows.

Causes of the ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows

1. This error message can show up when you try to move or copy files between two different file systems on different machines.
2. Drive Letter Changes: The “ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE” message can appear if the drive letter given to a storage device changes. This is especially true when using programmes or scripts that depend on specific drive letter assignments.
3. When working with external devices like USB drives, the error can happen if there are issues with the connection or if the device is not recognised properly.
4. Compressed File or Directory: This error can happen when a compressed file or directory is present on either the source or target device.
5. Access Permissions: The problem could be caused by the source or target device not having enough or the right access permissions.
6. Faulty Hardware: The mistake could be caused by problems with the hardware, like a hard drive that isn’t working right or a USB port that isn’t working right.
7. Malware or Security Software: The “ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE” problem could be caused by security software or malware on the machine that gets in the way of file operations.
8. Drivers That Are Out of Date: Device drivers that are out of date or not suitable can make it hard to move files between devices.

How to fix ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows

Update or Reinstall your Driver

1. If you got an error code from Device Manager, write down what it says so you can find the driver or part that is causing the problem.
2. You can look for Device Manager or run “devmgmt.msc” to open Device Manager.
3. Right-click on the driver that you see on the list.
4. If you want to restore the driver, click Uninstall. If you want to update it, click Update Driver Software.
5. In the window that comes up, make sure that the box that says “Delete driver software” is not checked.
6. After you click “OK,” restart your computer.

Roll Back your Driver

1. Find the driver that is giving you trouble in Device Manager.
2. Click on Properties when you right-click on the gadget.
3. Click the Driver tab in the Properties window that comes up.
4. Click the button that says “Roll Back Driver.”
5. Check that you want to roll back by clicking “Yes” when asked, “Are you sure you want to roll back to the previously installed driver software?”
6. Start your computer back up after this.

Repair reinstall using your OS CD or flash drive

1. Identify F1, F2, or Del button to access BIOS on your computer.
2. Navigate to the boot area and select the installation disc as the boot device.
3. Save your changes.
4. For older Windows versions, press keys on your keyboard as you wait for the computer to locate the installation disc.
5. Instead of a fresh OS start, utilize the repair tool initially to potentially avoid complications.
6. If issues persist, restart your computer, and if the problem persists, back up your files and perform a clean rebuild.

Repair Corrupted or Missing System Files

1. Type “command prompt” into the search box to open the elevated version of Command Prompt.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and choose “run as administrator.”
3. Type sfc /scannow at the prompt and wait until the checking process is finished.
4. Run Checkdisk. Chkdsk fixes a lot of problems with the OS. This tool can also fix errors in the system. Type it into the search box to open Command Prompt. When you see the result in the list above, right-click on it and choose, Do it as an administrator.
5. Your system may tell you that you can’t run it right now because it’s still processing data. It will then ask you if you want to run it before the next startup. Just hit “yes” to confirm, then close the window, and restart your computer.
6. After the computer restarts, checkdisk will run outside of Windows. Just wait for it to finish and give you a report of what it found, fixed, or marked.
7. Close the window and let your machine restart normally.

Use System Restore

1. Press the Start button and right-click it. Then click System.
2. When you get to the System window, click on System and Security.
3. Click System security on the left after tapping System.
4. Click System recovery.
5. Choose a recovery point.
6. Click Next until you see the Finish button.
7. Just wait for the process to finish.

Conclusion

There is a possibility that you will encounter a variety of error codes while working with computers. There is a possibility that you will receive the code ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE. This code indicates that the system is unable to transfer the file to a different disc. When you attempt to transfer or relocate a file to a separate disc drive, you will see how to fix ‘ERROR_NOT_SAME_DEVICE’ issue in Windows. It is highly recommended that you make use of a PC backup software package in order to transfer your files to a different location.

Questions and Answers