We live in a digital world where our devices are like our trusty sidekicks, helping us accomplish tasks efficiently. However, even the most advanced systems can hit a bump in the road from time to time, right?
One such annoying obstacle is the “Device is unreachable” error on Windows. This error can be frustrating, as it prevents you from accessing or transferring files to external devices like USB drives or external hard disks. Fortunately, there are effective solutions available to tackle this issue and regain control over your device.
In this blog post, we will explore the causes behind the error code 0x80070141 on Windows 11 and provide step-by-step instructions to fix it.
What Triggers the Device is Unreachable Error on Windows?
Understanding the underlying causes is crucial to effectively troubleshooting and resolving the issue. Here are some common triggers for this frustrating error:
- Network connectivity issues.
- Outdated or corrupt device drivers.
- Incompatible file system.
- Hardware malfunction.
- Power supply issues.
- Incompatible Windows update.
Also Read: 6 Ways To Fix “A Device Which Does Not Exist Was Specified” Error
How to Fix the Device is Unreachable Error on Windows 11?
Solution 1: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
When facing the “Device is Unreachable” error on Windows 11, it’s always a good idea to start with the built-in troubleshooters. These tools are designed to automatically detect and fix common hardware and device-related issues.
Follow the steps below to run the hardware and device troubleshooter:
Tap on the search icon placed on the Taskbar and type “Command Prompt” and select the “Run as administrator” option.
In the Terminal window, type the following command and hit Enter to execute it:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
The hardware and devices troubleshooter window will now appear on the screen. Hit on the “Next” button.
Tap on the “Apply this fix” button and follow the on-screen instructions to run the troubleshooter.
Solution 2: Switch to an Alternative USB Port
If you’re encountering the “Device is Unreachable” error on Windows 11, one possible solution is to switch to a different USB port. Sometimes, the port you are using may be experiencing a temporary glitch or hardware issue.
By switching to a different USB port, you can eliminate the possibility of a faulty or malfunctioning port causing the error. If this solution resolves the issue, great! However, if the error persists, there are more troubleshooting steps to try. Read on!
Also Read: 7 Ways to Fix Problem Ejecting USB Mass Storage Device
Solution 3: Rename File Titles
In some cases, the “Device is Unreachable” error on Windows 11 may be triggered by certain characters or symbols in the file titles. To rule out this possibility and ensure smooth communication between your system and external devices, try renaming the file titles using the following steps:
Step 1: Locate the files that you intend to transfer to the external device or the files already present on the device.
Step 2: Right-click on the file and select the “Rename” option from the context menu. Alternatively, you can select the file and press the F2 key on your keyboard.
Step 3: Ensure that the newfile name doesn’t contain any special characters, symbols, or spaces. Stick to using alphanumeric characters and underscores if necessary.
Step 4: Repeat this process for all files that you plan to transfer or those already on the external device.
Check if this hack helps in resolving the issue!
Solution 4: Reinstall the External Device
If the previous solutions haven’t resolved the “Device is Unreachable” error on Windows 11, reinstalling the external device might do the trick. Reinstalling the device essentially refreshes its connection with your system and resolves any potential conflicts.
Here’s how you can reinstall the external device:
Step 1: Disconnect the external device from your computer.
Step 2: Press the Win + R key combination to open the Run dialog box. Type “Devmgmt.msc” and hit Enter.
Step 3: In the Device Manager window, locate the category related to the external device. It may be listed under “Disk drives” or “Universal Serial Bus controllers”.
Step 4: Right-click on the device and select “Uninstall device” from the context menu. Confirm any prompts that appear.
Step 5: Once the device is uninstalled, restart your computer. This ensures that any remaining traces of the device’s drivers are cleared from the system.
Step 6: After your computer has restarted, connect the external device again. Windows will automatically detect and reinstall the necessary drivers for the device.
Once the process is completed, reboot your device and check if you are still encountering the error code 0x80070141 on your Windows PC.
Also Read: Solutions: Cannot Open External Hard Drive and Files/Folders
Solution 5: Update Windows
Updating your Windows 11 operating system can often fix the “Device is Unreachable” error. Microsoft regularly releases updates that address bugs, improve system stability, and enhance compatibility with external devices. To update your Windows 11, follow these steps:
Step 1: Open the Settings app.
Step 2: Go to “Windows Update.
Step 3: Click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
Step 4: Restart your computer.
Step 5: Reconnect the external device and check if the error is resolved.
Updating Windows ensures you have the latest fixes and improvements that can resolve compatibility issues causing the error.
Conclusion
The “Device is Unreachable” error code 0x80070141 on Windows 11 can be a frustrating hurdle when trying to access or transfer files to external devices. By applying these solutions and following the steps outlined, you can significantly increase your chances of resolving the error and regaining seamless access to your external devices on Windows 11.
We hope this blog has helped troubleshoot the error and empower you to take control of your Windows 11 system. Follow us on social media – Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.