Causes & Solutions: Windows Backup 0x81000019 Error Code

If you meet the backup error code 0x81000019 when creating a backup, don’t worry. Let's dive into its causes and the most effective fixes to solve the problem.

Rosie

By Rosie Updated on November 13, 2024

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“I am trying to backup a new Win10 install from an in place Win7 upgrade and getting error "Windows Backup Error 0x81000019, A shadow copy could not be created". Please help! ”

– Anonymous user

When using Windows Backup to protect your important files, encountering the backup error code 0x81000019 can be frustrating. This error usually occurs during the backup process, preventing you from creating a successful backup of your system and files. Whether you’re trying to secure your data for recovery or simply to keep your system safe, this error can disrupt your efforts.

In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of the Windows Backup 0x81000019 error code and provide practical solutions to resolve it. Additionally, we'll discuss an excellent alternative to Windows Backup that can offer a more reliable solution for your backup needs.

Wndows Backup 0x81000019

Causes of Windows Backup 0x81000019 Error Code

The 0x81000019 error code typically appears when there are issues with the Windows Backup process that prevent it from completing successfully. Below are some of the most common causes for this error:

Corrupted System Files: If your Windows system files are corrupted or damaged, it can interfere with the backup process. System file corruption can happen due to improper shutdowns, malware infections, or software conflicts.

Insufficient Disk Space: Windows Backup requires sufficient disk space on the target drive to store backup data. If the destination drive is nearly full, the backup process may fail, triggering the 0x81000019 error code.

Faulty or Unstable Backup Drive: If you're backing up to an external drive, issues with the drive itself can cause problems. A failing or unstable drive may not be able to handle the backup process, leading to errors like 0x81000019.

Windows Update Problems: Outdated or missing system updates can sometimes cause conflicts with backup operations. Windows relies on certain updates to function properly, and without these updates, backup processes may fail.

Conflicting Backup Software: If you have third-party backup software installed, it can sometimes conflict with the native Windows Backup utility. This conflict may trigger error codes, including 0x81000019.

Backup Configuration Issues: Incorrect or incomplete configuration settings in Windows Backup can also result in errors. For example, if you’ve set up a scheduled backup but the settings are misconfigured, the backup might fail, triggering an error code.

Understanding the root cause of the error is essential for resolving it effectively. In the next section, we’ll explore five solutions to fix the 0x81000019 error code and get your Windows Backup working again.

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5 Solutions to Fix Windows Backup 0x81000019 Error Code

If you're facing the Windows Backup error 0x81000019 while trying to perform a Windows backup, there are several targeted solutions you can try to resolve the issue. Below are five effective fixes to help you get your backup process back on track:

1. Delete Temporary Files on Windows

Temporary files can accumulate on your system over time and take up valuable disk space, potentially interfering with the backup process. Clearing these files can free up space and eliminate any file conflicts that might be causing the 0x81000019 error.

To delete temporary files:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
  2. Type %temp% and press Enter.
  3. Select all files in the folder (press Ctrl + A) and delete them.
  4. Repeat the process by typing temp and pressing Enter again. Delete any files that appear here as well.

After clearing the temporary files, try running your backup again to see if the issue is resolved.

2. Remove Useless Restore Points

System restore points are useful for recovering your system to an earlier state, but over time, they can take up significant disk space and potentially cause conflicts with backup operations. Removing old or unnecessary restore points can help resolve backup errors like 0x81000019.

To delete restore points:

  1. Press Windows + S, type Create a restore point and select the option that appears.
  2. In the System Properties window, click the System Protection tab.
  3. Select the C: Drive (or the drive where your system is installed) and click Configure.
  4. In the next window, click on Delete to remove old restore points that are no longer necessary.
  5. Confirm your action and click OK.

Delete Restore Points

Once you’ve cleared out unnecessary restore points, try running your backup again.

3. Delete Unnecessary Language Packs

Sometimes, unnecessary language packs installed on your system can contribute to the 0x81000019 error. These packs can take up space and cause issues during the backup process, particularly if the backup destination is already low on storage. Removing unused language packs can help resolve the problem.

  1. To remove unwanted language packs:
  2. Open Settings and go to Time & Language.
  3. Click on Language in the left-hand menu.
  4. Under Preferred Languages, find any language packs you no longer need and click on them.
  5. Select Remove to uninstall the language pack.

Remove Unwanted Language Packs

Afterward, try to initiate the backup again and check if the error persists.

4. Check the Status of VSS and SPP Services

The VSS (Volume Shadow Copy Service) and SPP (Software Protection Platform) are crucial services for system backup and restoration. If either of these services isn’t running properly, it can prevent backups from completing successfully, resulting in the 0x81000019 error.

To check and restart these services:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. In the Services window, locate Volume Shadow Copy and Software Protection.
  3. Right-click on each service and select Restart.
  4. If the service is stopped, choose Start.
  5. Ensure both services are set to Automatic to prevent them from stopping unexpectedly.

Check VSS and SPP Service

After restarting these services, try running your backup again to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Disable Antivirus Software

In some cases, third-party antivirus software can interfere with the Windows Backup process, leading to errors like the shadow copy error. This is because antivirus programs often monitor system changes and can block or restrict access to files needed for backup. Disabling the antivirus software temporarily can help determine if it's causing the issue.

To temporarily disable your antivirus software:

  1. Open Windows Settings by pressing Windows + I, then click on Update & Security.
  2. In the left-hand menu, select Virus & Threat Protection.
  3. On the Virus & Threat Protection settings screen, look for the option to turn off your antivirus protection temporarily.
  4. Turn off the protection and attempt the backup again to check if the error is resolved.

Disable Antivirus Software

After completing your backup, remember to re-enable your antivirus software to ensure your system remains protected from potential threats.

These steps should help resolve the backup error Windows 0x81000019 in most cases. However, if the error persists, you may want to consider alternative backup solutions to protect your system and files.

Best Alternative to Windows Backup: AOMEI Backupper

While Windows Backup is a built-in tool that works well for basic backup needs, it’s not without its limitations. If you continue to encounter errors like 0x81000019 or need a more robust solution, AOMEI Backupper Standard is an excellent alternative.

AOMEI Backupper is a powerful and easy-to-use backup software designed for both home and business users. It provides a wide range of features, including:

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  • Diverse Backup Methods: AOMEI Backupper allows you to create full backups, incremental backups (which only save changes made since the last backup), and differential backups (which store changes since the last full backup).

  • Scheduled Backups: Set up automated backups to ensure your files are backed up regularly  without manual intervention.

  • Cloud Backup: It offers the option to back up files to cloud storage services, ensuring your data is safe even in the event of hardware failure.

  • Fast and Efficient: Works seamlessly with both internal and external drives, and the user-friendly interface makes it easy to use even for beginners.

With AOMEI Backupper, you can bypass the limitations and errors of Windows Backup while enjoying a more reliable and feature-packed backup solution.

How to Create a Backup with AOMEI Backupper

Step 1: Open the main interface of AOMEI Backupper, select "Backup" from the left menu, and then choose "File Backup" (or another backup option based on your needs).

File Backup

Step 2: Click "Add Folder" or "Add File" to select the data you want to back up.

Add Folders Files

Tip: You can select multiple files or folders at once. If you make a mistake, simply click the trash can icon next to any file or folder to remove it.

Step 3: In the second bar on the main interface, choose the destination for your backup. You can select a local drive, or a cloud drive, or even add a network share or NAS device as the backup location.

Select Destination

Step 4: Click "Start Backup" in the lower right corner to begin the backup process. Once the backup is complete, click "Finish" to exit the interface.

Start Backup

Customizing Your Backup Before starting the backup:

Options: Manage settings like backup compression, splitting, encryption, comments, and email notifications.

Schedule Backup: Set up scheduled backups (daily, weekly, monthly, or based on events like USB plug-in). Note: Event-based and USB backups are available in the Professional edition.

Backup Scheme: Choose your preferred backup method (Full, Incremental, or Differential) and enable backup cleanup to automatically delete backups that exceed your retention policy. Note: Backup cleanup requires the advanced editions.

Once your backup is complete, verify that your data has been successfully backed up to the selected destination.

Conclusion

The 0x81000019 error code in Windows Backup can be caused by a variety of factors, including corrupted system files, insufficient disk space, and software conflicts. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to fix the issue.

However, if the problem persists or if you need a more powerful backup solution, consider switching to a third-party tool like AOMEI Backupper. With its advanced features and ease of use, AOMEI Backupper can provide a more reliable and flexible backup experience, ensuring that your data remains safe and secure.

By taking the right steps to troubleshoot and resolve the error or using a more robust backup solution, you can protect your important files without the frustration of recurring backup issues.

Rosie
Rosie · Editor
Rosie is an English blog editor at AOMEI, specializing in backup solutions, Windows systems, disk cloning, and other data protection strategies. Her passion lies in creating informative content that helps users effectively address their data challenges.