Microsoft Windows Error Code 0x81000037: How to Fix It

Medium 45-90 minutes High Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
0x81000037
Brand
Microsoft Windows
Product Type
operating_system
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
45-90 minutes
Error code 0x81000037 means Windows Backup failed because it could not read data from the Volume Shadow Copy (VSS) on your source drive. This typically happens when the VSS service is stopped, corrupted, or when there is not enough disk space to create a shadow copy snapshot. Until this is resolved, Windows Backup will be unable to complete, leaving your files unprotected.
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How to Fix Error Code 0x81000037

  1. Check Available Disk Space on the Source Drive

    Do not delete files you are unsure about. Only remove temporary files, cached data, and items in the Recycle Bin.

  2. Restart the Volume Shadow Copy Service

  3. Run the System File Checker (SFC) to Repair Corrupted Files

    Do not close the Command Prompt window while the scan is running or it may leave system files in a partially repaired state.

  4. Run DISM to Repair the Windows Component Store

    Ensure your computer stays connected to the internet and does not go to sleep during the DISM repair process.

  5. Delete Old VSS Shadow Copies and Reset VSS Writers

    Deleting shadow copies will remove existing System Restore points. Consider noting your current restore points beforehand if you rely on them.

  6. Check the Source Drive for Disk Errors

    Back up any critical files to an external drive or cloud storage before running chkdsk, especially if you suspect the drive may be failing.

  7. Verify Windows Backup Settings and Retry

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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after all steps above — especially after chkdsk reports unrecoverable errors or your drive begins making clicking or grinding sounds — the source hard drive may be physically failing. In this case, stop using the drive immediately and contact a professional data recovery service to retrieve your files before the drive fails completely. If your system becomes unstable or will not boot after these repairs, contact a certified PC technician. Additionally, if your system is under warranty, contact Microsoft Support or your device manufacturer before performing any advanced repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Windows Backup error code 0x81000037?
Error 0x81000037 is caused by a failure in the Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS), which Windows Backup relies on to take a snapshot of your drive while files are in use. Common causes include the VSS service being stopped or disabled, insufficient free disk space on the source drive, corrupted system files, a damaged file system on the source drive, or stale shadow copy entries blocking new ones from being created.
Will fixing error 0x81000037 delete my files?
The repair steps themselves will not delete your personal files. However, deleting old VSS shadow copies (Step 5) will remove existing System Restore points. The chkdsk scan (Step 6) may remove corrupted file fragments but will not delete intact files. As a precaution, always copy your most important files to an external drive or cloud storage before performing any system repairs.
How do I know if my hard drive is causing error 0x81000037?
Run chkdsk as described in Step 6. If it reports a large number of bad sectors or cannot complete the scan, your drive hardware may be failing. Other warning signs include the drive making unusual noises, Windows taking unusually long to boot or open files, frequent crashes, and other unrelated errors appearing alongside 0x81000037. If you suspect hardware failure, back up your data immediately and consult a technician.
Can I use a third-party backup tool instead to avoid this error?
Yes. If Windows Backup continues to fail, you can use third-party backup software such as Macrium Reflect Free, EaseUS Todo Backup, or Veeam Agent for Windows. Many of these tools have their own VSS implementation or alternative snapshot methods that may succeed even when Windows Backup cannot. However, it is still recommended to fix the underlying VSS issue so that system-level functions like System Restore continue to work correctly.
Does error 0x81000037 mean my backup destination drive is full?
Not necessarily. Error 0x81000037 specifically refers to a problem reading from the source volume (the drive being backed up), not the destination. If your backup destination drive is full, you would typically see a different error. That said, it is worth confirming both the source and destination drives have adequate free space as a general troubleshooting step.

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