Windows ERROR_17 can be a frustrating roadblock, especially when you’re in the middle of important work or trying to access critical files. This error often relates to issues with file permissions, device driver problems, or corrupt system files. But don’t worry — you’re not alone, and fixing it might be simpler than you think. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through troubleshooting and resolving Windows ERROR_17 with detailed instructions anyone can follow.
What is Windows ERROR_17?
Before diving into the fixes, it’s helpful to understand what ERROR_17 means.
- Error Code: 17
- Error Description: "ERROR_NOT_READY"
- Meaning: The device is not ready. This often happens when Windows cannot access a hardware device or a resource isn’t available at the moment.
This error commonly appears in scenarios like:
- Connecting external drives or USB devices
- Accessing network drives
- Using software that interacts with hardware components
Why Does Windows ERROR_17 Occur?
Some of the frequent causes behind this error include:
- External hard drive or USB device not properly connected or initialized
- Device drivers are outdated or corrupted
- System files or permissions causing access issues
- Disk or drive is in a faulty or unreadable state
- Network sharing or path issues
How to Fix Windows ERROR_17: Step-by-Step
Let’s break this down into straightforward steps you can follow.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Devices
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most powerful. Restarting can clear temporary glitches.
- Save your work.
- Properly eject any external devices.
- Restart your computer.
- Reconnect devices and check if the error persists.
Step 2: Check Hardware Connections
Loose or faulty hardware connections often cause ERROR_17.
- Ensure external USB drives or devices are firmly plugged in.
- Try different USB ports.
- If it’s a network device, check your network cables and connections.
Step 3: Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter
Windows has built-in troubleshooters to detect common hardware issues.
- Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
- Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Select Hardware and Devices and click Run the troubleshooter.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Device Drivers
Outdated or corrupted drivers can cause your device to be “not ready.”
- Press Windows Key + X and select Device Manager.
- Locate your device under the relevant category (e.g., Disk Drives, Universal Serial Bus controllers).
- Right-click the device and select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for updated driver software.
- If no update is found or the error persists, right-click and select Uninstall device.
- Restart your computer, which will reinstall drivers automatically.
Step 5: Check Disk Health and Repair Errors
If the device is a hard drive or external storage, corrupted files or bad sectors can trigger ERROR_17.
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
- Press Windows Key + S, type
cmd, right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- Press Windows Key + S, type
-
Run the disk check command:
chkdsk X: /f /r /x
Replace
X:with your drive letter. - Follow prompts to schedule the scan if needed, then restart your computer.
Step 6: Modify Drive or Folder Permissions
Insufficient permissions can block access to a drive or folder.
- Right-click on the drive or folder showing ERROR_17, then choose Properties.
- Go to the Security tab.
- Click Edit and make sure your user account has Full Control.
- If necessary, click Add to include your user, then assign permissions.
- Click Apply and OK.
Step 7: Disable Security Software Temporarily
Sometimes, antivirus or firewall settings mistakenly block access.
- Temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall.
- Try accessing the device or drive again.
- If it works, add the drive or program to your antivirus trusted list.
- Remember to re-enable your security software afterward to stay protected!
Step 8: Perform System File Check (SFC)
Corrupted system files can cause hardware to appear “not ready.”
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
-
Type:
sfc /scannow
- Wait for the scan to finish and follow any on-screen instructions.
- Restart your computer.
Step 9: Use System Restore
If ERROR_17 started recently, rolling back to a previous working state can help.
- Press Windows Key + R, type
rstrui, and press Enter. - Choose a restore point before the error appeared.
- Follow the wizard to restore your system.
Step 10: Seek Professional Help
If you’ve exhausted all these steps and still face ERROR_17, the issue might be hardware failure or deep system corruption. Contact a professional technician or the device manufacturer’s support.
Final Thoughts
Facing the Windows ERROR_17 can feel like hitting a wall, but with patience and systematic troubleshooting, you can restore your device’s functionality. Always back up important data before making system changes, and keep your system and drivers updated for optimal performance.
If this guide helped you resolve the issue, share it with friends or colleagues who might benefit. Technology isn’t always perfect — but with a little know-how, you’ll be ready for anything!
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If you have any questions or want to share your results, feel free to comment below! I’m here to help.
