Fix Error 0x80070570: The File or Directory is Corrupted and Unreadable

Method 1: Run CHKDSK to Fix Disk Errors

CHKDSK (Check Disk) is a powerful Windows utility designed to scan storage volumes for file system errors and attempt repairs. It's often the first and most effective solution for Error 0x80070570.

Basic CHKDSK Operation

1. Run CHKDSK from Command Prompt:
   • Press Win+X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)"
   • For a basic scan without repairs, type: chkdsk X: (replace X with your drive letter)
   • For a scan with automatic repairs, type: chkdsk X: /f
   • For a thorough scan that checks for bad sectors, type: chkdsk X: /f /r
   • Press Enter to execute the command
2. Run CHKDSK on system drive:
   • If checking the system drive (usually C:), Windows cannot scan it while in use
   • You'll see a message asking to schedule the scan for the next reboot
   • Type "Y" and press Enter to schedule the scan
   • Restart your computer to allow the scan to run before Windows loads
   • The scan results will display briefly during startup
3. Run CHKDSK through File Explorer:
   • Open File Explorer (Win+E)
   • Right-click on the drive you want to check
   • Select "Properties"
   • Go to the "Tools" tab
   • Click "Check" under Error checking
   • If errors are found, click "Scan and repair drive"

Advanced CHKDSK Parameters for Stubborn Issues

For more persistent corruption problems, these advanced CHKDSK options can help:

Example for thorough repair with all options:

Interpreting CHKDSK Results

Understanding CHKDSK output helps determine if your issues have been resolved:

1. Look for these positive indicators:
   • "Windows has made corrections to the file system" - Successful repairs were made
   • "Windows has checked the file system and found no problems" - Clean scan after repairs
   • "X KB in bad sectors" (with a very small number) - Minor physical issues that were managed
2. Watch for these warning signs:
   • "Windows has scanned the file system and found problems" - Further repairs needed
   • Large numbers under "bad sectors" - Potential hardware failure
   • "Windows was unable to repair..." - Some corruption couldn't be fixed
   • Repeated inconsistencies after multiple repairs - Possible deeper issues
3. Testing after CHKDSK:
   • Try accessing the previously corrupted files
   • Attempt to copy files that previously gave Error 0x80070570
   • Restart any installation or update processes that were failing
   • If errors persist, proceed to the next method

Pros:

• Built into Windows with no additional software required
• Comprehensive file system repair capabilities
• Can fix many types of corruption automatically
• Provides detailed feedback about found and fixed issues

Cons:

• Can take a long time to complete on large drives
• May require system restart to run on boot drives
• Cannot repair physically damaged sections of drives
• Some repairs might result in data loss if corruption is severe

Method 2: Use SFC and DISM for System File Repair

When Error 0x80070570 affects Windows system files or occurs during installations, the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tools can help repair corrupted Windows components.

Running System File Checker (SFC)

1. Launch Command Prompt as Administrator:
   • Press Win+X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "PowerShell (Admin)"
   • Confirm the User Account Control prompt if it appears
2. Run the SFC command:
   • Type the following command: sfc /scannow
   • Press Enter to start the scan
   • Wait for the process to complete (typically 10-20 minutes)
   • Do not close the Command Prompt window during scanning
3. Interpret the results:
   • "Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations" - No system file corruption found
   • "Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them" - Issues fixed
   • "Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them" - Further action needed
4. Optional advanced SFC commands:
   • Verify only without repairs: sfc /verifyonly
   • Scan a specific file: sfc /scanfile=path_to_file
   • Verify a specific file: sfc /verifyfile=path_to_file
   • Check offline Windows installation: sfc /scanfile=path_to_windows_installation /offbootdir=drive_letter:\ /offwindir=path_to_windows_directory

Using DISM to Repair Windows Image

If SFC cannot fix all corruptions, DISM can repair the Windows component store:

1. Check and restore health with DISM:
   • In Administrator Command Prompt or PowerShell, run a check:
     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
   • For more detailed scanning:
     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
   • To attempt repairs:
     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   • Each command may take 10-20 minutes to complete
2. Using alternative repair sources:
   • If Windows can't download repair files automatically, specify a source:
     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:wim:path_to_install.wim:1 /LimitAccess
   • You can use Windows installation media as a source
   • The install.wim file is typically located in the "sources" folder on installation media
   • The ":1" specifies the index of the Windows edition in the WIM file
3. Rerun SFC after DISM repairs:
   • After successful DISM repair, run SFC again:
     sfc /scannow
   • SFC should now be able to repair previously unrepairable files
   • Restart the computer after all repairs are complete

When to Use SFC vs. DISM

Pros:

• Built-in Windows tools requiring no additional software
• Can repair otherwise inaccessible system files
• Preserves user data during repairs
• Effective for fixing Windows update and installation errors

Cons:

• Only repairs Windows system files, not user data files
• Can be time-consuming, especially DISM operations
• May require Windows installation media for some repairs
• Cannot fix hardware-related corruption issues

Method 3: Fix Hardware and Connection Issues

Many instances of Error 0x80070570 stem from hardware problems or connection issues, especially with external storage devices. Addressing these physical factors can resolve persistent corruption problems.

Diagnosing and Fixing Connection Problems

1. Check and replace USB cables:
   • Inspect cables for physical damage (kinks, cuts, exposed wires)
   • Try different USB ports, preferably directly on the computer (not through hubs)
   • Test with a known good cable of appropriate quality
   • For external hard drives, ensure power cables are secure
   • Use shorter cables when possible to reduce signal degradation
2. Address USB connection issues:
   • Reset the USB controller:
     1. Open Device Manager (right-click Start button, select "Device Manager")
     2. Expand "Universal Serial Bus controllers"
     3. Right-click each USB controller and select "Uninstall device"
     4. Restart your computer to reinstall the controllers automatically
   • Try different USB transfer modes:
     1. Open Device Manager
     2. Expand "Disk drives"
     3. Right-click your external drive and select "Properties"
     4. Go to the "Policies" tab
     5. Switch between "Better performance" and "Quick removal" options
3. Manage data transfer properly:
   • Always use "Safely Remove Hardware" before disconnecting devices
   • Avoid performing multiple file operations simultaneously
   • For large transfers, break them into smaller batches
   • Close applications that might be accessing the files
   • Disable sleep/hibernation during important transfers

Addressing Storage Device Issues

1. Check drive health with built-in tools:
   • For basic drive information:
     1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
     2. Type wmic diskdrive get status, model, name
     3. Look for "Status: OK" for each drive
   • For S.M.A.R.T. status (internal drives):
     1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator
     2. Type wmic diskdrive get status, model, name, mediatype
     3. Check if status shows "OK" or error codes
2. Use manufacturer diagnostic tools:
   • Download the appropriate tool for your drive brand:
     • Seagate: SeaTools
     • Western Digital: Data Lifeguard Diagnostic
     • Samsung: Magician (for SSDs)
     • Crucial: Storage Executive (for SSDs)
     • Toshiba: Storage Diagnostic Tool
   • Run both quick and extended tests
   • Follow manufacturer recommendations for any detected issues
3. Address power management issues:
   • For external drives with separate power:
     • Ensure stable power supply connection
     • Consider using a powered USB hub for bus-powered devices
     • Test with a different power adapter if available
   • Adjust Windows power settings:
     1. Open Control Panel > Power Options
     2. Click "Change plan settings" for your active power plan
     3. Click "Change advanced power settings"
     4. Expand "USB settings" and "Hard disk" options
     5. Disable power saving for USB and hard disks when performing critical file operations

Hardware Troubleshooting for Different Storage Types

Pros:

• Addresses root causes of corruption rather than just symptoms
• Can prevent future occurrences of Error 0x80070570
• Many fixes are simple and don't require specialized software
• Identifies potentially failing hardware before catastrophic data loss

Cons:

• May require hardware replacement in some cases
• Doesn't recover already corrupted files
• Manufacturer tools vary in capabilities and user-friendliness
• Some diagnostics can take hours to complete for large drives

Method 4: Recover and Repair Corrupted Files

When Error 0x80070570 persists despite system-level fixes, you may need specialized tools to recover or repair individual corrupted files.

File Recovery Software Options

1. Use third-party data recovery software:
   • Popular options with good results:
     • Recuva (free and premium versions)
     • Disk Drill
     • R-Studio
     • TestDisk & PhotoRec (free, open-source)
     • EaseUS Data Recovery
   • Install recovery software to a different drive than the one being recovered
   • Run a deep scan for best results with corrupted files
   • Preview files before recovery when possible to verify integrity
   • Save recovered files to a different drive than the source
2. Use file repair tools for specific file types:
   • For document files:
     • Office documents: Stellar Phoenix Office Repair, Recovery Toolbox
     • PDF files: PDF Repair Toolbox, Wondershare Repairit
   • For media files:
     • Images: JPEG Repair Tool, PixRecovery
     • Video: Stellar Video Repair, Wondershare Repairit for Video
     • Audio: Tenorshare Audio Repair, Remo Repair
   • For archive files:
     • ZIP/RAR: WinRAR Repair feature, Zip Repair Pro
     • 7z files: 7-Zip built-in repair options
   • For database files:
     • Access: Stellar Access Database Repair
     • SQL: SQL Database Recovery tools

Using Windows Built-in Copy Mechanisms for Partial Recovery

1. Attempt Robocopy with error handling:
   • Open Command Prompt as Administrator
   • Use this command:
     robocopy [source] [destination] [file] /R:0 /W:0 /ZB
   • Example:
     robocopy E:\Documents D:\Backup important.docx /R:0 /W:0 /ZB
   • Parameters:
     • /R:0 = don't retry on failed copies
     • /W:0 = no wait time between retries
     • /ZB = use restartable mode with backup mode as fallback
   • For copying entire folders with error handling:
     robocopy [source] [destination] /MIR /R:1 /W:1 /ZB
2. Use XCOPY with options for problematic files:
   • Open Command Prompt as Administrator
   • For basic copying with error handling:
     xcopy [source] [destination] /C /H /R /Y
   • Example:
     xcopy "E:\Corrupted File.docx" "D:\Backup\" /C /H /R /Y
   • Parameters:
     • /C = continue even if errors occur
     • /H = copy hidden and system files
     • /R = overwrite read-only files
     • /Y = suppress confirmation prompt

Advanced Recovery for Critical Files

1. Use file carving techniques for severe corruption:
   • File carving recovers files based on signatures rather than file system entries
   • Useful when file system is severely damaged
   • Tools like PhotoRec, R-Studio, and Recuva support file carving
   • Focus on specific file types to improve results
   • Expect file names to be lost in the process
2. Combine partial files when possible:
   • For large files with partial corruption:
     1. Try to copy segments of the file from before and after corruption
     2. Use hex editors like HxD to combine salvageable portions
     3. For media files, specialized tools can sometimes reconstruct from fragments
   • Document repair through templates:
     1. Create a new file with the same format
     2. Extract content from corrupted file where possible
     3. Rebuild document structure manually
3. Professional data recovery services:
   • Consider for truly critical data when software recovery fails
   • Services can often recover from severe corruption or physical damage
   • Provides clean room environments for physical drive issues
   • Typically costs $300-$1500+ depending on severity
   • Look for services with "no recovery, no fee" policies

Pros:

• Can recover data even when system-level repairs fail
• Specialized tools exist for virtually every file type
• Multiple recovery approaches increase success chances
• Some options work even with severe corruption

Cons:

• Many effective tools require purchase
• Recovery isn't guaranteed, especially with severe corruption
• Can be time-consuming for large files or numerous files
• Professional services can be expensive

Method 5: Preventing Future File Corruption

After resolving Error 0x80070570, implementing preventive measures can help avoid future file corruption issues and associated data loss.

Implementing Backup Strategies

1. Set up regular backup routines:
   • Use the 3-2-1 backup strategy:
     • 3 copies of important data
     • 2 different storage media types
     • 1 copy stored off-site or in the cloud
   • Scheduled backup options:
     • Windows Backup (built-in)
     • Third-party solutions (Macrium Reflect, Acronis, Veeam)
     • Cloud backup services (Backblaze, iDrive, Carbonite)
   • Test backup restoration periodically to ensure viability
   • Document your backup system for easy reference
2. Use file versioning and snapshots:
   • Enable File History in Windows:
     1. Open Settings > Update & Security > Backup
     2. Click "Add a drive" to select backup destination
     3. Click "More options" to configure settings
     4. Adjust how often to save copies and how long to keep them
   • Consider cloud services with versioning:
     • OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive offer version history
     • Configure retention settings appropriately
     • Enable file sync for important working folders

Storage Device Maintenance

1. Schedule regular disk maintenance:
   • Run CHKDSK periodically (monthly):
     1. Create a scheduled task for automated checks
     2. For HDDs, include parameter /r to check for physical errors
     3. For SSDs, use /f without /r to avoid unnecessary wear
   • Monitor drive health with S.M.A.R.T. tools:
     • CrystalDiskInfo (free)
     • HDDScan
     • Manufacturer-specific utilities
   • Set up alerts for drive health issues
2. Maintain storage devices properly:
   • For SSDs:
     • Keep 10-20% free space for optimal performance
     • Enable TRIM through Windows (usually enabled by default)
     • Update SSD firmware when available
     • Avoid unnecessary write operations
   • For HDDs:
     • Defragment periodically (Windows usually handles this automatically)
     • Avoid physical shocks during operation
     • Ensure adequate cooling and ventilation
     • Replace drives approaching 3-5 years of regular use
   • For external drives:
     • Always use "Safely Remove Hardware" before disconnection
     • Use high-quality cables and connections
     • Transport in protective cases
     • Keep away from extreme temperatures and moisture

System-Level Protection

1. Use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply):
   • Prevents abrupt shutdowns during power outages
   • Protects against power surges and brownouts
   • Provides time for proper system shutdown
   • Crucial for desktop computers with mechanical hard drives
   • Should cover both computer and external storage devices
2. Keep Windows and drivers updated:
   • Enable automatic Windows updates
   • Check for storage controller and driver updates
   • Update firmware for storage devices when available
   • Ensure proper shutdown procedures always used
3. Implement security measures:
   • Use reliable antivirus and anti-malware protection
   • Enable Windows Defender real-time protection
   • Run periodic full system scans
   • Practice safe browsing and download habits
   • Keep applications updated to patch security vulnerabilities

Best Practices for File Handling

1. Adopt safe file management habits:
   • Avoid moving files between partitions when possible (copy then delete)
   • Don't interrupt file operations in progress
   • Close files properly in applications before shutting down
   • Be cautious when force-quitting applications with unsaved changes
   • Use appropriate file formats for different purposes
2. Implement file integrity verification:
   • For critical files, generate and store hash values (MD5, SHA-256)
   • Use tools like HashMyFiles or FastSum to verify integrity after transfers
   • Consider file integrity monitoring software for business environments
   • Use archive formats with built-in CRC checking for important backups
3. Document recovery procedures:
   • Create a simple guide for handling future corruption issues
   • List tools and methods that worked for your environment
   • Note location of backups and recovery media
   • Keep track of software license information for recovery tools
   • Include contact information for IT support or recovery services

Pros:

• Prevents most common causes of Error 0x80070570
• Minimizes data loss risk even when corruption occurs
• Many preventive measures improve overall system performance
• Creates systematic approach to file safety

Cons:

• Requires ongoing time investment for maintenance
• Some solutions have associated costs (UPS, backup services)
• May introduce small workflow changes for safer practices
• Cannot prevent all possible causes of corruption