How To Fix The Parameter Is Incorrect Error In Windows

Understanding the "Parameter is Incorrect" Error

The "Parameter is incorrect" error is a common issue that prevents users from accessing files on external hard drives, USB drives, or SD cards in Windows. This error typically indicates a problem with the input or settings provided to a specific command or operation, often resulting from file system corruption, outdated software, faulty connections, or hardware issues.

Causes of the "Parameter is Incorrect" Error

File System Corruption: Corruption in the file system of the hard drive or storage device can trigger this error.
Outdated Software or Drivers: Using outdated operating system versions or drivers can lead to compatibility issues.
Faulty USB Connection: A loose or faulty USB connection can cause the error.
Hardware Issues: Physical damage to the hard drive or storage device can also result in this error.
Permission Issues: The user account may not have the necessary permissions to access the files on the drive.
Malware: Virus infections can also cause this error.
Decimal Symbol Setting: Incorrect decimal symbol settings, especially in non-English languages, can lead to this issue.

Solutions to Fix the "Parameter is Incorrect" Error

1. Run CHKDSK to Repair File System Errors

CHKDSK is a built-in Windows tool that scans and repairs file system errors and bad sectors on the hard drive.

Step 1: Connect the external hard drive to your PC.
Step 2: Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Step 3: Type chkdsk H: /f /r and press Enter, replacing H: with the drive letter of your external hard drive.
Step 4: Wait for the process to complete, then reconnect the storage drive to your computer and check if the error persists.

2. Run System File Checker (SFC)

SFC scans and repairs corrupted system files that might be causing the error.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Step 2: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
Step 3: Restart your PC and reconnect the device to see if the problem has been resolved.

3. Check and Correct Decimal Symbol Setting

Incorrect decimal symbol settings can cause the "Parameter is incorrect" error.

Step 1: Open the Control Panel and search for "Region."
Step 2: Click on "Additional settings" under the Region section.
Step 3: Ensure the Decimal symbol is set to "." (a dot).
Step 4: Click "Apply" and "OK," then reboot your PC and try to access the drive again.

4. Scan for Viruses

Virus infections can cause file system corruption and trigger this error.

Step 1: Open the Windows Defender Security Center.
Step 2: Go to the "Virus & threat protection" tab and click on "Quick scan."
Step 3: Wait for the scan process to complete and check if the drive is still inaccessible.

5. Use DISM.exe to Repair Windows Installations

In some cases, the error is caused by incorrect software installations.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Step 2: Run DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-image /scanhealth.
Step 3: Wait for the process to complete, then reconnect the device to see if the problem has been resolved.

6. Format the External Hard Drive (Last Resort)

If all other methods fail, formatting the external hard drive may resolve the issue, but this will erase all data on the drive.

Step 1: Connect the external hard drive to your PC.
Step 2: Open File Explorer, right-click the inaccessible device, and select "Format."
Step 3: Reset the file system to NTFS or exFAT.
Step 4: Click "OK" to complete the formatting process. Ensure you recover all data from the problematic device first using reliable data recovery software.

Additional Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check for Physical Damage

Ensure there is no physical damage to the external hard drive or the PC's port. Try connecting the drive via another port.

2. Update Windows and Drivers

Ensure your operating system and drivers are up-to-date, as outdated versions can cause compatibility issues.

3. Check Permissions

Ensure the user account has the necessary permissions to access the files on the drive.

Recovering Data from the Affected Drive

Before attempting any fixes that might erase data, it is crucial to recover your files. You can use data recovery software to scan the external hard drive and save the necessary files.

Step 1: Connect the external hard drive to your PC.
Step 2: Launch data recovery software (such as MiniTool Power Data Recovery).
Step 3: Select the target hard drive and scan it.
Step 4: Select and save all needed data.