Windows 10 Backup Error 0x807800c5: Fixes

Windows 10 backup error 0x807800c5 usually appears when the system image or file backup fails due to a corrupted shadow copy, a full backup drive, or a problem with the Volume Shadow Copy (VSS) service. You can fix it by freeing up space on the destination drive, running the VSS and System File Checker tools, and then reconfiguring the backup settings. Below is a detailed troubleshooting guide with steps you can try in order, plus background on why this error occurs.

What Is Error 0x807800c5?

Error 0x807800c5 is a Windows Backup (also called Backup and Restore) failure code. It typically shows a message like “The backup was not successful. The error code is 0x807800C5.” This error is often linked to the Volume Shadow Copy service, which Windows uses to create snapshots of files while they are in use. When that service fails or the backup destination runs out of space, the backup process stops and returns this code.

Why Does This Error Happen?

There are several common causes for 0x807800c5:

Insufficient disk space on the drive where you are saving the backup.
Corrupted system files that affect the backup service.
Volume Shadow Copy service is disabled or not running.
Third-party antivirus or disk cleanup tools interfering with the backup process.
Old or conflicting backup jobs that need to be reset.

How to Fix Error 0x807800c5

Try these steps in order. Most users resolve the error with the first two or three.

1. Free Up Space on the Backup Drive

The most common cause is a full destination drive. Windows Backup needs room for the backup files plus temporary space for the shadow copy. Make sure the drive has at least 10-15% free space, or more if you are backing up a large amount of data. Delete old backups or move them to another drive.

2. Run the System File Checker and DISM

Corrupted system files can break the backup service. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run:

sfc /scannow – scans and repairs protected system files.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth – repairs the system image.

Restart your PC after these complete and try the backup again.

3. Restart the Volume Shadow Copy Service

The VSS service must be running for backups to work. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and press Enter. Find Volume Shadow Copy, right-click it, and select Restart. Also check that its Startup Type is set to Manual (this is the default and allows Windows to start it when needed).

4. Delete Existing Backup History

Sometimes the backup catalog gets corrupted. In Control Panel, go to Backup and Restore (Windows 7), click Manage space, then View backups. Select the backup and choose Delete. This removes the old backup set, and then you can start a fresh backup.

5. Disable Third-Party Antivirus Temporarily

Some security programs lock files that VSS tries to read. Temporarily disable your antivirus (not Windows Defender) and try the backup. If it works, add an exception for the backup folder and the VSS service.

6. Use a Different Backup Destination

If the error persists, try backing up to a different drive (an external USB drive or a different internal partition). This helps determine if the issue is with the destination drive itself.

What Is Volume Shadow Copy and Why Does It Matter?

Volume Shadow Copy (VSS) is a Windows service that creates point-in-time snapshots of files and volumes. Backup and Restore uses VSS to copy files that are currently open or in use. If VSS fails, the backup cannot complete, and you get an error like 0x807800c5. The service also handles System Restore points, so if you see restore point failures too, VSS is likely the culprit.

Preventing Future Backup Errors

To avoid this error in the future:

Keep at least 15% free space on your backup drive.
Regularly run sfc /scannow and DISM to keep system files healthy.
Do not disable the Volume Shadow Copy service.
Use the built-in Backup and Restore or File History, and test your backups periodically.
If you use a third-party backup tool, ensure it is compatible with your Windows version.

Common Misconceptions

Some users think this error means their data is lost. That is not true – the error only means the backup failed. Your existing files are unaffected. Another misconception is that you need to reinstall Windows to fix it. In most cases, the steps above resolve the issue without a reinstall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will error 0x807800c5 damage my files?

No. The error only indicates that the backup process did not complete. Your original files remain untouched.

Can I use a network drive for backup?

Yes, Windows Backup supports network locations. However, the drive must be accessible and have enough free space. Network issues can also cause backup failures, so ensure a stable connection.

How long should a Windows backup take?

It depends on the amount of data and the speed of your drives. A full system image of 100 GB can take 30 minutes to a few hours. If it takes much longer, there may be a problem.

Is there a difference between File History and Backup and Restore?

Yes. File History backs up personal files in the Libraries, Desktop, Contacts, and Favorites folders. Backup and Restore (Windows 7) can create a full system image and back up selected folders. Both use VSS and can show error 0x807800c5.

What if none of these fixes work?

If the error persists after trying all steps, consider using a third-party backup tool or creating a system image using the wbadmin command in an elevated Command Prompt. You can also check the Windows Event Viewer for detailed VSS errors that may point to a specific cause.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

More in this bed

The whole Tech How-To bed →