Windows users always make sure to back up their files, but sometimes they come across errors.
> I have a couple of USB memory sticks and recently I formatted a USB stick and > used it. When I tried to format another one, an error message popped up. > “Windows can’t format this disk. The disk is write protected or Read-only.”
- The usb disk read only error can occur due to problems with your OS or with your hardware.
- To start solving the problem, you should disable your antivirus and try to read the files with a different program.
- Another common solution is to create a new partition for your flash drive.
Make sure that the USB memory sticks aren’t corrupted
- Some USB sticks have a damaged file system due to which Windows fails to read data from it.
- Check if the memory stick is old
Run Disk Cleanup to remove temporary files
- Press Windows Key + X to open the Power User Menu, and select Disk Cleanup.
- Select the disk to clean up, and select the Clean up system files option.
Try a different USB port
- Some of the USB ports on your PC may be damaged and will not be able to read your USB drive.
- Try a different USB port.
Check your USB memory stick
- Restart your computer.
- Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer.
- Navigate to your desktop.
- Right-click on the USB memory stick and choose Format.
- Check all the boxes and hit the Start button.
Change the file permissions of the USB memory stick
- Access the File Explorer (Windows Key + E)
- Right-click on the USB memory stick
- Select Properties
- Under the Security tab, click on Advanced
- Click on Change
- Click on the folder or directory you want to change permissions for
- Click on Edit
- Select the Everyone option
- Click on Apply
- Click on OK
