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FIX: Windows was unable to complete the format error

4 min. read

Updated onOctober 4, 2023

updated onOctober 4, 2023

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Key notes

Windows 10 has many built-in settings and features through which we can initiatedifferent processesor complete various tasks. What we all want is a stable firmware and intuitive solutions when we use our computers for daily tasks. That’s why problems like theWindows was unable to complete the formaterror are so frustrating.

Formatting a certain partitionor external device – shouldn’t raise any sort of problems in the first place. Formatting your drive is a default feature that should offer instant hardware-oriented solutions regardless of what version of Windows you are currently using.

Usually, a format is required when you first use aUSB memory stick, an external hard drive, a new SSD, or any other similar component. Additionally, in some situations, Windows might ask you to initiate a format for being able to use your flash drives.

And, independently from the already mentioned aspects, you might want to format your drive to erase data and files that are no longer useful for you.

NOTE: If possible, save the files that might still be required afterwards. The formatting process is a wipe operation that will erase everything from your drive – basically, in the end, it will be restored back to its default/factory state.

There are various reasons why the formatting process stops: there is avirus infection, there are bad sectors, there is astorage devicedamage or disk write protection is enabled.

However, there is a way in which you can still successfully complete the wiping process and here is what you need to do.

How do I fix Windows was unable to complete the format?

How do I fix Windows was unable to complete the format?

1. Use Disk Management

If the format still cannot be completed, right-click on the driver and selectdelete volume. Afterwards, right-click on the driver again and choosenew simple volume. Complete the wizard by following on-screen prompts for creating a new volume. After these steps are complete you can initiate the format.

You can also use a third-party app for completing the format process, or you can execute dedicated commands from command prompt, though that process might be a little bit more complicated. More on that in the section below:

2. How to erase a drive through CMD

If you’re having trouble accessing Command Prompt as an admin, then you better take a closer look at this guide.

There you have it; that’s how you can fix theWindows was unable to complete the formatissue on Windows 10. You can tell us how everything turned out in the end by filling out the comment form from down below.

If you are still facing issues while trying to use the format feature we will try to assist you as soon as possible.

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More about the topics:windows 10 errors

Andrew Wafer

Andrew is not just trying to bring you closer to Windows, but he’s truly interested in this platform. He just happens to be passionate about sharing that knowledge with our readers and that’s what makes his presence here, at WindowsReport, such a valuable one.

He specializes in writing about the best products for this operating system and Windows 10 fixes. Determined and creative, Andrew also loves coffee, country music, and Sunday mornings.

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