If you’re encountering Error 80070057 with the message “The parameter is incorrect,” you’re not alone. This is a common error in Windows, often occurring during file operations, system backups, or when updating Windows. It can be frustrating, but the good news is that it’s typically easy to fix. In this post, we’ll walk through the causes of this error and share quick, effective solutions to resolve it.
What is Error 80070057?
Error 80070057 typically appears in one of two scenarios:
- During a Windows Update: It may pop up when you’re trying to update your operating system or when Windows Update fails to complete.
- When Backing Up Files: The error can also occur when trying to back up files using Windows Backup or third-party backup software.
The full error message reads, “Error 80070057: The parameter is incorrect,” and it usually points to an issue with system settings, file permissions, or corrupted system files. Let’s explore the most common causes and how to fix them.
Common Causes of Error 80070057
Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand what might be causing this error:
- Incorrect System Configuration: Sometimes, incorrect settings or configurations in your Windows installation can trigger this error.
- Corrupted Windows Update Files: If the update files are corrupted, it can prevent updates from completing successfully.
- Faulty Disk Permissions: In some cases, the error arises because the system doesn’t have the correct permissions to access or modify files.
- Full or Fragmented Hard Drive: If your hard drive is full or fragmented, there may not be enough space to complete the required operation.
Now that we know the possible causes, let’s look at some solutions that should resolve the error quickly.
Quick Solutions to Fix Error 80070057
1. Run Windows Update Troubleshooter
One of the easiest ways to resolve Windows Update errors, including Error 80070057, is to use the built-in Windows Update Troubleshooter. This tool automatically detects and fixes common problems related to Windows Update.
Steps:
- Open the Settings app by pressing
Windows + I
. - Go to Update & Security > Troubleshoot.
- Under Get up and running, select Windows Update.
- Click Run the troubleshooter and follow the on-screen instructions.
The troubleshooter will try to identify any problems preventing updates and offer a fix if necessary.
2. Clear the Windows Update Cache
Corrupted or outdated Windows Update cache can cause error 80070057. Clearing the cache can sometimes resolve the issue.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator. (Search for “cmd” in the Start menu, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.)
- In the Command Prompt, type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:

3. Navigate to the following folder:

4. Delete all the files and folders in the SoftwareDistribution folder.
5. After clearing the cache, restart the services by typing these commands in Command Prompt:

6. Now, try updating Windows again to see if the error persists.
3. Check Disk Space
If your hard drive is too full or fragmented, it could cause the error. Make sure there’s enough space on your primary drive (usually C:) for system updates and file operations.
Steps:
- Open File Explorer and right-click on C: drive.
- Select Properties, and under the General tab, check how much free space is available.
- If your disk is nearly full, try deleting unnecessary files or moving them to another drive to free up space.
- You can also run Disk Cleanup by typing “Disk Cleanup” in the search box and following the prompts to clean up unnecessary files.
4. Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM
Corrupted system files often cause errors like 80070057. You can run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) to repair these files.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- First, run the SFC scan:

3. Wait for the scan to complete. If any issues are found, it will attempt to fix them.
4. If the error persists, try running the DISM tool:

5. Let the DISM tool complete the process (this can take some time), and then restart your computer.
5. Adjust File and Folder Permissions
Incorrect file or folder permissions can prevent you from accessing or modifying files, triggering error 80070057.
Steps:
- Right-click the folder or file that is causing the issue and select Properties.
- Go to the Security tab and click Edit to change permissions.
- Ensure that the appropriate user account has Full Control over the file or folder.
- Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
6. Perform a System Restore
If none of the above solutions work, you can try performing a System Restore to roll back your system to a previous state when everything was working correctly.
Steps:
- Open the Control Panel and search for System Restore.
- Select Create a restore point.
- Under the System Protection tab, click System Restore.
- Choose a restore point before you encountered Error 80070057 and follow the prompts.
Error 80070057, with the message “The parameter is incorrect,” can be caused by a variety of issues, including corrupted update files, incorrect system settings, or insufficient disk space. Fortunately, it’s a relatively easy error to fix with the right troubleshooting steps. Start with basic solutions like running the Windows Update troubleshooter or clearing the update cache, and if the problem persists, use tools like SFC, DISM, or adjust file permissions.
If none of these methods work, performing a System Restore may be your last resort.
By following the steps above, you should be able to fix Error 80070057 and get your system running smoothly again.