How to FIX: Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP)
A few days ago, I encountered a perplexing issue on a Windows 10 machine where the "Backup & Restore" application, which had been functioning smoothly, suddenly failed with the error: "Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP). This may happen if another application is using the files on the ESP. Please retry the operation (0x8078011E). Additional information: Access is denied (0x80070005)"
The "Backup & Restore" utility is a robust built-in feature in Windows that enables users to create a System Image or to back up their essential data to an external storage device, such as a USB drive, to safeguard against data loss. However, there are instances when the application fails to execute a "System Image" backup (also known as "Bare Metal Backup" on Windows Servers), triggering the error "Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP)".
The error "Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP)" typically arises due to one of the following three reasons:
- Inappropriate rights: Windows Backup must be executed with a user account possessing administrator privileges.
- Third-party applications: A third-party application running in the background may prevent Windows Backup from accessing or copying files.
- Antivirus program: Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus program might obstruct Windows Backup from accessing and backing up system files.
How to Fix Error 0x8078011E: 'Windows Backup Failed to Get an Exclusive Lock on the EFI System Partition (ESP)' on Windows 10/11 & Windows Server 2016/2019
To resolve the Windows Backup error 0x8078011E, apply the following steps:
Step 1. Ensure that you are running 'Windows Backup & Restore' with a user account that has administrator privileges. This step is crucial because administrative permissions allow the backup utility to access protected system files and settings, which are essential for creating a complete system image.
Step 2. Verify that no background applications are obstructing Windows backups. To do this:
-
- Open Task Manager and navigate to the Startup tab.
- Disable any startup applications that do not need to run in the background, such as OneDrive or Google Drive. This action reduces the chances of file access conflicts during the backup process.
- Restart the computer and attempt to back up your system using Windows Backup. If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 3. Temporarily disable the Real Time Protection feature on your antivirus program and then perform a Windows Backup. Disabling real-time protection can help identify if the antivirus software is blocking the backup process by preventing access to critical system files.
If the Windows Backup completes successfully, the issue likely lies with your antivirus program. Depending on the antivirus program you are using, consider the following actions:
Windows Defender (Windows Security)
If Windows Defender is your antivirus program, proceed to exclude the following file:
C:\Windows\system32\wbengine.exe
ESET & TRENDMICRO Antivirus
If you are using ESET File Security or TrendMicro antivirus programs, add the following scanning exclusions:
(Sources: ESET, TRENDMICRO)
A. Exclude these files:
- \Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\BCD
- \Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\BCD.LOG
- \Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\bootmgfw.efi
- %WINDIR%\system32\winload.efi
B. Exclude these processes:
- %WINDIR%\System32\wbengine.exe
- %WINDIR%\System32\wbadmin.exe
- %WINDIR%\System32\vssvc.exe
* Note: The "HarddiskVolume" number may vary on your system. To find the correct "HarddiskVolume" number, open the Registry Editor and check the value data of the "\REGISTRY\MACHINE\BCD00000000" REG_SZ key at the following registry location:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\hivelist
Summary
In summary, resolving the "Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP)" error involves ensuring administrative privileges, disabling conflicting background applications, and configuring antivirus exclusions.
That's all folks! Did it work for you? Please leave a comment in the comment section below or, even better, like and share this blog post on social networks to help spread the word about this problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the 'Windows Backup failed to get an exclusive lock on the EFI system partition (ESP)' error?
This error can occur due to inappropriate user rights, third-party applications running in the background, or antivirus programs blocking access to system files.
How can I fix the error 0x8078011E when using Windows Backup?
To fix this error, ensure you are running Windows Backup with administrative privileges, disable unnecessary startup applications, and temporarily disable real-time protection in your antivirus program to see if it resolves the issue.
What exclusions should I add for my ESET or TrendMicro antivirus to resolve this issue?
For ESET or TrendMicro antivirus, exclude specific files like \Device\HarddiskVolume1\EFI\Microsoft\Boot\BCD and processes like %WINDIR%\System32\wbengine.exe to prevent interference with Windows Backup.
How can I ensure my antivirus isn't blocking Windows Backup on a Windows 10 machine?
If you're using Windows Defender, exclude the file C:\Windows\system32\wbengine.exe. For other antivirus programs like ESET or TrendMicro, add scanning exclusions for specific files and processes as needed.
