A write error is an error that occurs when data cannot be written to a diskette, disc, or disk drive. Below are some different examples of why you may get a write error when attempting to write information.

Causes of write errors

  • If you are writing information online, write errors can occur if your computer looses connection or times out.
  • You do not have the proper permissions. For example, if you only have read rights you can read but not write any new data.
  • When attempting to write (burn) information onto a recordable disc that is dirty, full, or scratched.
  • Media is failing or bad. For example, if the hard drive is failing or has multiple bad sectors you will receive write errors.
  • Media does not support write. For example, you cannot write information to a CD-ROM disc.
  • With a floppy disk or memory card, you may receive a write error if the diskette is write protected.

Error, Hard drive terms, Write

  • Why do computers get problems?
  • Commonly experienced computer errors and basic troubleshooting steps.