Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271: Complete Solution

Summary: Users often encounter several Microsoft errors while performing the SQL database operations. One common error is the Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271. It generally occurs due to issues in the I/O operations during backup and restoration. Thus, to prevent the error and resolve the issues, the blog depicts some freeways. Furthermore, find a DatabaseFileRecovery SQL Database Recovery to fix Error 3271 in SQL and restore data.  Download Now Purchase Now

Run-time Error 3271: Overview

The error code 3271 occurs when the problem arises while accessing a backup file. It belongs to Severity 16, state 1, i.e., a general state of file inaccessibility. The file becomes inaccessible while the I/O operations are in execution. When this error occurs, a pop-up stating “A nonrecoverable I/O error occurred on the file “%ls” ” displays. There can be various reasons for this error resulting in database operation failures. Let’s understand more about them.

Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271: Causes

The significant reasons for which the SQL Server error 3271 arises are:

• Incorrect or invalid backup or restore file path.
• A SQL Server account doesn’t have permission to access backup files or directories.
• The backup file is in use, locked by another process, or corrupted.
• Network path or external drive connectivity issues make files inaccessible.
• The unavailability of space on the storage media or disk is also a big factor.
• SQL database corruption and issues in the VSS Writer also result in SQL error code 3271.

These are the common factors for this error. However, if you are unsure about the cause, check the SQL Server logs to identify the same. Furthermore, learn the workarounds to resolve the code 3271 or Fix Error 824 in SQL Server.

How to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271?

There are several manual ways to resolve this Microsoft 3271 error. But these manual solutions aren’t completely accurate and have other limitations too. On the other hand, a professional tool is given to resolve the error with ease. Explore both methods in this section briefly.

Manual Approaches to Fix Error 3271

The different ways to resolve error 3271 manually are as follows:

1. Increase Media Storage: First, eliminate unwanted files and data from backup storage media. Free up your external drives by clearing the cluttered storage. It helps create sufficient space to store data for running processes. Thus, preventing error 3271.
2. Correct BAK File Path: Check and set an absolute path for your backup file to avoid the error. Ensure there are no typos, extra spaces, or incorrect drive letters in the specified file path. 
3. Recheck File Permissions: Allow the read and write permissions to the SQL Server service account. Check that the DBA can perform the operations on files and directories. Also, smoothly access both the file location and the file itself. Follow these steps to verify permissions:

• Right-click the backup file or folder and press Properties.
• Further, move to the Security tab and allow R and W permissions.

1. Unlock SQL File: Make sure that your file is not locked by another program, like antivirus. To unlock the file and resolve SQL error 3271, open Task Manager. Close all the conflicting applications, and if needed, close the SQL Server too. Later, restart it.
2. Furthermore, ensure that the network connection is stable and active. Additionally, run the SQL instance check to verify if the problem is due to VSS Writer. It prevents taking database snapshots. If any instance is found, stop it and confirm VSS Writer is not active during backup.
3. Check BAK File: It is possible that the run-time Error 3271 occurred due to a corrupted or invalid BAK file. To check the file’s validity, run the command: 

RESTORE VERIFYONLY FROM DISK = ‘C:\Backup\Database.bak’;

If not valid, use an appropriate file.

Loopholes of the Manual Method

Though the manual procedure to fix the error 3271 is free, it comprises several steps. Also, there is no guarantee that the issue will be resolved. In addition, users need to have technical knowledge to understand the error and ways to fix it. Moreover, there is a high risk and chance that the data is entirely lost during the process. 

So what can be done now? Is it possible to prevent the SQL data? Yes. Do not worry, and go through the suggested expert tool for a secure way out.

Professional Tool to Fix Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271

Using the above troubleshooting methods reduces the error. However, for a more secure and optimum way to fix this error, use the DatabaseFileRecovery SQL Database Recovery Tool. It provides access to inaccessible files by repairing them with utmost accuracy. The tool recovers all tables, views, stored procedures, triggers, rules, etc. in just no time. Additionally, preview database folders before saving them at a desired location. Moreover, it is easily operable on all Windows OS and supports every SQL Server version. 

How Does the Tool Fix Error 3271?

Follow the steps to run the tool and resolve your SQL issue:

1. Launch the SQL Database Recovery Tool and click Open to add a file.
2. Press (…) to add the SQL database file that is inaccessible, and press Open.
3. Further, select Standard/Advanced recovery mode and other options. Click OK.
4. Preview the folders and subfolders of the database file and select those to recover.
5. Afterward, press Save SQL Data and choose to Save as Database or SQL Scripts.
6. At last, apply the necessary filters and set the location accordingly. Finally, click OK.

Conclusion

The blog specifies Microsoft SQL Server Error 3271, the causes for its occurrence, and methods to fix it. The task is easy to resolve, but not without a lack of technical knowledge. Using the above manual ways, you can minimize the error 3271. However, use a professional tool to resolve the problem without data loss and hassle.

Frequently Asked Questions

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