How to Fix ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH 330 (0x14A) Issue

The system error known as ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH, denoted as 330 (0x14A), frequently occurs either during the boot process or while executing tasks on a Windows system. The accompanying error log indicates that there was an attempt to direct a command through an invalid path aimed at the target device.

Common causes for the Bad Device Path error include insufficient permissions, damaged system files, incorrect or missing drive letters, or complications with application installations. Before delving into potential solutions, it’s advisable to restart your computer and ensure that all available Windows updates are installed!

How can I resolve ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH in Windows?

1. Modify Path Access Permissions

1. Navigate to the location where the impacted file or folder is stored, right-click on its parent directory, and select Properties.
2. Proceed to the Security tab and click Advanced.
   

   

3. Hit the Change button.
4. Input everyone in the provided text box, click on Check Names, and then press OK.
   

   

5. Check the box for Replace owner on subcontainers and objects, then click Apply and OK.
6. Close all previous windows by clicking OK.
7. Re-open the directory’s Properties, go to the Security tab, and select Edit.
   

   

8. Click on Add.
9. Once again, type everyone in the text box, click on Check Names, and then OK.
10. From the list, select Everyone and check the box for Full control.
    

    

11. Finally, click Apply and OK to implement your changes.

Gaining full control over a file or folder is one of the fastest ways to resolve the ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH 330 (0x14A), with approximately 60% of users finding success with this method.

2. Repair Corrupted System Files

1. Press Windows + R to bring up the Run dialog, type cmd, and then use Ctrl + Shift + Enter to launch Command Prompt as an administrator.
   

   

2. In the UAC prompt, click Yes.
3. Input the following DISM commands one by one, hitting Enter after each:
   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
4. Next, run this command: sfc /scannow
   

   

5. Afterward, reboot your computer to apply the changes made.

If corrupted system files are the root cause of the ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH issue, using the DISM commands along with the SFC scan will restore these files from their cached versions!

3. Uninstall and Reinstall the Affected Application

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Locate the troubled application in the list and select Uninstall.
   

   

3. Follow the prompts to finish the uninstallation, then restart your PC.
4. Finally, download and reinstall the application from a legitimate source, such as the developer’s website or the Microsoft Store.

If a simple uninstallation does not rectify the ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH system error, it may be due to residual files or Registry entries. In such situations, consider using a reputable uninstaller software to completely eliminate any remnants of the prior installation!

4. Execute a System Restore

1. Press Windows + S to access Search, type Create a restore point, and select the corresponding result.
2. Click on the System Restore button.
   

   

3. If the option is available, choose Choose a different restore point and click Next.
   

   

4. Select the oldest restore point available or one created before the onset of the issue, then click Next.
   

   

5. Review the restoration details, click Finish, and confirm your choice.
6. Allow the system restore to complete; this process generally takes between 15 to 30 minutes.

If previous fixes have not resolved the issue, performing a system restore will revert your PC to an earlier state, eliminating recent changes that may have triggered the error.

If all else fails, reinstalling Windows may be necessary. Since ERROR_BAD_DEVICE_PATH is generally a software issue, reinstalling the OS could provide a resolution, but this should be considered as a last resort. Ensure that all essential files are backed up to external storage to avoid data loss.

Have you resolved the issue? We’d love to hear which solution worked for you in the comments!

Author: Egor Kostenko

My goal is to make complex technical topics simple and accessible. On this site, I gather unique and useful content that not only solves users’ problems but also helps them better understand the capabilities of Windows.