Fix Windows 11 System Restore Error 0x80073B01: Step-by-Step Guide

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There’s no better feeling than knowing you can rewind time when your Windows 11 system throws a tantrum. System Restore has long been that magical safety net for many users. However, for some, it isn’t quite working its charm and is instead spitting out an intimidating error: 0x80073B01 accompanied by the cryptic message, “The resource loader cache doesn’t have loaded MUI entry.” Wait. What?
Before you start pulling your hair out over this digital disaster, let’s break it down to understand what’s really going on and how you can fix it. Read on for some good ol’ Windows wizardry.

What is System Restore and Why the Error?

If you're not familiar, System Restore is Windows' built-in time machine. It lets you roll your system back to a previous state when everything was working fine. It’s not a full backup tool (don't expect it to save your files) but rather restores system settings, drivers, and programs.
But here’s the wrinkle—the error 0x80073B01 often arises because of bugs, corruption in system files, disk issues, or even malware. Essentially, the machine struggles to function as it can’t load vital Multilingual User Interface (MUI) resources from the resource loader cache. Think of it as a missing piece of a recipe: the Software Chef (your system) just isn’t cooking because the key ingredient (cache files) is missing!
But luckily, there are straightforward ways to fix this. Let’s jump right into it.

Tried and True Fixes for Error Code 0x80073B01

Follow these fixes one step at a time. Each one addresses a unique potential cause, starting with simpler solutions before diving into complex technical territory.

1️⃣ Check for Windows Updates

Sometimes, the easiest solution is staring us in the face. This error could be a result of a bug in your current version of Windows, one that Microsoft has already patched. Here’s how you update:
  • Press Win + I to open Settings.
  • Navigate to Windows Update on the left panel.
  • Hit "Check for updates" and install anything available.
Let Windows churn through the update process (grab a coffee while you wait). Then, reboot the system and try System Restore again. If the issue persists, we move on.

2️⃣ Run an Antivirus or Malware Scan

Viruses and malware are like houseguests who refuse to leave—they can wreak havoc on your computer and may block critical Windows functions like System Restore. Perform a deep scan:
  • Use trusted tools like Microsoft Defender (pre-installed on Windows 11) or popular third-party antivirus software.
  • For paranoia-level reassurance, grab a robust free standalone scanner like Malwarebytes to double-check your system’s health.
Once squeaky clean, restart your machine.

3️⃣ Repair Corrupted System Files with SFC and DISM Scans

The heavy hitters for problem-solving in Windows? Say hello to System File Checker (SFC) and the Deployment Imaging Servicing and Management (DISM) tools. SFC scans and repairs corrupted files, while DISM fixes deeper image-level issues.
Follow these steps:

Run SFC (System File Checker):

  • Press Win + S, type cmd, and run Command Prompt as Administrator.
  • Enter this command:
    Code:
    bash
    
       sfc /scannow
  • Let the scan work its magic—it may take time, but patience is key.

Run DISM (Deployment Imaging Servicing):

  • Once SFC is complete, run the following command:
    Code:
    bash
    
       DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
  • Let DISM repair the more foundational image files.
Don’t skip; these two tools work in tandem to form the ultimate duo!

4️⃣ Check for Disk Errors

Hard disk issues can throw a wrench into System Restore since it relies on stable disk access to retrieve older snapshots. Thankfully, Windows comes with its own disk-checking repair tool: CHKDSK.

Here’s how you check for and fix errors:​

  • Open Command Prompt (Admin) again.
  • Run this command:
    Code:
    bash
    
       chkdsk C: /f /r
  • Replace C: with your system drive, commonly C.
  • You’ll be prompted to schedule this check upon the next restart. Press Y and reboot your PC—Windows will handle the fix automatically.

5️⃣ Create a New User Account

Bizarrely enough, some System Restore errors stem from corrupted user profiles. Creating a fresh account can isolate the problem.
  • Press Win + I to open Settings.
  • Navigate to Accounts > Family & other users.
  • Scroll to "Other users" and select “Add account.”
  • Create a local account or use your Microsoft account.
Log in to this newly minted user account and launch System Restore. If it works, you know your old account is the culprit.

6️⃣ Reinstall Windows Using Windows Update

Consider this your nuclear option, but don’t worry—it’s not as apocalyptic as it sounds. Windows 11 allows you to reinstall the operating system without affecting your personal files or apps. Think of it as a clean, refreshing system scrub.
  • Open Settings (Win + I) and go to Recovery under System.
  • Select Reset this PC, then choose Keep My Files. Follow the prompts to reinstall Windows.
It takes time, but it’s the ultimate solution if every other fix fails.

Extra Tips: Commonly Asked Questions

How Do I Fix Other System Restore Errors?

Depending on the error code, fixes might vary. General solutions you can try include:
  • Running System Restore in Safe Mode.
  • Disabling antivirus software temporarily for conflict testing.

Can I Prevent Future System Restore Failures?

Absolutely! Here’s how:
  • Regularly update Windows.
  • Perform routine disk checks (use chkdsk).
  • Keep an antivirus running to avoid malware attacks.

In Conclusion: No Need to Panic

While seeing a System Restore error like 0x80073B01 can make you roll your eyes or panic, there’s almost always a solution waiting in the wings. Start simple—update Windows, scan for malware, attempt repairs via tools like SFC and DISM, and tackle user account or reinstall needs as appropriate.
Remember, perseverance pays off. And once System Restore is back to working, consider setting up additional preventive measures like backups or cloud restores. A robust plan today saves you headaches tomorrow!
If you’ve encountered similar errors or have tips to share, join the conversation below!

Source: The Windows Club https://www.thewindowsclub.com/fix-0x80073b01-system-restore-error-in-windows
 


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