Failed to access the shadow volume. Error (2147549183): Catastrophic failure


This error (0x8000FFFF) occurs when running a scheduled profile using the backup operator and if the VSS service has not been started or other software has caused VSS to stop working. 


Solution:


1. Restart the following services: COM+ Event System, COM+ System Application, Microsoft Software Shadow Copy Provider, Volume Shadow Copy


2. Change the startup type of the Volume Shadow copy service to 'Automatic' (right click on Volume Shadow Copy > Properties > set the 'Start type' to 'Automatic') and reboot the computer.


3. Open a command prompt and run the following commands:

cd /d %windir%\system32
net stop vss
net stop swprv
regsvr32 ole32.dll
regsvr32 oleaut32.dll
regsvr32 /i eventcls.dll
regsvr32 vss_ps.dll
vssvc /register
regsvr32 /i swprv.dll
regsvr32 es.dll
regsvr32 stdprov.dll
regsvr32 vssui.dll
regsvr32 msxml.dll
regsvr32 msxml3.dll
regsvr32 msxml4.dll
net start swprv
net start vss

 

4. Reboot the computer

5. Test the backup

Advanced VSS Options


SyncBackPro and SyncBackSE V12 (and later) include advanced Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS) options that provide reliable copying of open or locked files. These settings allow administrators to select and fine-tune VSS components such as providers, context, and backup type to ensure compatibility with different storage environments and application requirements.


In most cases, the default configuration is sufficient. However, advanced options are available for scenarios that require specific snapshot behavior or integration with enterprise storage systems, such as enterprise RAID systems or SAN arrays. For example, a SQL database VSS provider can ensure that database files are captured in a consistent and complete state during the copy process.


You can access the advanced VSS options from Modify Profile > Expert > Copy/Delete > VSS Settings.