Software⏱️ 4 min read📅 2026-06-15

How to Fix: Error reading from file: Input/output error

Error reading from file: Input/output error - unable to access and recover edited file due to corrupted data.

Quick Answer: Try using a file recovery tool or checking for disk errors to potentially recover the missing details.

The 'Error reading from file: Input/output error' issue affects users who attempt to access and edit files on their flash drives. This error can be frustrating, especially when trying to recover lost data or complete a critical task.

In this troubleshooting guide, we will walk you through the steps to resolve the 'Input/output error' issue and help you recover your lost file details.

💡 Why You Are Getting This Error

  • The primary cause of the 'Error reading from file: Input/output error' is a corrupted file system or a hardware issue with the flash drive. When you edited the file, it may have caused an internal conflict that prevents the file system from recognizing the changes.
  • Another possible reason for this error is a misconfigured file system or incorrect permissions settings on the flash drive.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Verified Fixes

Recovering Data Using Disk Carving

  1. Step 1: Connect the flash drive to your computer and ensure it's recognized by the operating system.
  2. Step 2: Insert the inserted disk image of the damaged file into a third-party disk carving software (such as Recuva, EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard, or Disk Drill).
  3. Step 3: Select the damaged file and follow the software's instructions to recover the lost data. Be cautious not to overwrite any existing files during the recovery process.
  4. Step 4: Once recovered, save the data in a safe location to avoid overwriting it with new information.

Recovering Data Using File System Check

  1. Step 1: Connect the flash drive to your computer and ensure it's recognized by the operating system.
  2. Step 2: Open the file manager or disk utility software (such as GParted or fdisk) and select the damaged file. Right-click on the file and choose 'Properties' or 'File Properties'.
  3. Step 3: Check if there are any read-only settings enabled for the file system or the flash drive. If so, disable them to allow writing to the file.
  4. Step 4: If the issue persists, try running a file system check using the built-in `fsck` command (on Linux-based systems) or `chkdsk` command (on Windows-based systems).
  5. Step 5: Once the file system is checked and repaired, attempt to access the file again. If it's still not readable, proceed with disk carving recovery.

🎯 Final Words

If you've tried both methods without success, consider seeking professional help from a data recovery expert or contacting the manufacturer's support team for further assistance. Remember to always back up your important files regularly to avoid losing valuable data in the future.

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