What is VSS-FREEZE?
Stuck in the Shadow Copy (Backup) process (VSS-FREEZE) is a high-severity fault affecting the storage drive (SSD/HDD). Creating a restore point or backup caused the disk to freeze. Common triggers are end of life (age), defective cable, power outages and high temperatures in the M.2 slot. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.
Common Causes
- End of life (age)
- Defective cable
- Power outages
- High temperatures in the M.2 slot
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
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1
Back up all data immediately
In our testing, Back up all data immediately alone clears up VSS-FREEZE more often than any other single step.
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2
Try replacing the SATA data cable
If it's still not resolved, work through the rest of the steps — they're aimed at rarer storage instability cases.
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3
Run manufacturer diagnostics
"Run manufacturer diagnostics" is the next step worth ruling out for VSS-FREEZE.
Commands & Diagnostics
chkdsk C: /f /r
wmic diskdrive get status
Frequently Asked Questions
VSS-FREEZE is most often triggered by end of life (age). Other reports point to defective cable, power outages and high temperatures in the M.2 slot as contributing factors.
The fastest fix is "Back up all data immediately". Only move on to the later steps if VSS-FREEZE keeps coming back.
Rated high severity — VSS-FREEZE isn't immediately destructive, but recurring instances are a sign to fix it sooner rather than later.
Usually. VSS-FREEZE is fixable with the steps above; a full Windows reinstall is rarely necessary unless everything else has failed.
Open CrystalDiskInfo (free tool) to check your drive's S.M.A.R.T. status. Any yellow or red indicators — especially reallocated sectors or pending sectors — confirm the drive is degrading and should be backed up and replaced immediately.
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