Have you run into the ERROR_QUOTA_LIST_INCONSISTENT (0x26D) on your Windows 11 device? Well, it typically means Windows has detected an internal inconsistency in the disk quota list. As to what triggers this frustrating problem, it can be caused by corrupted file system data, disk errors, or misconfigured quota settings. In this step-by-step guide, I’m going to break down the five effective ways to fix ERROR_QUOTA_LIST_INCONSISTENT (0x26D) on Windows 11 like a pro. That said, let’s get started!
1. Run CHKDSK to Repair Disk Errors
Corrupted sectors or file system issues can trigger quota-related errors.
- To get going, press the
Windows + S> Type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt, type:
chkdsk C: /f /r(ReplaceC:with your system drive letter.) - If prompted, type
Yto schedule the scan at the next reboot. - Restart your PC to let the scan fix disk errors.
2. Reset the Disk Quota System
If quotas are misconfigured or corrupted, it would be better to resolve them as it may help you resolve the issue.
- To do so, open Command Prompt as an administrator on your PC.
- After that, make sure to run this command to disable quotas:
fsutil quota disable C: - Then, re-enable quotas with:
fsutil quota enable C:
This will refresh the quota descriptor and remove inconsistencies.
3. Use System File Checker (SFC)
SFC is primed to scan for corrupted Windows system files that might be causing the error.
- To do so, launch the Command Prompt with admin rights on your PC.
- Now, enter the following:
sfc /scannow
Now, make sure to let the scan complete. If any issues are found, Windows will attempt to repair them automatically.
4. Check the Event Viewer for Clues
Use Event Viewer to pinpoint exactly what’s triggering the quota error.
- First off, press
Windows + X> Event Viewer.
- Navigate to Windows Logs > System.
- Look for errors or warnings around the time the issue occurred — especially ones related to NTFS, volmgr, or Quota services.
This can help identify which disk or service is affected.
5. Perform a System Restore or Reset
If the error persists and started recently, use System Restore:
- Go to the Settings app on your Windows 11 PC > System > Recovery.
- After that, select Open System Restore and follow the steps to return to a point before the error began.
If that’s not an option, I’d recommend you perform a Windows Reset (choose Keep my files if needed).
Wrapping up…
And that’s about it! The ERROR_QUOTA_LIST_INCONSISTENT error is typically rooted in file system or disk configuration issues. By following these five methods, you can resolve the problem and restore your system’s stability.
