ERROR_JOURNAL_NOT_ACTIVE - 1179 (0x49B)

The volume change journal is not active.

Updated: Feb 21, 2026

Technical Meaning

The ERROR_JOURNAL_NOT_ACTIVE error code indicates that the volume change journal, which is used for maintaining a log of file system changes, is not active on the specified volume. This can lead to issues in recovering data or ensuring consistency if the volume undergoes unexpected shutdowns.

Error Details

This error typically occurs when an operation requires the volume change journal to be active but finds it inactive. The presence of this error suggests that the file system may not have been properly configured for journaling, or there might be a configuration issue preventing the journal from being enabled.

Usage Context

The ERROR_JOURNAL_NOT_ACTIVE error can arise in various scenarios where the file system expects to use its change journal. Common operations include creating, renaming, or deleting files and directories, especially when these actions are critical for maintaining data integrity.

Developer Interpretation

Developers should interpret this error as an indication that a necessary feature (the volume change journal) is not available or active on the file system. This can impact the reliability of operations that depend on the journal to ensure data consistency and recovery in case of unexpected shutdowns.

Related Errors

  • ERROR_FILE_SYSTEM_CORRUPT (0x80070522): Indicates a more severe issue with the file system, which might be related if the journal is not active due to corruption.
  • ERROR_JOURNAL_STREAM_NOT_FOUND (0x800704C1): Occurs when the journal stream cannot be found, which could be a precursor or consequence of this error.

FAQ

Q: What does the ERROR_JOURNAL_NOT_ACTIVE error mean?

A: It indicates that the volume change journal is not active on the specified file system, potentially leading to issues in maintaining data integrity and recovery.

Q: How can I resolve this issue?

A: Ensure that the file system is configured with a journal. You may need to adjust the file system settings or reconfigure the volume for journaling support.

Summary

The ERROR_JOURNAL_NOT_ACTIVE error code highlights a critical state where the volume change journal required by certain operations is not active, impacting data integrity and recovery mechanisms. Developers should ensure that their applications handle this scenario appropriately to maintain robust file system operations.