Here are some steps you can take to fix common issues caused by corrupted files in Windows:
Method 1: Run the built-in System File Checker (SFC) tool
The System File Check is a built-in tool that scans your system for corrupted files and fixes them if necessary. To run the SFC tool:
- Press the Windows key + R, type “sfc /scannow” in the Run dialog box, and press Enter.
- If the tool finds any corrupted files, it will automatically repair them.
Method 2: Use a third-party file repair tool
There are several third-party tools available that can help fix corrupted files. Some popular options include:
- Win Recovery Tool (free)
- Advanced System Repair Tool (free trial, then purchase or subscription-based)
- Ultimate Boot Repair (paid)
These tools scan your system for corrupted files and provide a list of fixes.
Method 3: Reinstall Windows
If the above methods don’t work, it’s possible that a virus or malware has caused the corruption. In this case, you’ll need to reinstall Windows:
- Shut down your computer and disconnect from the internet.
- Boot from an installation media (such as a USB drive) or CD/DVD.
- Follow the installation prompts to install Windows.
Method 4: Run the DISM (Dependent System Module) tool
The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is another built-in tool that can help fix corrupted files:
- Press the Windows key + R, type “dism /online /cleanup-image /scannow” in the Run dialog box, and press Enter.
- If the tool finds any corruption, it will automatically repair them.
Method 5: Update your operating system and drivers
Make sure that your operating system and drivers are up to date:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Check for updates and install them if necessary.
- Go to Device Manager (Press the Windows key + X, select Device Manager).
- Look for any devices with yellow exclamation marks or errors, and right-click on them and select Update driver.
Method 6: Run a System Restore
If you have System Restore points set up, you can try restoring your system to a point where the corruption was fixed:
- Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery.
- Click on “Get started” under “Reset this PC”.
- Choose “System image (System Restore)” as the destination.
Method 7: Use a disk cleanup tool
A disk cleanup tool can help remove any unnecessary files that may be causing corruption:
- Go to File Explorer, select Computer or This PC.
- Right-click on the drive where you want to clean up space and select “Properties”.
- Click on “Disk Cleanup” under the Advanced system tools section.
- Select the files to delete.
Method 8: Run a registry cleaner
A registry cleaner can help remove any malicious entries that may be causing corruption:
- Go to File Explorer, then open the Registry Editor (Press the Windows key + R).
- Navigate to the following folders:
* HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
* HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- Delete any entries that you’re not sure are safe.
- Restart your computer.
Method 9: Perform a System File Checker (SFC) with the command line
You can use the following command to run SFC with the command line:
sfc /scannow
This will scan your system for corrupted files and fix them if necessary.
Prevention is key
To prevent future issues, make sure to:
- Back up your important files regularly.
- Use antivirus software.
- Keep your operating system and drivers up to date.
- Run disk cleanup tools periodically.
