Use These Command Prompt Commands to Fix or Repair Corrupt Files

Be up and running again asap

The WindowsSystem File Checker (SFC)is a nifty tool for repairing corrupted files. Here’s a quick guide on how you can restore your files and get your PC running normally again.

Run

SFC

First, you will need to open an elevatedCommand Prompt (CMD). Basically, you will need to run Command Prompt as an administrator.

RunSearchand typeCommand Prompt. Find Command Prompt from the results, right-click it, then selectRun as Administrator.

Run

DISM (Windows 8 and higher)

Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 users, you will need to run theDeployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)tool before launching SFC.

Note:Windows 7 users can skip ahead to the next step.

In the Command Prompt, type the following command then press enter:

DISM will use Windows Update to find files that will replace or repair the corrupted versions. This process could take several minutes.

Run SCANNOW

Now we can scan the system for corrupted files. On the Command Prompt, type the command:

With this command, Windows will go through your files and replace the corrupted files. Scanning will take some time. It’s important that you do not close the Command Prompt until the scan is 100% complete.

Review the Results

Once the scan is finished, you will receive one of the following messages:

View

SFC details

You can open the sfcdetails.txt file to view or copy the information gathered from the scan. Use the instructions below to locate the aforementioned text file.

Open an elevated Command Prompt and type the following command:

This will create a copy of the file on your desktop. Open the file and scan through the results. Do note that the file will show all the data, including ones that were gathered from previous SFC runs.

You will need to check the time and the date to find specific entries.

Replace Corrupt Files Manually

If SFC fails to replace the broken Windows file, you can try doing so manually. This is possible as long as you know where the corrupt file is located. You will also need a good copy of that file so it can be replaced.

Open an elevated Command Prompt and type the following command:

Remember to replace with the path of the corrupt file. This command will allow you to take ownership of the infected file. CMD will inform you if the takeover is a success.

Once finished, give administrators access to the corrupt file. Do so by typing the following command:

Again, remember to replace with the corrupt file path.

Now you can replace the bad file with the good version. You will need to copy the good file and paste it where the old one is. Type the following command:

Replace

Christopher Jan Benitez is a freelance writer for hire who provides actionable and useful web content to small businesses and startups. In his spare time, he religiously watches professional wrestling and finds solace in listening to ’80s speed metal.Read Christopher’s Full Bio

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