How to Run System File Checker (sfc /scannow) in Windows

How To Run System File Checker (sfc /scannow) In Windows?

Regular computer maintenance is important for ensuring a smooth operation of your Windows PC. This article aims to enhance your understanding of the System File Checker, otherwise known as sfc /scannow, a handy yet often underused tool in the Windows Operating System. Ready to keep your windows PC shipshape? Let's get started.

Understanding The System File Checker (Sfc /scannow)

The System File Checker is an in-built utility available in Microsoft Windows. It allows users to scan for corruption in Windows system files and restore corrupted files. Sfc /scannow is the command you use in the Command Prompt to initiate a system scan.

Reasons To Use System File Checker

Now, you might be asking, "why would I need to use the sfc /scannow command?" Well, if you're experiencing issues with your Windows OS such as sluggish performance, system crashes or certain programs not working correctly, these issues can often be attributed to corrupted or modified system files.

Running System File Checker (sfc /scannow) On Windows

Running the System File Checker is a straightforward process. No need to worry about jargon or potentially compromising your system. Here’s how to run an sfc /scannow command:

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Begin by searching for the Command Prompt in the Windows search bar. Right-click on the result and choose "Run as administrator." This is necessary, as running the scan needs administrative permissions.

Step 2: Running the SFC Command

In the Command Prompt window, type in "sfc /scannow" and press Enter. Ensure you leave a space between "sfc" and "/scannow".

Step 3: Patiently Wait for the Scan to Finish

Upon pressing Enter, the System File Checker will start scanning all protected system files on your computer and repair the corrupted files if found any. This process usually takes a while so be patient!

Upon completion, you'll receive one of three messages:

1. Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations. This means no corrupt files were found.

2. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them. Details are included in the CBS.Log %WinDir%\\Logs\\CBS\\CBS.log.

3. Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.

If your report shows message 1 or 2, then congrats! Your system is either fine or it's been repaired successfully. If message 3 shows up, there are additional steps to be taken, which are beyond the scope of this article.

Wrapping Up

Running the System File Checker is highly recommended for maintaining the health of your Windows PC. Prevention is better than cure, and this scan can prevent minor issues from evolving into full-blown problems. By following the steps outlined in this how-to guide, you'll be able to proactively identify and rectify issues before they severely impact your computer's performance.

Remember, a smoothly-running computer is key to enjoying a hassle-free digital experience. Stay vigilant, and run regular system checks to ward off any potential issues. Your PC will thank you for it!