How to Use System File Checker in Windows 11

System File Checker (a built-in Windows 11 tool known as SFC) scans your computer for missing or broken system files and replaces them automatically. Running the `sfc /scannow` command in Command Prompt (a text-based tool for running commands) lets you fix random app crashes and startup errors without reinstalling Windows.

This scan takes about 5 to 15 minutes to finish depending on your PC speed. If the tool finds damaged files, it swaps them out with working copies stored safely in a backup folder on your drive.

Step 1Open Command Prompt as an Administrator

Opening Command Prompt as an administrator gives sfc scannow windows 11 the special permission it needs to check and fix important system files. Click the taskbar search icon, type command prompt, right-click the result, and select run as administrator to open the tool with full system rights.

Here’s how to do it:

• Search Bar 🔍 Method: Look for the search 🔍 icon or box on your Windows taskbar (usually at the bottom of your screen). Click on it.
• Type “Command Prompt”: Start typing the words Command Prompt into the search 🔍 box. You’ll see results appear as you type.
• Right-Click for Options: When “Command Prompt” appears in the search 🔍 results, right-click on 🖱️ it. A small menu will pop up.
• Select “Run as administrator”: Choose the option that says “Run as administrator” from the menu.
• Grant Permission: A box might appear asking, “Do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device?” Click “Yes.”

Step 2Run the DISM Tool First

Running the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool (a utility that repairs the Windows system image) beforehand ensures sfc scannow windows 11 has a clean slate to find and fix corrupted files. Type the required repair command into your open administrative window and press Enter before running the file checker.

Here’s how to run DISM:

• Make sure Command Prompt is Open: You should still have the administrator Command Prompt window open from the last step.
• Type the DISM Command: Carefully type the following command into the Command Prompt window. Pay close attention to the spaces:
  

  System File Checker scans your computer for corrupted system files. This tool then replaces any found corrupted files to fix Windows.

  Let's run SFC:

  • Stay in Command Prompt: Keep the administrator Command Prompt window open. If you closed it, open it again as an administrator (go back to Step 1).
  • Type the SFC Command: Now, type the following command into the Command Prompt. Again, watch the spaces:
    

    sfc /scannow

    
    
  • Press Enter: Hit the Enter key.

  

  Reference:

  https://support.microsoft.com/en-US/Windows/Experience/backup-recovery/using-system-file-checker-in-windows

  Summary

  The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows tool that finds and fixes corrupted system files on your computer.

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