How to Use System File Checker in Windows 11

System File Checker (SFC) scans and fixes corrupted Windows system files, helping resolve issues like app crashes or a slow PC.

This built-in Windows tool acts like a digital mechanic, finding and repairing the broken files that cause your computer to misbehave.

Using SFC is straightforward and can often prevent the need for a complete Windows reinstall.

For instance, running SFC with the command `sfc /scannow` can repair integrity violations on your Windows 11 system.

Step 1Open Command Prompt as an Administrator

To use the System File Checker, you first need to open Command Prompt with administrator 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

Before running the System File Checker, it’s best to run the DISM tool first to fix any issues with Windows image files.

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:
  
  💻Code

  Copy

  DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth

  
  
• Press Enter: Hit the Enter key on your keyboard.

Step 3Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Now it’s time to run the System File Checker, which scans your computer for corrupted system files and replaces them.

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:
  
  💻Code

  Copy

  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.