Getting rid of corrupted files in Windows 10 is simpler than you think. You’ll need to use a combination of built-in tools and a few manual steps. First, you’ll run a system file checker, then use the DISM tool, and lastly, you might manually remove stubborn files. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step.
Step by Step Tutorial on How to Get Rid of Corrupted Files in Windows 10
This section will guide you through the process of identifying and removing corrupted files in Windows 10 using built-in system tools and some manual methods.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
First, open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Right-click on the Start menu and choose ‘Command Prompt (Admin)’ or ‘Windows PowerShell (Admin)’. This ensures you have the necessary permissions to execute system commands.
Step 2: Run the System File Checker (SFC)
Run the System File Checker by typing sfc /scannow and pressing Enter.
The SFC tool scans for and attempts to repair corrupted system files. This process can take some time, so be patient and do not interrupt it.
Step 3: Review the SFC Results
After SFC completes, review its results.
If SFC finds and repairs files, it will notify you. If it can’t fix all corrupted files, it will let you know and provide a log for further investigation.
Step 4: Run the DISM Tool
If SFC can’t fix the files, run the DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) by typing DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and pressing Enter.
The DISM tool checks for issues within the Windows image and repairs them. This may take a while, so give it time to finish.
Step 5: Re-run SFC
After running DISM, re-run the SFC command: sfc /scannow.
This ensures any additional issues found by DISM are fixed. It’s a good double-check to ensure your system files are in good shape.
Step 6: Manually Remove Stubborn Files
For files that resist repair, manually locate and delete them.
Identify these files using the SFC logs. Navigate to their folder locations, and delete them. If Windows prevents deletion, use Safe Mode to remove them.
After completing these steps, your computer should be free from corrupted files and run smoother. You may need to restart your computer for changes to take effect.
Tips for How to Get Rid of Corrupted Files in Windows 10
- Use the Command Prompt as an Administrator to ensure all commands execute properly.
- Be patient with SFC and DISM scans; they can take a while, but they’re thorough.
- Always back up important files before deleting anything manually.
- Regularly update Windows to reduce the risk of file corruption.
- Use a reliable antivirus program to prevent corruption from malware.
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Get Rid of Corrupted Files in Windows 10
What causes file corruption in Windows 10?
File corruption can occur due to power failures, software crashes, hardware issues, or malware infections.
Can corrupted files be recovered?
Some corrupted files can be repaired using tools like SFC and DISM, but severe corruption might make them unrecoverable.
Is it safe to delete corrupted files?
Generally, yes. However, always back up your data before deleting anything to avoid accidental data loss.
How often should I run SFC and DISM?
Running these tools monthly or when you notice system issues can help maintain system health.
What if SFC and DISM don’t fix the problem?
If these tools don’t fix the issue, consider restoring your system to an earlier point or performing a clean Windows installation.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Run the System File Checker (SFC).
- Review the SFC results.
- Run the DISM Tool.
- Re-run SFC.
- Manually remove stubborn files.
Conclusion
Getting rid of corrupted files in Windows 10 isn’t as daunting as it might seem. With tools like SFC and DISM at your disposal, most issues can be resolved without much hassle. Remember to always back up important data before making significant changes to your system. Regular maintenance, like running these tools periodically and keeping your system updated, can prevent many problems before they start.
If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to seek professional help or consult Microsoft’s support resources. Keeping a clean and healthy system not only improves performance but also extends the lifespan of your computer. For further reading, explore topics like regular system maintenance and advanced troubleshooting techniques.
Happy computing!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.