Windows 11, the latest Microsoft operating system release, offers various features and improved performance. However, like any software, it is not immune to errors, and one common issue that users might encounter is corrupted files. When these vital files become damaged or go missing, you should take action to Repair Corrupted System Files.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of repairing corrupted system files on Windows 11, ensuring that your PC runs smoothly once again.
Repair Corrupted System Files: Best Fixes
Corrupted system files can cause various problems on your Windows 11 PC, including:
- Blue screens of death (BSOD)
- Apps that won’t open
- Slow performance
- System instability
If you’re experiencing any of these problems, you may have corrupted system files. There are a few ways to repair corrupted system files on Windows 11. Before going through the detailed process, we suggest you perform these quick steps:
- Update your Windows.
- Run the SFC (System File Checker) Utility.
- Run the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) Tool.
After performing these quick steps, follow the detailed methods below to repair Corrupted system files on Windows 11.
1. Run the CHKDSK scan:
The CHKDSK (Check Disk) scan is a Windows tool that can scan your hard drive for errors. If it finds any errors, it can try to repair them. To run the CHKDSK scan, follow these steps:
- Right-click on the Windows Logo and select Terminal (Admin).
- Type the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk /f /r
The CHKDSK scan will take a few minutes to complete. If it finds any errors, it will try to repair them.
This command executes multiple tests that can check your PC’s drives. To ensure there are no corrupted sectors, the /r and /scan modifiers scan and fix the sectors on your storage drive.
2. Run Startup Repair:
- Press the Win + I key to open the Settings app.
- Navigate to System > Recovery.
- Click on Restart now in the Advanced startup section.
- Now, select Troubleshoot.
- Then go to Advanced options, and click on Startup Repair.
Startup Repair will now scan your PC for problems and try to fix them.
- If Startup Repair can fix the problem, your PC will restart.
- If Startup Repair cannot fix the problem, you may need to contact Microsoft support for help.
3. Use the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool:
Sometimes, issues with the system files can be caused by faulty or failing RAM. The Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool can help identify and fix memory-related problems. Here’s how to use it:
- Press the Win + R key to open the Run dialog box.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
mdsched.exe
- In the Windows Memory Diagnostic window, select one of the following options:
- Restart now and check for problems (recommended): This will immediately restart your PC and initiate the memory diagnostic process.
- Check for problems the next time I start my computer: This option will schedule the memory diagnostic to run the next time you restart your PC.
- If you choose the first option, your computer will restart, and the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool will check your RAM for errors.
- The tool will run multiple tests to detect memory issues. This process may take some time to complete.
- Once the test finishes, your computer will restart again.
- After the restart, log in to your Windows account, and you can view the memory test results in the Windows Notification Center.
If the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool detects any memory problems, you may need to replace the faulty RAM module to ensure a stable and error-free system.
4. Perform a Windows 11 Reset:
If all else fails, you can perform a Windows 11 reset, which reinstalls Windows while keeping your personal files, settings, and applications intact. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app like before.
- Navigate to System > Recovery.
- Click on Reset PC in the Reset this PC section.
- Choose Keep my files to retain your personal data or Remove everything for a complete reset.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the reset process.
Remember to back up your important files before performing a reset, as it will remove any installed applications that are not part of the original Windows installation.
Additional tips:
- Perform a System Restore to roll back to the previous state.
- Use Windows 11 Installation Media to repair corrupted system files.
- To prevent corrupted system files, keeping your PC up to date with the latest Windows updates is important.
- You should also avoid installing third-party software from untrusted sources.
- If you’re using a USB drive, ensure it’s formatted correctly.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your system files healthy and prevent them from becoming corrupted.
Corrupted system files on Windows 11 can disrupt the smooth operation of your PC, but with detailed knowledge of these repair methods, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix these issues. Remember to create backups regularly to secure your essential data and system settings. By following this guide, you can repair faulty system files and keep your Windows 11 experience running flawlessly.
