How in the Tech

Keep Vista’s Integrity with System File Checker

We all do boneheaded things from time to time, its what makes us human. Unfortunately, today I realized I am human. I was doing some file system cleaning on my Vista Media Center in an effort to free up some space on the Windows partition when I accidentally deleted a critical folder for Media Center’s functionality. Even though UAC prompted me before going forward, it wasn’t enough of a deterrent to my determination. Not wanting to reinstall Vista I turned to an old friend - System File Checker. System File Checker checks that all critical Windows files are intact and not corrupted. It’s a handy tool to remember if your Windows installation is acting up - after you’ve done the spyware and anti-virus scans. Often times SFC can save you from a complete reinstall.

Here is how to initiate the check.

1. Open a Command Prompt with Administrative privileges. From the Vista Start Menu type cmd in the search box. Your search results will return the Command Prompt; right-click and select Run as administrator.



2. Begin the System File Checker from the Command Prompt with sfc /scannow. You’ll soon see the system scan will begin.



3. The scan will take some time as it replaces/repairs any problems. You’ll be prompted for your Vista installation DVD when necessary - the system recovery disk that may have come with your PC is likely not suitable for this, but it’s worth a shot if that is all you have.

System File Checker saved the day for me and hopefully it proves kind to you as well.

If you want to be notified the next time I write something please subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for reading!

Related Posts

• Opening Command Prompts Anywhere in Vista
• “Open Command Window Here” Everywhere and Always in Vista
• Using the Remote Shutdown Command in Windows
• Using drfgui to Disable Vista’s Automatic Disk Defrag
• Using CDs/DVDs like Flash Drives in Vista

© 2008 How in the TECH.