Running an SFC scan on Windows 10 is a helpful tool to check for and repair corrupted system files. To get started, you’ll need to open the Command Prompt as an administrator and enter a simple command. The process is straightforward and can help resolve various system issues.
How to Run SFC Scan Windows 10
Running an SFC (System File Checker) scan on Windows 10 is a method to identify and fix corrupted system files. Here are the steps to run an SFC scan effectively:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
To start, you need to open the Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
Right-click the Start button and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)." This ensures you have the necessary permissions to execute the SFC command.
Step 2: Type the SFC Command
Once the Command Prompt is open, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
The /scannow option tells the System File Checker to scan all protected system files and repair any issues it finds automatically.
Step 3: Wait for the Scan to Complete
The scanning process will begin, and you’ll need to wait for it to finish.
Depending on your system’s speed and the number of files, this process can take some time. Be patient and avoid interrupting it.
Step 4: Check Scan Results
After the scan completes, check the results displayed in the Command Prompt.
The tool will inform you if any corrupted files were found and whether they were repaired. If some files couldn’t be fixed, further troubleshooting might be needed.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Finally, restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect properly.
Restarting helps integrate any repairs made by the SFC scan into your system, ensuring optimal performance.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your computer should run smoother if any corrupted files were found and repaired.
Tips for Running SFC Scan Windows 10
- Make sure to run the Command Prompt as an administrator to have the required permissions.
- If the SFC scan doesn’t fix your issues, consider running a DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool) scan with the command
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. - Running the SFC scan in Safe Mode can sometimes be more effective if you encounter issues in normal mode.
- Keep your Windows 10 updated; outdated systems can have more corrupted files.
- If problems persist, you might need to consider a system restore or a complete Windows 10 reinstallation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an SFC Scan?
An SFC (System File Checker) scan checks for and repairs corrupted system files in Windows.
It ensures that essential files needed for your system to function correctly are intact and unaltered.
How Long Does an SFC Scan Take?
The time varies, but it generally takes between 10 to 30 minutes.
Factors like the speed of your computer and the number of files can affect the duration.
Can I Use My Computer While Running an SFC Scan?
It’s best to avoid heavy tasks while the scan runs.
Using your computer might slow down the process or cause interference, so minimal usage is recommended.
What Should I Do If SFC Finds Corrupted Files It Can’t Fix?
Consider running a DISM scan with the command DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
This tool can repair the Windows image, which often resolves issues that SFC can’t fix.
Is SFC Scan Safe?
Yes, running an SFC scan is safe and a recommended troubleshooting step.
It only checks and repairs system files, so it won’t harm your personal files or settings.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the SFC command.
- Wait for the scan to complete.
- Check scan results.
- Restart your computer.
Conclusion
Running an SFC scan on Windows 10 is a vital step in maintaining your system’s health. This simple process can diagnose and often fix issues, ensuring your computer runs smoothly. By following our easy-to-understand steps, you can confidently troubleshoot and repair minor hiccups in your operating system. If the SFC scan doesn’t resolve all problems, there are additional tools like DISM that can further help. Keep your system updated, and if necessary, don’t hesitate to seek further assistance. For more detailed guides and troubleshooting tips, stay tuned to our upcoming articles.
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.