System or application crashes are common when using a Windows computer. While there are many causes for it, some of the most common are system damage, corrupt system file, missing system file and alterations due to new software installation etc.
System File Checker (SFC) is a vital tool in Windows that checks the system for corruptions and if any, restores them. Using this tool might seem complicated at first, but is actually a simple process that you can use anytime after doing it once. Using this command you can scan, check and repair all corrupted or damaged files on Windows 7. When a corrupt file is found, this command prompts the system to remove and replace that file with a newer version. In this article, we will discuss a few methods to repair Windows 7 with Sfc /Scannow.
How To Use Sfc /Scannow to Repair Windows 7
- The first step is to open an elevated command prompt window.For Windows 7, click on Start and type cmd in Search box. Right click on cmd to get a drop down list. In the list, click on Run as administrator.
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- Once the Command Prompt Window opens, type sfc /scannow and press enter.
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The process of scanning the files for corrupted files takes about 10- 15 minutes. Do not close the command prompt window during this time.
- After the system performs 100% scan, there could be two outcomes. In case, no errors found, a message will flash “Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.”
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In case of an error found, the system will find the errors and repair them.
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There is also a possibility that the window shows a message that Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.
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In such cases, sfc /scannow command requires added information about the location of the drive where Windows 7 is installed.
Method 1 : Restart Your Computer In Safe mode and Enter Command Again
- Restart your computer
- While the system boots, press F8 key several times, until the Windows 7 logo appears on screen. Click on Repair Your Computer.
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- Select keyboard and language
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- In System Recovery Options click on Startup Repair
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- When the command prompt window opens, type the following command:
Format :Sfc /scannow /offbootdir=”letter of the drive where Windows 7 is installed” /offwindir=”letter of the drive where your Windows 7 is installed”windows.
For example, for Windows 7 installed in D:, type:
sfc /scannow /offbootdir=d:\ /offwindir=d: \windows
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Method 2 : Use Recovery Disc
If the above method does not work, you can use the recovery disc and followed by the sfc command.
- Install the original Windows 7 DVD in the disc tray.
- The system will prompt to press any key to boot from the CD or DVD. Select the language and keyboard option.
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3. Click on Repair your computer
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4. A window named System Recovery Options will open. Choose the first option and click on Next
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5. You will be asked to Choose a recovery tool. Click on Command Prompt at the end of the list
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6. Once the Command prompt window opens type
Format: Sfc /scannow /offbootdir=”letter of the drive where Windows 7 is installed” /offwindir=”letter of the drive where your Windows 7 is installed”windows.
Example: Assuming the Windows 7 is installed in D: you will type,
sfc /scannow /offbootdir=d:\ /offwindir=d: \windows
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Next Read: How to Fix Blue Screen of Death Error in Windows 7
Try any of these methods, next time you come across errors in your Windows 7 computer. Do let us know it this article was helpful.