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How to Fix File System Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions That Work

File system errors on Windows 11 can be frustrating and may cause issues accessing files or running applications. These errors often indicate problems with your hard drive or the way Windows manages files. Fortunately, many file system errors can be fixed with simple troubleshooting steps.

In this guide, you will find easy-to-follow instructions designed to help you resolve file system errors on Windows 11. No advanced technical knowledge is required. Each step explains why it is important and how to perform it correctly.

Whether you’re encountering error messages like “File System Error (-1073741819)” or other related issues, these solutions will help you get your system back to normal. Let’s begin by making sure your system is ready for troubleshooting.

Follow the steps carefully and try them in order, starting from the simplest fixes to more advanced options.

Quick Note Before You Start

  • Make sure your Windows 11 is updated to the latest version. Updates often fix bugs that cause file system errors.
  • Back up important files before running any repair tools, especially if your drive shows signs of physical damage.
  • Ensure you have administrator rights on your PC, as some fixes require elevated permissions.
  • Close all running programs before starting the troubleshooting process to avoid conflicts.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer

Sometimes, a simple restart can clear temporary glitches causing file system errors. Restarting refreshes system processes and can resolve minor conflicts.

  1. Click the Start button in the lower-left corner.
  2. Select the Power icon.
  3. Click Restart.

After the computer restarts, check if the error still appears.

Step 2: Run the Windows File System Checker (SFC)

The System File Checker tool scans and repairs corrupted system files that may cause file system errors. It is a built-in Windows utility that can fix many common issues.

  1. Press Windows key + S and type cmd.
  2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

This scan may take some time. Do not close the window until the verification completes.

Once finished, you will see a message indicating if any files were repaired. Restart your computer and check if the problem persists.

Step 3: Use the Check Disk Tool (CHKDSK)

Check Disk scans your hard drive for errors and attempts to fix them. File system errors are often caused by bad sectors or corrupted file allocation tables, which CHKDSK can repair.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator again (see Step 2).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
chkdsk C: /f /r /x

Explanation of parameters:

  • C: specifies the drive to check (replace with your system drive letter if different).
  • /f fixes errors on the disk.
  • /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable information.
  • /x forces the drive to dismount before checking.

You may be asked to schedule the scan on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter. Restart your PC to allow the scan to run.

Step 4: Update or Reinstall Problematic Drivers

Sometimes file system errors happen because of outdated or corrupted device drivers, especially for storage controllers or disk drives.

  1. Press Windows key + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Disk drives and IDE ATA/ATAPI controllers sections.
  3. Right-click each device and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the prompts.
  5. If updating doesn’t help, you can choose Uninstall device and then restart your computer. Windows will reinstall the driver automatically.

Step 5: Run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Tool

DISM repairs the Windows system image, which can fix deeper system corruption that SFC might not handle.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Type and run these commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

These commands check and repair the Windows image. The process may take several minutes. After it finishes, restart your PC.

Step 6: Perform a System Restore

If the file system error started recently, restoring your system to an earlier point can undo recent changes that caused the issue.

  1. Press Windows key + S, type Restore, and choose Create a restore point.
  2. Click the System Restore button.
  3. Follow the wizard to select a restore point dated before the error occurred.
  4. Confirm and let Windows restore your system. Your files will not be affected.

Step 7: Reset or Reinstall Windows 11

If none of the above solutions work, you may need to reset or reinstall Windows. This will fix system errors by replacing corrupted files but can result in data loss if not backed up.

  • Go to Settings > System > Recovery.
  • Under Reset this PC, click Reset PC.
  • Choose to keep your files or remove everything, then follow the prompts.

This option should be your last resort after trying all other methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes file system errors on Windows 11?

File system errors can be caused by corrupted system files, bad sectors on the hard drive, outdated drivers, software conflicts, or sudden power outages.

Can I fix file system errors without losing data?

Yes, many tools like SFC, CHKDSK, and DISM repair errors without deleting your data. However, always back up important files before starting repairs.

How long does the CHKDSK scan take?

The duration depends on your disk size and condition. It can take from a few minutes to several hours, especially if bad sectors are found.

Is it safe to uninstall and reinstall drivers?

Yes, uninstalling and reinstalling drivers can fix corrupted drivers. Windows usually automatically reinstalls the correct drivers after a restart.

What if Windows won’t start because of file system errors?

You can boot into Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and run repair tools like SFC and CHKDSK from there. Access WinRE by turning your PC off and on three times.

When Nothing Works

If the file system error persists despite all troubleshooting, it might indicate hardware failure, such as a failing hard drive. In this case, consider these options:

  • Run a hardware diagnostic tool provided by your PC manufacturer.
  • Consult a professional technician to check your hard drive’s health.
  • Visit the official Microsoft support page for Windows 11 troubleshooting: Microsoft Support.
  • Consider replacing the hard drive if hardware tests confirm damage.

Conclusion

File system errors on Windows 11 can disrupt your workflow but are often fixable using built-in tools and simple steps. Starting with basic actions like restarting your PC, running SFC and CHKDSK scans, and updating drivers usually resolves the problem.

If the issue persists, advanced options like DISM repairs, system restore, or resetting Windows may be necessary. Always remember to back up your data before attempting repairs that might affect your files.

Following this step-by-step guide will help you troubleshoot and fix file system errors efficiently, keeping your Windows 11 PC running smoothly.

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