System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows utility that helps you scan and restore corrupted system files. It is especially useful when your computer behaves unusually or some Windows features stop working. Using SFC can often fix issues without needing a full reinstall of the operating system.
This guide will walk you through how to use the System File Checker tool on Windows 11, step by step. Even if you are a beginner, the instructions here are simple and easy to follow.
By the end, you will know how to run SFC, understand what it does, and have options for more advanced troubleshooting if needed. Let’s get started!
No special software or technical background is required to follow this guide.
Quick Note Before You Begin
- Make sure you are logged into an account with administrator privileges. SFC requires admin rights to work properly.
- Close all open programs before starting the scan to avoid conflicts.
- Have a stable power source if you’re using a laptop, as the process might take some time.
- It is a good idea to create a system restore point or backup your important files before running system repair tools.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
The System File Checker runs through the Command Prompt, a tool where you can type commands directly to Windows. To open it with the necessary permissions, follow these steps:
- Click on the Start button or press the Windows key on your keyboard.
- Type
cmdorCommand Promptin the search bar. - In the search results, you will see Command Prompt. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
- If a User Account Control (UAC) prompt appears asking for permission, click Yes to allow.
Running Command Prompt as administrator is important because SFC needs full system access to scan and repair protected files.
Step 2: Run the System File Checker Scan
With the Command Prompt window open, you can now start the scan. This step involves typing a simple command:
- Type the following command exactly as shown:
sfc /scannow- Press Enter on your keyboard.
The tool will begin scanning all protected system files on your Windows installation. It will automatically replace any corrupted or missing files with the correct versions from a cached copy stored on your PC.
This process can take several minutes, so be patient and avoid closing the Command Prompt window while it runs.
Step 3: Review the Scan Results
When the scan finishes, you will see a message indicating the results. Here are the common messages and what they mean:
- Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations. – Your system files are fine, and no repairs were needed.
- Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them. – Problems were found and fixed automatically.
- Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them. – Manual repair steps may be needed (see advanced options below).
After the scan is complete, you can close the Command Prompt window if no further actions are needed.
Advanced Option: Check the SFC Scan Log
If SFC reports that some corrupted files could not be repaired, you can check the detailed log to learn which files are affected and plan your next steps.
To view the log:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator again.
- Type the following command and press Enter:
findstr /c:"[SR]" %windir%LogsCBSCBS.log > "%userprofile%DesktopSFC-details.txt"This command extracts the relevant information from the system log and saves it as a text file named SFC-details.txt on your desktop. You can open this file with Notepad to review the specific errors.
Alternative Method: Using Windows PowerShell
If you prefer, you can also run the System File Checker using Windows PowerShell:
- Click the Start button and type
PowerShell. - Right-click Windows PowerShell and select Run as administrator.
- Type the same command
sfc /scannowand press Enter.
The scan will run the same way as in Command Prompt.
FAQs About System File Checker in Windows 11
How long does the SFC scan usually take?
It typically takes 10 to 20 minutes, but this depends on your system speed and the number of files checked.
Will running SFC delete any of my personal files?
No, System File Checker only scans and repairs Windows system files. It does not affect your personal documents or programs.
What should I do if SFC cannot fix corrupted files?
If SFC cannot repair files, you can try running the DISM tool to fix the Windows image, then run SFC again. You can find instructions for DISM below.
Can I run SFC multiple times?
Yes, you can run the scan as many times as needed. Sometimes running it more than once can fix remaining issues.
Do I need an internet connection for SFC?
SFC uses cached files on your PC and generally does not require an internet connection. However, if files are missing from the cache, Windows Update may be used to download replacements.
When Nothing Works: Final Steps
If SFC and DISM tools fail to fix your system issues, consider these last resort options:
- Run the DISM Tool: Open Command Prompt as administrator and enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthThis tool repairs the Windows image and can solve deeper problems.
- Use System Restore: Restore your PC to a previous point in time when everything worked correctly.
- Reset Windows 11: This option reinstalls Windows while keeping your files or removing everything for a fresh start.
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Microsoft support site for guided help.
Conclusion
System File Checker is a powerful, easy-to-use tool to fix corrupted or missing Windows system files. Running sfc /scannow in an administrator Command Prompt is the first and simplest step toward repairing common system errors.
Remember to run it carefully, review the results, and use advanced options like DISM or log files if needed. This utility often saves time and avoids more complicated repairs.
With this guide, you now have a clear understanding of how to use System File Checker in Windows 11 to keep your system healthy and running smoothly.