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When and how to Run a System Scan on Windows
Regular system scans are essential for maintaining the security and performance of Windows computers. By running the SFC /SCANNOW command, users can prevent damage to their system and safeguard sensitive data.
The System File Checker (SFC) program scans all protected system files and replaces corrupted or incorrect versions with the correct Microsoft versions. This procedure can be beneficial, especially if your computer displays error messages or runs erratically.
Running the SFC command is straightforward. For basic troubleshooting, you only need to run the scannow command. The SFC command can help fix multiple system errors, including common ones like the blue screen of death.
Remember, the SFC process may take approximately 5-10 minutes, so make sure not to turn off the computer or close out the Command Prompt during the scan.
Please note that these instructions are specific to Windows operating systems. If you are using a different operating system, the process may vary.
- Close any open programs on your desktop.
- Select the Start button.
- In the search box, enter Command Prompt.
- Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
- If prompted, enter an administrator password or select Allow.
- In the Command Prompt window, enter the command SFC /SCANNOW.
- Press Enter to begin the scan of all protected system files.
- Do not close the Command Prompt window until the scan is 100% complete.
This command scans all protected system files, identifying and replacing corrupted files with cached copies from the %WinDir%\System32\dllcache folder. This process ensures that essential system files are restored to their original state, resolving issues that may be causing Windows functions to malfunction or crash.
Regularly running the System File Checker (SFC) tool is beneficial for several reasons. It helps to troubleshoot and fix Windows-related errors, ensuring that the system remains stable and secure. The SFC tool can also automatically modify system settings and restore them to their default state if necessary, which can resolve a wide range of issues. Additionally, running the SFC /SCANNOW command can help prevent future problems by ensuring that all system files are in their correct state, even if no issues are currently present. So, the System Scan with SFC /SCANNOW is a great tool for maintaining a healthy and reliable Windows environment.
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