How to fix corrupted files windows 11​？

Part 1: Introduction to Corrupted Files in Windows 11

Corrupted files in Windows 11 can cause a variety of problems, ranging from minor glitches such as application crashes to major system failures that prevent the operating system from booting properly. There are several reasons why files may become corrupted. Hardware issues, such as a faulty hard drive or bad memory, can lead to data errors. Software problems, like incorrect installations, virus or malware infections, and sudden power outages, can also corrupt files. Understanding the causes is the first step in effectively dealing with corrupted files.

Part 2: Identifying Corrupted Files

System Error Messages: When a file is corrupted, Windows may display error messages. For example, you might see an error message like “The application was unable to start correctly (0xc0000022)” when trying to launch a program. This indicates that one or more files related to the application are corrupted.

Application Crashes: If an application frequently crashes or freezes, it could be due to corrupted files within the application’s folder. For example, a graphics – editing program that crashes when you try to save a file may have a corrupted save – file module.

Disk Check Tools: Windows 11 has built – in disk check tools. You can use the Command Prompt to run the chkdsk command. This tool scans the hard drive for file system errors and bad sectors. If it finds any issues, it will report them and offer to fix some of them automatically. For example, if you suspect that the C: drive has corrupted files, you can open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type chkdsk C: /f. The /f parameter tells the tool to fix any errors it finds.

Part 3: Using System File Checker (SFC) to Fix Corrupted Files

The System File Checker is a powerful tool in Windows 11 for repairing corrupted system files.

Running SFC: To run the SFC, open the Command Prompt as an administrator. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will scan all protected system files and replace any corrupted files with a cached copy that is located in a compressed folder on the computer. The scanning process may take some time, depending on the size of your system and the number of files to be checked.

Interpret the Results: After the scan is complete, the tool will display a message indicating the result. If it says “Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations,” then no corrupted system files were found. However, if it reports that it found and fixed some corrupted files, you should note the file names and paths. This information can be useful if the problem persists and you need to further troubleshoot.

Part 4: Using DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) Tool

If the SFC tool doesn’t fully resolve the issue, the DISM tool can be used.

Repairing with DISM: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. First, run the command DISM /Online /Cleanup – Image /ScanHealth to check the health of the system image. Then, run DISM /Online /Cleanup – Image /RestoreHealth to repair any detected issues. The DISM tool works by downloading and replacing corrupted system files from the Windows Update servers.

DISM and Windows Update: It’s important to note that DISM requires a working Internet connection to download the necessary files. If you have any issues with Windows Update, it could affect the functionality of DISM. In such cases, you may need to troubleshoot your Windows Update settings before using DISM.

Part 5: Restoring from a System Restore Point

Windows 11 creates system restore points automatically, which can be used to revert the system to a previous state when the files were not corrupted.

Accessing System Restore: To access System Restore, type “System Restore” in the Windows search bar and select the appropriate option. In the System Restore window, click “Choose a different restore point” and select a restore point that was created before the files became corrupted.

Performing the Restore: Follow the on – screen instructions to perform the restore. It’s important to note that this process will undo any changes made to the system since the selected restore point was created. So, you may need to reinstall any software or update any settings that were changed after that time.

Part 6: Using Windows 11’s Automatic Repair Feature

If your computer is having trouble starting up due to corrupted files, Windows 11 has an automatic repair feature.

Accessing Automatic Repair: When your computer fails to start properly, Windows will automatically try to repair the problem. If it doesn’t succeed, you can access the Advanced Startup options. To do this, restart your computer and hold down the Shift key while clicking the “Restart” button in the Power menu. In the Advanced Startup options, select “Troubleshoot” > “Advanced options” > “Automatic Repair”.

How Automatic Repair Works: The automatic repair feature will scan for common problems and attempt to fix them. It may repair corrupted boot files or other system – critical files. If the repair is successful, your computer should start normally. If not, you may need to try other methods to fix the corrupted files.

Part 7: Reinstalling Windows 11

As a last resort, if all other methods fail, you can consider reinstalling Windows 11.

Backing up Your Data: Before reinstalling Windows, it’s crucial to back up all your important data. You can use an external hard drive, cloud storage, or other backup methods to ensure that your files are not lost during the reinstallation process.

Performing the Reinstall: There are several ways to reinstall Windows 11. You can use the installation media created from the official Windows website. Insert the USB drive or DVD containing the installation files and boot from it. Follow the on – screen instructions to install Windows. You can choose to do a clean install, which will erase all data on the selected drive, or an upgrade install, which will try to preserve your settings and files. However, a clean install is often recommended to ensure a fresh start and to completely get rid of any corrupted files.

Part 8: Preventing File Corruption in the Future

Once you have fixed the corrupted files, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from happening again.

Regular System Maintenance: Perform regular disk cleanups and defragmentations. Disk cleanups can remove temporary files and other unnecessary data that may be taking up space and causing system slowdowns. Defragmenting the hard drive can improve the performance and reliability of the system by organizing the files in a more efficient way.

Installing Updates: Keep your Windows 11 system and all installed software up to date. Microsoft releases regular updates that include bug fixes, security patches, and improvements that can help prevent file corruption. Third – party software developers also release updates to address any issues in their programs.

Using Antivirus and Anti – Malware Software: Install and regularly update reliable antivirus and anti – malware software. These programs can detect and prevent virus and malware infections, which are common causes of file corruption. Run regular scans to ensure that your system is free from any malicious software.

Proper Shutdown and Power Management: Always shut down your computer properly by using the Start menu or the power button in a controlled manner. Avoid sudden power outages by using an uninterruptible power su