How to Fix Corrupted Files Using SFC & DISM in Windows OS

Corrupted system files can cause performance issues, crashes, or system errors in Windows. Fortunately, Windows provides built-in tools like SFC and DISM to fix these problems. Follow the steps below to repair your system files and restore stability.

Step 1: Run System File Checker (SFC)

The SFC (System File Checker) tool scans and repairs missing or corrupted system files.

How to Use SFC:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator

   • Press Win + S, type cmd, and click Run as administrator.

2. Run the SFC Scan

   • Type the following command and press Enter:
     bash

     CopyEdit

     sfc /scannow

   • This will start scanning and repairing corrupted system files. It may take some time.

3. Restart Your PC

   • Once the scan is complete, restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

Possible SFC Results:

• “Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and repaired them.” ✅ (Issue fixed)
• “Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations.” (No issues found)
• “Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files but was unable to fix some of them.” (Use DISM)

Step 2: Run Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

If SFC fails to fix corrupted files, DISM can restore the system image.

How to Use DISM:

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator (Same as Step 1)

2. Run the Following Commands One by One:

   • Scan the Windows Image:

     swift

     CopyEdit

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth


     (This checks for corruption in Windows image.)

   • Restore Health:

     swift

     CopyEdit

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth


     (This automatically fixes the detected corruption.)

3. Wait for the Process to Complete

   • This process can take 10–30 minutes. Do not close the window.

4. Restart Your PC

   • After completion, restart your system and run SFC /scannow again to verify the fix.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is the difference between SFC and DISM?

• SFC repairs corrupted or missing system files using cached copies.
• DISM fixes system image issues when SFC cannot repair files.

2. What if SFC and DISM don’t work?

• Run SFC and DISM in Safe Mode.
• Perform a Windows Repair Installation.
• Restore Windows using a System Restore Point.

3. Can I use SFC & DISM on Windows 10 & 11?

Yes, both SFC and DISM work on Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.

4. Does DISM require an internet connection?

Yes, /RestoreHealth may need to download fresh files from Windows Update.

5. Will these commands delete my personal files?

No, SFC and DISM only repair system files, keeping your personal data safe.

Conclusion

By using SFC and DISM, you can effectively fix corrupted Windows files and keep your system stable. If problems persist, consider resetting Windows or seeking advanced troubleshooting.