Describes how to use the System File Checker tool to troubleshoot missing or corrupted system files in Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7 or Windows Vista.

This script is for Windows 10, version 2004 and later versions, including Windows 11. We recommend that you use this version of the script, because it is more robust but uses features available only on Windows 10, version 2004 and later versions.

Recover lost files on Windows 10. If you can’t locate a lost file from your backup, then you can use Windows File Recovery, which is a command line app available from the Microsoft Store. Use this app to try to recover lost files that have been deleted from your local storage device (including internal drives, external drives, and USB devices ...

If you cannot open your Outlook data file or suspect that the file is damaged, use the Inbox Repair tool (scanpst.exe) to repair errors in the file.

System File Checker is a utility in Windows that checks for problems with files on your computer. To run it, follow these steps: Make sure you've installed the latest updates for Windows, and then restart your machine. To find out more, read Update Windows.

This update automatically applies Safe OS Dynamic Update ( KB5034232) to the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) on a running PC to address a security vulnerability that could allow attackers to bypass BitLocker encryption by using WinRE. For more information, see CVE-2024-20666.

Windows Update troubleshooter. Automatically repair system files and settings to improve device security. Next steps. The device should now be able to update as expected without further steps. Microsoft is working on a resolution to prevent this issue and will provide an update in an upcoming release.

Restart your computer using the computer's power button. When prompted, press any key, and then follow the instructions that appear. On the Install Windows page, or on the System Recovery Options page, choose your language and other preferences, and then click Next.

Remove an installed Windows update. Reset your PC. Use the Startup Repair function. Use installation media to reinstall Windows 11. Use installation media to restore your PC. Use a recovery drive to restore or recover your PC. Go back to your previous version of Windows. Restore from a system restore point.

Connect a USB drive to your PC, select it, and then select Next. Select Create. Many files need to be copied to the recovery drive, so this might take a while. If you ever need to use the recovery drive to reinstall Windows 11 on your PC, see Recovery options in Windows for further instructions.