Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files - Microsoft Support. Windows 8.1 Windows 8.1 Enterprise Windows 8.1 Pro Windows 8 More... If some Windows functions aren't working or Windows crashes, use the System File Checker to scan Windows and restore your files.

Windows 11 Windows 10. 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.

In the File Download dialog box, click Run or Open, and then follow the steps in the Windows Security Troubleshooter. Notes: This troubleshooter might be in English only. However, the automatic fix also works for versions of Windows in other languages.

If you trust a file, file type, folder, or a process that Windows Security has detected as malicious, you can stop Windows Security from alerting you or blocking the program by adding the file to the exclusions list. Caution: Only do this for files that you're confident are safe.

This article describes the Windows File Protection (WFP) feature. More Information. Windows File Protection (WFP) prevents programs from replacing critical Windows system files. Programs must not overwrite these files because they are used by the operating system and by other programs.

You can use installation media (a USB flash drive or DVD) to install a new copy of Windows, perform a clean installation, or reinstall Windows. To create installation media, go to the software download website, where you'll find step-by-step instructions.

How to remove malware or viruses from my Windows 10 PC - Microsoft Support. Windows 10. Microsoft Defender Antivirus and Windows Firewall are on your device to help protect it from viruses and other malicious software.

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. Learn about the recovery options in Windows.

To open File Explorer in Windows 11, select File Explorer on the taskbar or press the Windows logo key + E on your keyboard. Here are some things to try if File Explorer won't open. Check for updates. Restart your device. Reset your PC.

Security Windows 10 Windows 11. Windows Security (Windows Defender Security Center in previous versions of Windows) enables you to scan specific files and folders to make sure they're safe. You'll be notified immediately if any threats are found.