Learn how to create a recovery drive for Windows 11 or Windows 10 using an empty USB drive and the Backup and Restore tool. A recovery drive can help you reinstall Windows 11 if your PC ever experiences a major issue such as hardware failure.

Run the System File Checker tool (SFC.exe) To do this, follow these steps: Open an elevated command prompt. To do this, do the following as your appropriate: If you are running Windows 10, Windows 8.1 or Windows 8, first run the inbox Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool prior to running the System File Checker.

How To. Learn how to reset your Microsoft Surface and solve problems using a USB recovery drive or Surface recovery image. true. f3546e1d-9487-5f89-7e26-3d495086d8b5,d383b26c-f150-6220-8f1b-e8aa325d9727. en-US. Related topics. ×. Surface recovery topics. Restore or reset Surface. Create and use a USB recovery drive. Boot Surface from a USB device.

To use system recovery options, you'll need a Windows installation disc or access to the recovery options provided by your computer manufacturer. If you don't have either of those choices, you can create a system repair disc to access system recovery options.

If you're using the Windows installation disc or USB flash drive, click Repair your computer. Select the Windows installation you want to repair, and then click Next. On the System Recovery Options menu, click a tool to open it. Learn how to access system recovery options in Windows.

Shrink a basic volume. Change a drive letter. Troubleshoot Disk Management. To open Disk Management, right-click (or long-press) the Start button and select Disk Management. If you need help freeing up space on your PC, see Disk cleanup in Windows or Free up drive space in Windows.

Select Start > Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters , or select the Find troubleshooters shortcut at the end of this topic, and then select Additional troubleshooters. Select the type of troubleshooting you want to do, then select Run the troubleshooter.

If you run into problems with your PC running Windows, a USB recovery drive can help you troubleshoot and fix those problems, even if your PC won't start. Your PC might have come with a recovery image that’s used to refresh or reset your PC.