Keeping Windows 10 healthy requires more than just regular software updates—you need to keep critical system files intact and clean. Corrupted or missing system files can cause strange errors, crashes, and slowdowns. Fortunately, Windows 10 includes a range of built-in and third-party tools for repairing these core files, ranging from simple commands to advanced troubleshooting. Let’s explore the most effective methods for system file repair, along with practical instructions and tips suitable for all experience levels.
Why Do System Files Get Corrupted on Windows 10?
Before diving into repair methods, it helps to understand why system files go bad in the first place. Common reasons include:
– Sudden power loss or improper shutdowns
– Malware infections
– Faulty hardware (RAM, hard drive)
– Failed Windows updates or driver installations
– Third-party software conflicts
Detecting system file problems early and acting quickly can prevent bigger issues.
What Are the Most Reliable System File Repair Techniques in Windows 10?
1. Using System File Checker (SFC)
System File Checker is a command-line utility that scans and restores missing or corrupted system files with copies from a protected cache.
How to Use SFC:
– Press the Windows key and type “cmd”.
– Right-click Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator”.
– Type: sfc /scannow and press Enter.
This process may take several minutes. If SFC finds errors it can’t fix, it will notify you. At this point, move to the next method.
2. Deploying DISM (Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool)
When SFC can’t repair files, DISM is often the next step. This tool checks and repairs the underlying Windows image, which SFC relies on.
How to Use DISM:
– Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
– Type: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and hit Enter.
Let the scan complete. Afterward, rerun sfc /scannow to restore any remaining files.
3. Restoring from Windows System Restore
If you suspect recent changes or installs caused the problem, System Restore can roll back Windows to a working state without affecting personal files.
How to Use System Restore:
– Press Windows key + R, type rstrui.exe, and press Enter.
– Follow the prompts to select a restore point dated before the issue began.
This is especially effective for undoing recent system file corruption.
4. Using Glary Utilities for Deep Cleanup and Repair
While built-in tools repair Windows files, third-party utilities like Glary Utilities can go further by cleaning up junk, fixing registry errors, and optimizing system performance—all of which help prevent further system file issues.
Key Glary Utilities Features for Windows Repair:
– 1-Click Maintenance: Scans for junk files, invalid shortcuts, registry issues, and more in one go.
– Registry Repair: Fixes and optimizes registry entries that may lead to system file errors.
– Disk Repair: Checks for hard drive errors that can cause file corruption.
– Startup Manager: Controls startup items to reduce conflicts that might harm system files.
How to Use Glary Utilities for System Repair:
– Download and install Glary Utilities from the official website.
– Open the program and select “1-Click Maintenance”.
– Let it scan and then click “Repair Problems”.
– For deeper issues, use the “Advanced Tools” tab to run Registry Repair or Disk Repair utilities.
Real-World Example: Combining SFC, DISM, and Glary Utilities
Suppose your PC starts showing “missing DLL” errors after a power outage. Start with sfc /scannow. If problems remain, run DISM. Finally, open Glary Utilities, perform a 1-Click Maintenance, and run Registry Repair. This layered approach often restores stability.
5. Reinstalling or Repairing Windows 10
If all else fails, you can perform a Windows 10 in-place upgrade, which refreshes system files without erasing your data or installed apps.
How to Do an In-Place Repair:
– Download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website.
– Run the tool and select “Upgrade this PC now”.
– Follow prompts to keep your files and apps.
This process replaces all system files and is often the last resort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I keep getting errors after using SFC and DISM?
Try running SFC and DISM in Safe Mode. If that still fails, use System Restore or a repair install.
Is Glary Utilities safe?
Yes, Glary Utilities is a reputable tool for cleaning and optimizing Windows. Always download from the official site.
Can these repairs fix blue screen (BSOD) errors?
Often, yes—especially if the BSOD is caused by corrupted system files. If hardware is failing, these repairs won’t help.
Conclusion
For most Windows 10 users, starting with SFC and DISM covers basic system file repairs. For deeper cleanup, Glary Utilities offers a user-friendly way to optimize and maintain system health, preventing future corruption. When all else fails, System Restore or a repair install can return your PC to working order. Combining these tools gives you the best chance of restoring your system without losing data or productivity.