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Even a power outage during an ongoing Windows update can bring unwarranted issues to your machine.

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Besides, force shutdowns can also modify system files hindering normal system operations.

And lets not get started on what malware can do to your PC.

In the best cases, you’ve got the option to get it done in a few minutes.

system file checker scan started

For others, you may need to manually help it out to fix the anomalies.

Its prescribed to initiate the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) before using the system file checker.

it’s possible for you to check this single-step process at ourrepair Windows with DISMguide.

cbs-log-file generated by system file checker scan

This indicates system files are intact, and there is nothing to do further.

However, you still landed on this article means there is something off with your system.

Alternatively, you’re free to run a free malware scan withMalwarebytes.

windows setup

This is another result where you dont need to do anything else.

However, you could check the log file at%WinDir%\Logs\CBS\CBS.log, indicating details of the repair.

Next, you could reboot and test whether the problem persists.

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Finally, follow the malware scan steps in the previous section.

Some problems require manual intervention, and this is one such issue.

First, kick off the log file by navigating to%WinDir%\Logs\CBS\CBS.log.

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Notably, this will show the results of recent scans performed on the subject computer.

As a best practice, run thesfc/scannowon the source to ensure the good health of the import.

This would look like this for the AcGenral.dll file in the System32>Windows>system drive.

Finally, replace the faulty file with the working one.

Reboot the PC to see if the issue is resolved.

This asks for a little more work from your side.

First,bootyour Windows PC in safe mode.

Safe mode starts your PC with the unavoidable drivers and basic utilities.

Once there, fire up the command prompt, and spin up the system file checker.

Afterward, proceed as per the previous sections based on the scan results.

SFC from Recovery Media

You will need tocreate a Windows recovery diskbefore proceeding.

Next, boot the faulty system from the recovery disk.

This can be done by pressing specific keys to enter theBIOSor system setup to boot from the recovery media.

These keys depend on your system manufacturer or motherboard brand if you have a custom PC.

Next, power on the unit and keep pressing that particular key during the logo screen.

Afterward, search for the boot order and pick the recovery disk to boot from it.

You will land on the Windows installation wizard.

Go through the initial setup asking for language, keyboard, etc.

On the second screen, click onRepair your system.

Next, enter intoTroubleshoot, followed by clickingCommand Prompton the subsequent screen.

Here, theoffbootdirandoffwindirrefers to the system drive and the Windows installation directory.

You should replacec:it with the appropriate letter as per the subject computer.

Let the scan complete and exit the system setup to boot normally.

Conclusion

System File Checker (SFC) repairs the system drive for any misconfigurations.

Besides, its best to use this after running the DISM tool to further improve the systems stability.

One can use this command internally from the same computer or externally if the system isnt booting.