Use chkdsk (GUI or chkdsk C: /f /r) to fix file-system errors, run SFC and DISM to repair system files, and use "Defragment and Optimize Drives" - but avoid defragmenting SSDs manually. Monitor drive health with S.M.A.R.T. tools and keep Windows Update enabled to apply security patches. Always back up before repairs.

Why run disk checks and updates?

Regular disk checks and system updates reduce crashes, prevent data loss, and keep your PC secure. Modern Windows still provides built-in tools to check file-system integrity, optimize storage, and apply security patches. Back up important data before running repairs.

Run chkdsk to find and fix file-system errors

You can use the graphical tool or the command line.
  • GUI: Open File Explorer, right-click the drive (usually C:), choose Properties -> Tools -> Error checking -> Check. Follow prompts; Windows may schedule repairs at the next restart.
  • Command line (Admin): Open an elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell and run:
chkdsk C: /f /r

/f fixes errors; /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable information (this can be slow and may require a reboot). For SSDs, omit /r unless you suspect serious issues.

Repair OS files with SFC and DISM

If system files are corrupted, run these tools from an elevated command prompt:
  • sfc /scannow - checks and repairs protected system files.
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth - repairs the component store before rerunning SFC if needed.
Run DISM first when SFC cannot fix problems.

Defragmenting vs. optimizing (HDD vs SSD)

Traditional defragmentation helps mechanical HDDs by reducing disk head movement. On modern Windows, use the built-in "Defragment and Optimize Drives" tool (search "defrag" in Start).
  • HDD: Run Optimize Drives monthly or when fragmentation is high.
  • SSD: Do NOT run full defragmentation. Windows automatically performs TRIM and weekly optimization appropriate for SSDs. Frequent manual defragging can reduce SSD lifespan.
You generally don't need Safe Mode to optimize drives; perform optimization when the PC is idle.

Monitor physical disk health (S.M.A.R.T.)

Chkdsk checks logical errors; it won't predict imminent hardware failure. Check drive health using S.M.A.R.T. monitoring tools or manufacturer utilities (for example, CrystalDiskInfo or vendor diagnostic software). If S.M.A.R.T. reports reallocated sectors or failing attributes, prepare to replace the drive and restore backups.

Keep Windows updated

Security patches and feature updates arrive through Windows Update. On Windows 10/11, open Settings -> Windows Update and install available updates. Enable automatic updates to reduce exposure to known vulnerabilities.

If updates fail repeatedly, note any error codes and consult Microsoft's update troubleshooting resources.

Quick best-practices

  • Back up before repair operations.
  • Prefer chkdsk /f for routine repairs; use /r only when necessary.
  • Let Windows handle SSD optimization; manually optimize HDDs monthly.
  • Monitor health with S.M.A.R.T. tools and replace drives that show hardware failure signs.
  • Keep Windows up to date and enable automatic updates.

FAQs about Scan

How do I run chkdsk without rebooting?
If the drive is in use (like C:), chkdsk usually needs a reboot to run. You can run chkdsk on secondary drives without rebooting. For the system drive, schedule chkdsk and restart when prompted.
Should I defragment my SSD?
No. Windows manages SSDs with TRIM and periodic optimization. Traditional defragmentation can shorten SSD lifespan and is unnecessary.
How often should I optimize my hard drive?
For mechanical HDDs, run Optimize Drives monthly or when you notice performance drops. Windows can also schedule this automatically.
When should I use SFC and DISM?
Run sfc /scannow when system files are corrupted. If SFC cannot repair files, run DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth first, then rerun SFC.
How can I tell if a drive is failing?
Use S.M.A.R.T. monitoring or vendor diagnostics. Signs of failure include repeated bad sectors, frequent crashes, slow I/O, and increasing S.M.A.R.T. error counts - back up and replace the drive promptly.