In a Windows environment, maintaining the integrity of system files is crucial for ensuring the stability and security of the operating system. Corrupted or missing system files can lead to a variety of issues, including system crashes, application errors, and security vulnerabilities. This article will guide you through the process of verifying and repairing system file integrity using built-in Windows tools such as System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM).

Examples:

1. Using System File Checker (SFC):

   The System File Checker (SFC) is a utility in Windows that allows users to scan and restore corruptions in system files. Here’s how you can use it:

   Step-by-Step Instructions:

   a. Open Command Prompt as an Administrator:

   • Press Win + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)".

   b. Run the SFC Scan:

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     sfc /scannow

   • The scan may take some time to complete. Once finished, it will provide a report of any issues found and whether they were fixed.

   Sample Output:

   Beginning system scan. This process will take some time.
   
   Beginning verification phase of system scan.
   Verification 100% complete.
   
   Windows Resource Protection found corrupt files and successfully repaired them.

2. Using Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM):

   If SFC is unable to fix the issues, you can use DISM to repair the Windows image. Here’s how:

   Step-by-Step Instructions:

   a. Open Command Prompt as an Administrator:

   • Press Win + X and select "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)".

   b. Run the DISM Scan:

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth

   • This command checks for corruption but does not fix anything.

   c. Scan the Health of the Image:

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth

   • This command scans the image for corruption.

   d. Restore the Health of the Image:

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

   • This command repairs the image. It may take some time to complete.

   Sample Output:

   Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool
   Version: 10.0.19041.572
   
   Image Version: 10.0.19041.572
   
   [==========================100.0%==========================]
   The restore operation completed successfully.
   The operation completed successfully.