Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files — by Microsoft Support

advancedpageLink only (©)

Explains how to use DISM and System File Checker to find and repair damaged Windows system files, plus how to read the CBS log and replace a stubborn file by hand.

Quick steps

Open an elevated Command Prompt and run the DISM restore-health command first
Run sfc /scannow and let it finish
If files could not be repaired, check the CBS log
As a last resort, take ownership of the file and copy in a known good one

Paraphrased from the source. Menus can differ by version, so check the original for full details.

Read the full article on support.microsoft.com

Source: Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files by Microsoft Support. Licence: Link only (©).

Source reviewed: 2026-11-02
Link checked: 2026-11-02
Tested hands-on: Not by Oddbyte.Me

sfcdismcorrupted files

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