What Is the F Parameter for Chkdsk?
Chkdsk is a DOS command that checks the computer's hard disks for errors including bad sectors and cross-linked files. The "F" parameter stands for "fix," and instructs Chkdsk to automatically repair files while it is running.
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Purpose
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Run "Chkdsk /F" when your computer's disk performance is slow, or if you receive an error message about bad sectors on your hard disk. Use Chkdsk /F for maintenance if you have installed and removed many applications over time.
Command Syntax
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Double-click the MS-DOS command prompt icon or click the Start menu and type "cmd" into the Search box to open a command prompt within Windows. Type "Chkdsk C: /F" into the command prompt to check the drive status and repair file errors on the C: drive.
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Considerations
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Close any applications you have running prior to running Chkdsk with the F parameter. Chkdsk /F may make changes to the file allocation table on your computer. Create a recovery disk or back up any critical files prior to running the program.
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References
Resources
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