How to Fix Corrupt Files Without Reinstalling Windows
Corrupted Windows system files vary widely in their effects and solutions. Non-critical files may sometimes be replaced by a simple copy from a working Windows 7 system. Other corrupted files may make it impossible to easily fix the problem since they prevent you from logging on, starting windows or may have other serious but less obvious effects. Several ways exist to fix corrupted files depending on the tools you have available.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Insert your Windows installation DVD into your computer and restart the system. Use the "Repair" option of the Windows setup program. The repair option can automatically detect and fix a variety of common problems, including corrupted system files.
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2
Start your computer with a Linux Live-CD or USB stick running Ubuntu, Fedora or any other Linux system capable of reading a Windows drive. Use the Linux system to copy a fresh version of the file from a working Windows system.
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3
Remove the hard drive from your computer. Place it in an external enclosure, or install it directly into another Windows system. Replace the corrupted file using the working Windows system.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The search may take a while but it will find file in question so hang in there.
If you replace the corrupt file yourself from another Windows system, be sure the system is running the same version, service pack and updates as the target system, otherwise it may not work.
