How to Run a Scan Disk

There are numerous tools you can use to keep your Windows computer running well and even improve its performance. Several of these tools come installed in Windows. Scan Disk is one such utility. Scan Disk will check your computer for damaged files or other problems and repair most errors automatically. If you run Scan Disk and add it to your regular computer maintenance routine, your computer will stay in top condition.

Instructions

1. 

   Click the "Start" button and then click to open "My Computer." Depending on which version of Windows you have, "My Computer" may be on your desktop. If you are using Windows Vista, it is simply called "Computer."

2. 

   Right-click "Local Disk (C:)" and click on "Properties." The Properties dialog box will open.

3. 

   Click the "Tools" tab of the Properties dialog box. Under "Error Checking," click the "Check Now" button. In the Check Local Disk (C:) dialog box, select both the "Automatically Fix File System Errors" and the "Scan for and Attempt Recovery of Bad Sectors" check boxes.

4. 

   Click the "Start" button. If you see a message that says "Windows Can't Check the Disk While It's in Use," choose the option that allows Scan Disk to run the next time you start your computer.

5. 

   Restart your computer so that Scan Disk can run. Run Scan Disk on a monthly basis.

Tips & Warnings

• Scan Disk can take as long as several hours to run. Plan to run Scan Disk when you will not be using your computer. You may want to run it before you leave the office at the end of the day or before you go to bed at night.