How to Fix File Errors

Check Disk is a Windows tool that verifies the system integrity, locates bad sectors on the hard drive, and recovers corrupt data when shutdowns or freezes occur. You can find this utility on both laptops and desktops regardless of your version of Windows. You may be able to use this utility alone to fix file errors. You can also use this utility in combination with other tools native to Windows.

Instructions

Check Disk

1. Click "Start" and select "Computer" or "My Computer." Right-click on the "C:" drive and select "Properties" from the drop-down menu.

2. Click on the "Tools" tab in the "Properties" window. Click "Check Now" and wait for the check disk utility to complete.

3. Close the "Properties" window and use your computer normally.

Disk Cleanup

1. Click "Start" and click on "All Programs." Click "Accessories" and click on "System Tools." Click "Disk Cleanup" from the list of options available.

2. Select the drive you want to clean. This is usually the "C:" drive. Click "OK." Click to place a check mark next to the types of files you want the program to clean. Even if you check mark all of the options the utility will not delete any of your personal files. Click "OK" and click "Delete Files" in the next window to confirm.

3. Continue using your computer as normal.

Disk Defragmenter

1. Click "Start" and click on "All Programs." Click "Accessories" and click on "System Tools."

2. Click on "Disk Defragmenter." Wait for the window to appear and click "Defragment Now."

3. Wait for the application to finish. This process may take a couple of hours.

References

• Microsoft Windows: Check Your Hard Disk for Errors
• Microsoft Support: Description of the Disk Cleanup Tool in Windows XP
• Microsoft at Work: 5 Ways to Speed Up Your PC