How to Repair the Windows Screensaver

Each screensaver in Windows has its own individual file containing the graphics and information required for the screensaver to operate. These files are loaded into memory by the Windows screensaver component. This executable file reads the data from the individual files and displays the images that you actually see while your screensaver is running. If none of your screensavers is working, you will need to repair this executable. Windows has a utility that will scan and replace any missing or corrupt files in the system directory. You can use this utility to repair the Windows screensaver component.

Instructions

1. Insert the Windows 7 installation disc into your CD\DVD drive. Click the "Cancel" button if you see an "Autorun" or "Install Windows" dialog window.

2. Click "Start" and type "CMD" in the "Start-Search" box. Right-click "CMD" from the search results list and then click "Run as Administrator." Click "Yes" in the "User Account Control" dialog. This runs the Windows Command Prompt utility with administrative permissions.

3. Type "Sfc /scannow" in the Command Prompt and press "Enter." This launches the System File Checker tool. You should see a line that says "Beginning System Scan." This tool will scan your computer for corrupt or missing files and replace them automatically with the ones located on your Windows disc. When the System File Checker finishes, you will see a message that says "Windows Resource Protection Found Corrupt Files and Successfully Repaired Them" displayed in the Command Prompt.

4. Close the Command Prompt and restart your computer after the utility has finished the scan and repair process.

References

• Microsoft Support: How to Use the System File Checker Tool to Troubleshoot Missing or Corrupted System Files on Windows Vista or on Windows 7
• Microsoft MSDN: System File Checker