How to Fix Corrupted Windows or Windows Updates

By TS Jordan

i Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

While magnetic-based storage methods like hard drives are fairly reliable, file corruption can happen, either by a virus, hardware failure or degeneration of the equipment. When file corruption strikes either your Windows core system files or your Windows Update files, you would be wise to reinstall those files as soon as possible to keep your system fully functional and protected against online threats.

Windows Update Files

Step 1

Click on the "Start" menu, access the "Control Panel," and select the option to "Add/Remove Programs."

Step 2

Scroll through the list until you find the entry for the corrupted update file.

Step 3

Click on the update file and select the "Uninstall" or "Remove" button.

Step 4

Click on the "Start" menu, open the "All Programs" list, and select "Windows Update" to re-download the needed files.

Windows Files

Step 1

Insert the Windows CD into your CD-ROM.

Step 2

Restart the machine and boot from CD by pressing any key as the computer loads.

Step 3

Navigate through the installation screens until you are presented with the choice to perform a "Repair" installation.

Step 4

Choose the drive upon which Windows is installed and press "R" to repair that drive, fixing your corrupted Windows files.

×