System File Checker Archives

Winsage

May 24, 2025

Best Windows apps this week

Microsoft has open-sourced the Windows Subsystem for Linux to improve Linux integration within the Windows environment. This week, there are various discounts on new applications and games available on the Microsoft Store. Notable new or improved applications include: - Edit: An open-source application from Microsoft, currently available as a standalone tool, designed for 64-bit Windows users with basic functionality and support for multiple file operations. - Everything: A search application that outperforms Windows Search, with the latest version enhancing defenses against DLL hijacking. - Fixyfier: A lightweight utility that provides access to essential repair features for troubleshooting and optimizing Windows systems.

Winsage

February 18, 2025

100+ run commands that can help you work efficiently on Windows

Windows 11 and 10 provide run commands that streamline workflow by allowing quick access to various system tools, applications, settings, and diagnostic features. Administrative Tools: - compmgmt.msc: Opens Computer Management. - devmgmt.msc: Launches Device Manager. - diskmgmt.msc: Opens Disk Management. - services.msc: Manages background services. - eventvwr.msc: Opens Event Viewer. - secpol.msc: Opens Local Security Policy. - regedit: Opens Registry Editor. - taskschd.msc: Opens Task Scheduler. - gpedit.msc: Opens Group Policy Editor (Pro & Enterprise). System Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: - msinfo32: Opens System Information. - dxdiag: Launches DirectX Diagnostic Tool. - verifier: Opens Driver Verifier Manager. - resmon: Opens Resource Monitor. - perfmon: Opens Performance Monitor. - mdsched: Runs Windows Memory Diagnostic. - msdt: Opens Microsoft Support Diagnostic Tool. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. - sfc /scannow: Scans and repairs system files. - chkdsk: Runs Check Disk. - winver: Checks Windows version. - cleanmgr: Opens Disk Cleanup. File and Storage Management: - cleanmgr: Launches Disk Cleanup. - dfrgui: Opens Disk Defragmenter. - chkdsk: Checks and repairs disk errors. - diskpart: Opens Disk Partition utility. - onedrive: Opens OneDrive folder. - shell:AppsFolder: Opens all apps folder. - wab: Opens Windows contacts folder. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - recent: Opens recent files and folders. - documents: Opens Documents folder. - downloads: Opens Downloads folder. - favorites: Opens Favorites folder. - pictures: Opens Pictures folder. - videos: Opens Videos folder. - %AppData%: Opens App Data folder. - debug: Accesses Debug folder. - backup: Opens backup folder. - %systemdrive%: Opens system drive. Security and Maintenance: - firewall.cpl: Opens Windows Defender Firewall. - wf.msc: Launches Firewall with advanced security. - ms-settings:windowsdefender: Opens Windows Security. - sigverif: Verifies file signatures. - verifier: Checks driver integrity. - msconfig: Opens System Configuration. - sfc /scannow: Runs system file checker. - dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth: Repairs Windows image. Launching Apps: - notepad: Opens Notepad. - calc: Launches Calculator. - snippingtool: Opens Snipping Tool. - mspaint: Opens Microsoft Paint. - winword: Starts Microsoft Word. - excel: Opens Microsoft Excel. - chrome: Launches Google Chrome. - msedge: Opens Microsoft Edge. - control: Opens Control Panel. - explorer: Opens File Explorer. - powerpnt: Opens Microsoft PowerPoint. - firefox: Opens Mozilla Firefox. - wmplayer: Opens Windows Media Player. - msra: Opens Windows Remote Assistance. - outlook: Opens Microsoft Outlook. Navigating Settings: - ms-settings: Opens main Settings app. - ms-settings:network: Opens network & internet settings. - ms-settings:display: Opens display settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens personalization settings. - ms-settings:windowsupdate: Opens Windows Update settings. - ms-settings:privacy: Opens Privacy settings. - ms-settings:bluetooth: Opens Bluetooth settings. - ms-settings:devices: Opens Devices settings. - ms-settings:system: Opens System settings. - ms-settings:accounts: Opens Accounts settings. - ms-settings:timeandlanguage: Opens Time & Language settings. - ms-settings:gaming: Opens Gaming settings. - ms-settings:region: Opens Region settings. - ms-settings:optionalfeatures: Opens Optional Features settings. - ms-settings:storage: Opens Storage settings. - ms-settings:notifications: Opens Notifications settings. - ms-settings:taskbar: Opens Taskbar settings. - ms-settings:start: Opens Start Menu settings. - ms-settings:lockscreen: Opens Lock Screen settings. Network and Connectivity: - ncpa.cpl: Opens Network Connections. - ipconfig: Displays IP configuration. - ping: Tests network connectivity. - control netconnections: Opens Network and Sharing Center. - ms-settings:network-wifi: Opens Wi-Fi settings. - ms-settings:datausage: View data usage. - ms-settings:network-vpn: Manage VPN. - ms-settings:network-proxy: Configures proxy settings. Display and Appearance: - desk.cpl: Opens Display Settings. - control color: Customizes window colors. - dpiscaling: Opens display scaling settings. - ms-settings:personalization: Opens Personalization settings. - ms-settings:themes: Changes desktop themes. - ms-settings:display-advanced: Adjusts advanced display settings. Accessibility: - magnify: Opens Magnifier. - narrator: Launches Narrator. - osk: Opens on-screen keyboard. - utilman: Opens Ease of Access Center. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-display: Opens display accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-cursor: Opens cursor accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mouse: Opens mouse accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-keyboard: Opens keyboard accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-narrator: Opens narrator accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-magnifier: Opens magnifier accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-colorfilter: Opens color filter accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-highcontrast: Opens high contrast accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-closedcaptioning: Opens closed captioning accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-audio: Opens audio accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-eyecontrol: Opens eye control accessibility settings. - ms-settings:easeofaccess-mousepointer: Opens mouse pointer accessibility settings. Power Management: - powercfg.cpl: Opens Power Options. - ms-settings:powersleep: Adjusts power and sleep settings. - powercfg /batteryreport: Generates a battery report. - powercfg /energy: Creates an energy efficiency report. - powercfg /hibernate: Enables or disables hibernation. - powercfg /deviceenablewake: Enables a device to wake the computer. - powercfg /devicedisablewake: Disables a device from waking the computer.

Winsage

November 17, 2024

Windows 11 Blue Screen with QR Code

When encountering the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows 11, users will see a QR code in the bottom-left corner of the screen. This QR code is intended to help users access troubleshooting resources online, although it often directs them to a general Microsoft support site. To address a BSOD, users can scan the QR code, run the Blue Screen Troubleshooter via the Get Help app, utilize built-in Windows troubleshooting tools, update device drivers, perform a system restore, or reset/reinstall Windows 11. Specific steps include scanning the QR code with a smartphone, searching for troubleshooting options in the Get Help app, using tools like Memory Diagnostic and CHKDSK, updating various drivers, and accessing System Restore through the Windows Recovery Environment if necessary. If all else fails, users can reset or reinstall Windows while choosing to keep personal files.

Winsage

November 8, 2024

The Windows 11 24H2 bug list grows again: 10 reasons to avoid this update for now

Microsoft released the Windows 11 24H2 update on October 1, 2023, which includes enhancements like an upgraded Copilot AI and a refreshed File Explorer. However, the update has several bugs, leading Microsoft to temporarily halt its rollout for certain problematic PCs. Key issues include: 1. The System File Checker (SFC) is caught in a loop of false positives, misidentifying WebView2-related files as corrupted. 2. An 8.63GB update cache cannot be deleted through standard methods, but can be removed using "Windows Update Cleanup." 3. The update conflicts with Easy Anti-Cheat software, causing blue screens for users with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Blue screens can also occur due to driver incompatibilities with Intel Smart Sound Technology, certain Western Digital SSDs, and MSI Z890 motherboards. 5. The mouse pointer may disappear in Chromium-based applications when interacting with text input fields. 6. Users have reported erratic internet connectivity, with some unable to receive a valid IP address. 7. Fingerprint sensors may become unresponsive on some devices. 8. The clipboard history feature may malfunction, showing as empty despite copied items. 9. Devices may fail to appear in the network list, affecting file and printer sharing. 10. Users of Copilot+ PCs face difficulties with printer setup and usage, particularly with HP, Canon, and Brother printers. Due to these issues, users are advised to delay installation of the update until fixes are implemented.

Winsage

November 3, 2024

When these 9 problems happen, I know it’s to reinstall Windows 11

Users of Windows 11 may experience performance issues that indicate a need for reinstallation. Key indicators include: 1. Significant performance drops due to accumulated applications, storage issues, or malware. 2. Frequent crashes and freezes that persist despite troubleshooting. 3. Regular system errors suggesting instability. 4. Corrupted system files identified by tools like System File Checker (SFC) or DISM. 5. New hardware installations that require a clean installation for optimal compatibility. 6. Startup issues that do not improve with disabling startup programs. 7. Malware infections that may necessitate a complete reinstallation. 8. System instability after major changes like new drivers or modifications. 9. Failed troubleshooting attempts that consume more time than productive use of the system. Reinstallation methods include: - Using Windows Update to reinstall while preserving files, settings, and applications. - Resetting the PC to keep files while removing apps and settings. - Removing everything for a clean installation, requiring restoration of files and reinstallation of applications. For severe issues, creating a bootable USB may be necessary.

Winsage

October 30, 2024

Microsoft’s Windows 11 24H2 bug patch fixes some problems – and creates new ones

Microsoft launched the Windows 11 2024 update (24H2) on October 1, which has faced multiple complications. The KB5044384 update, rolled out on October 24 to fix various glitches, aimed to resolve issues such as incorrect file corruption flags, problems with the Disk Cleanup tool, and screen flickering during window switching. However, users have reported installation failures, with the process stalling at 40% or 90%-95%, and common error codes include 0x800f0922 and 0xc015001a. A workaround involves manually downloading the patch from the Microsoft Update Catalog, but even successful installations may lead to ongoing issues like inaccurate Task Manager counts and persistent Alt+Tab problems. Microsoft is implementing a gradual rollout of the update, and users may consider waiting until the next Patch Tuesday on November 12 for potential fixes.

Winsage

October 28, 2024

The Windows 11 24H2 bug list grows again: 9 reasons to avoid this update for now

Microsoft officially released the Windows 11 24H2 update on October 1, 2023, which includes enhancements to Copilot AI, a refreshed File Explorer, improved performance, and greater stability. Users can install the update via Windows Update or download it from Microsoft's page. However, there are reports of bugs, leading Microsoft to temporarily halt the rollout for certain problematic PCs. 1. The Windows System File Checker (SFC) is experiencing a glitch that causes it to falsely report corrupted files. 2. An 8.63GB update cache cannot be deleted through standard methods; Microsoft confirmed this as a reporting bug. 3. The update may conflict with the Easy Anti-Cheat application, causing blue screens for users with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Other drivers, particularly those related to Intel Smart Sound Technology, may also cause blue screens. 5. A bug in Chromium-based applications causes the mouse pointer to disappear when interacting with text input fields. 6. Some users report erratic internet connectivity, with devices failing to receive valid IP addresses. 7. Fingerprint sensors on some devices may become unresponsive after the update. 8. The clipboard history feature may malfunction, indicating it is empty despite copied items being present. 9. A network issue prevents devices from appearing in the network list, affecting file and printer sharing capabilities.

Winsage

October 22, 2024

Microsoft blocks Windows 11 24H2 update for some PCs following bug onslaught

Microsoft paused the rollout of the Windows 11 24H2 update, which began on October 1, due to various bugs affecting different PC models. Notable issues include a System File Checker bug, cache file deletion glitch, conflicts with the Easy Anti-Cheat application, instances of the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), disappearing mouse pointers, internet connectivity issues, fingerprint sensor malfunctions, and a broken clipboard history. Specific problems have been identified on Asus models X415KA and X515KA, leading to BSOD during the update process. The update has also been paused for users of the audio program Voicemeeter due to incompatibilities, and for systems running version 3.7 or lower of the Safe Exam Browser, which may fail to load. Additionally, conflicts with Easy Anti-Cheat have affected PCs with Intel's Alder Lake+ processors. Users have reported various bugs, including issues with calendar syncing, Intel driver installations, and Remote Desktop Connection performance. Users are advised to avoid the update until most issues are resolved and can revert to the previous version if needed.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

8 reasons to avoid the latest Windows 11 update (hint: they’re all bugs)

Microsoft has released the 2024 update for Windows 11, known as Windows 11 24H2, which includes enhancements to Copilot AI, a refreshed File Explorer, and performance improvements. Users can access the update through Windows Update or Microsoft's Download Windows 11 page. However, the update has several bugs, including: 1. System File Checker Bug: The SFC tool shows false positives for corrupted files related to WebView2. 2. Cache File Deletion Glitch: An 8.63GB update cache is resistant to deletion, but can be removed using "Windows Update Cleanup" in Disk Cleanup. 3. Conflict with Easy Anti-Cheat: Users may experience blue screens with the Easy Anti-Cheat software, especially on Intel Alder Lake+ devices. 4. Blue Screens from Driver Compatibility: Compatibility issues with Intel Smart Sound Technology drivers and certain Western Digital SSDs can cause blue screens. 5. Disappearing Mouse Pointer: The mouse cursor may vanish in Chromium-based applications when interacting with text fields. 6. Internet Connection Issues: Users may face problems obtaining a valid IP address, despite seemingly functional Ethernet or Wi-Fi connections. 7. Fingerprint Sensor Glitch: Fingerprint sensors may become unresponsive after the update. 8. Broken Clipboard History: The clipboard history feature may appear empty despite items being copied. Microsoft has acknowledged these and other issues on its Known Issues and Notifications page. Users are advised to consider delaying the update due to these challenges.

Winsage

October 17, 2024

7 reasons to avoid the latest Windows 11 update (hint: they’re all bugs)

Microsoft has released the 2024 update for Windows 11, known as Windows 11 24H2, which includes enhancements to Copilot AI, a new File Explorer, improved performance, and increased stability. The update is available through Windows Update and Microsoft's Download Windows 11 page. However, it has been reported to contain several bugs, including: 1. The System File Checker (SFC) tool is producing false positives for corrupted files. 2. An 8.63GB update cache is not deletable by standard methods, though it can be removed via "Windows Update Cleanup." 3. A conflict with the Easy Anti-Cheat application may cause blue screens for users with Intel Alder Lake+ processors. 4. Blue screens may also occur due to driver incompatibilities with Intel Smart Sound Technology and specific Western Digital SSDs. 5. A glitch in Chromium-based applications causes the mouse pointer to disappear in text input fields. 6. Users are experiencing erratic internet connections, with the system failing to assign valid IP addresses. 7. Some devices have unresponsive fingerprint sensors after the update. Microsoft has acknowledged these issues, and users may want to delay the update until these problems are resolved.