Issue: Do you know that over time your system files may change from its original version, even if it is a protected file? Unfortunately, despite of windows’ attemp to protect these files, there are several reason why your computer’s security is compromised. It may be due to a malware that has found a way to to discretely insert itself into your system files giving it the authority to spy on you at will. Luckily we have a solution for this potential threat.
This applies to the following Operating systems:
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, 64-Bit Datacenter Edition
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Enterprise x64 Edition
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Datacenter Edition (32-bit x86)
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Enterprise Edition (32-bit x86)
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Standard Edition (32-bit x86)
- Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Web Edition
- Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
- Microsoft Windows XP Professional
- Microsoft Windows XP Professional x64 Edition
- Microsoft Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
The Tool:
System File Checker (Sfc.exe) – is a command-line utility used with the Windows File Protection (WFP) feature. It scans/checks for missing, altered or corrupted system files. You need your Windows CD in order for this to work.
Instructions:
Syntax:
Sfc [/Scannow] or [/Scanonce] or [/Scanboot] or [/Revert] or [/Purgecache] [/Cachesize=x]
Example: In this example we will be using the “scannow” command which will scan all protected system files immediately and replaces incorrect versions with correct Microsoft versions. This command may require your Windows CD.
- Open your command prompt by clicking on Start > All Programs > Accessories > then right-click “Command Prompt” > Run as administrator
- Type and Enter the command below:
sfc /scannow
If missing or corrupted system files are found,you will then be required to load your disk so that in order for windows locate and register the missing files. For detailed descriptions of all the other commands visit microsoft official sfc.exe page.
system file checker works great, But many are reporting that near the end of the routine , SFC is asking for “insert WIN XP Pro CD2″. If you have a store or authorized retail version computer (IE..BEST BUY< CIRCUIT CITY, WAL-MART..etc.) you only have one Xp disk. You only have three options at this point. 1) just hit cancel several times to finish the scan. 2.) Take your computer into the store and have customer service do the complete scan for a fee ( cost $50 – $75 ) or 3) purchase the complete Win XP pro SP3 boxed set. Cost ABT. $350.00.
The cause is the OEM disk that your Gateway, E-machine and the like computers do not have the E-Home files that SFC is looking for. Microsoft did not license the full version of the software to OEM installs of the OS. You only got the full version disk set if you bought your computer directly from the manufacturer so they say.
Yes you are correct. System file checker could never give you a complete scan as promised. There is a way to get it to do it IF your system backup files are not corrupted on your D: drive which is hidden from the average prying eyes. You will have to do some registry changes to redirect SFC to look for these files in that location and not on the CD.
Just think. You would never known this until it was to late.
Thank you for your comment SirFrankMayo, can you share what registry entries to change to redirect SFC?
Regards,
Nik