File system errors in Windows 10 can be a significant headache, causing data corruption, system instability, and a host of other issues that disrupt user experience.
These errors often stem from a variety of sources, including abrupt power losses, improper shutdowns, hardware malfunctions, and malicious software attacks.
For effective solutions to be implemented, it is essential to comprehend the underlying causes. Fortunately, Windows offers several built-in tools to help users recover from these glitches, such as System File Checker (SFC), Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM), and Check Disk.
This guide will detail various strategies to diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve file system errors, ensuring your system remains efficient and reliable.
Reasons for File System Problems
When your computer suddenly loses power or crashes, it might not finish writing data properly. This can corrupt files or directories because the file system doesn’t get to complete its tasks.
1: Incorrect Computer Shutdowns
File system issues may arise if you don’t properly shut down your computer, such as by disconnecting it or forcing it to switch off. Your data may be corrupted if the operating system is unable to complete crucial file system tasks due to this sudden pause.
2: Hardware Issues
Problems with your computer’s hardware, like a damaged hard drive or faulty memory, can cause file system errors. These might happen because of physical damage, wear and tear, or defects from when they were made. When a hard drive gets damaged sectors, it can’t keep data safe, leading to errors.
3: Malware and Viruses
Harmful software like viruses can get into your system and mess with your files, causing errors and corrupting data. These malicious programs can change or remove important system files, making your file system unstable or unusable.
4: Outdated Software and Drivers
File system failures can also result from using outdated or unsuitable software and drivers. Issues can crop up when there’s a mismatch between different software or between the software and the hardware, disrupting how files are managed and possibly causing data loss or system errors.
How to Fix File System Errors?
We’ve included fixes for file system errors in case you’ve ever run into any of these issues. See below:
Method 1: Using System Restore on Windows
System Restore is a feature in Windows that lets you roll back your computer to a previous state, helping fix errors and other system issues.
Unlike in earlier versions, Windows 10 does not have System Restore enabled by default, so you might need to activate it first. Here’s how you can use System Restore:
1: Open System Properties: Type sysdm.cpl in the search bar and press Enter.
2: Turn on system security: Click on System Protection after selecting the System Protection tab.
3: Select a Restore Point: A dialog box will prompt you to choose a restore point To begin the restoration process, choose your preferred restore point and adhere to the on-screen directions.
Method 2: Running a Malware/Virus Scan
A virus or malware may be the cause of file system issues on your Windows 10 computer. Preventing this can be achieved by routinely scanning for malware. To do a virus scan, take these actions:
Step 1: Open Windows Security: Go to the Start menu, type Defender, and open Windows Defender/Security.
Step 2: Start Virus Scan: In the left panel, click on the shield icon (Virus & Threat Protection).
Step 3: Select Scan Type: In the new window, under the Quick Scan button, click on Scan options, and then choose the Full Scan option to perform a thorough scan of your system.
Step 4: Initiate the Scan: Start the full system scan to check for any viruses or malware.
Method 3: How to Use System File Checker and DISM?
Windows has a program called System File Checker that assists you in locating and fixing corrupted system files. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator: Press Windows key + X or right-click the Start button and choose Command Prompt (Admin). Alternatively, type cmd in the search bar, right-click on Command Prompt, and select Run as Administrator.
Step 2: Authorize Changes: Click Yes to let your device make changes. This will bring up the Command Prompt window.
Step 3: Run the SFC Command: Type sfc /scannow and press Enter to start the scan.
Step 4: Restart Your PC: Once the scan is complete, restart your computer to apply any fixes.
Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is another utility that helps fix Windows corruption errors. Here’s how to run DISM:
- Access Command Prompt as Admin: Repeat the steps to open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Input DISM Commands: Type each of the following commands and press Enter after each
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /restore health
3: Restart Your PC: After the DISM process completes reboot your PC.
Method 4: Reset Windows 10 Theme to Default
Your custom Windows 10 theme may be the cause of the file system error if a virus check was unable to fix it. Changing it back to the default theme might be beneficial. Following are steps to reset the Windows 10 Theme to Default
1: Access Personalization Settings: Right-click on the desktop and select Personalize from the menu.
2: Choose Theme Settings: To access the theme options, select Themes from the menu on the left side of the Personalization window.
3: Choose Default Theme: Select Windows 10 from the list of Windows Default Themes.
4: Restart Your PC: Reboot your computer to apply the changes and check if the issue is resolved.
Method 5: Change Your PC’s Sound Scheme
Sometimes, the current sound scheme may trigger file system errors on Windows 10. Changing it to the default can help fix the issue:
1: Open Sound Settings: Right-click the volume icon on the lower-right of your desktop and select Sounds.
2: Adjust Sound Scheme: Change the Sound Scheme to Windows Default and click Apply.
3: Save Changes: Click OK to save your settings and restart your PC to see if the error has been resolved.
Method 6: Reset Windows Store Cache
Resetting the Windows Store cache is another effective method to address file system errors:
Step 1: Run the Run Command: To launch the Run dialogue, use the Windows + R keys.
Step 2: Reset Cache: To clear the Windows Store cache, type WSReset.exe and press OK.
Step 3: Restart Your Computer: Check to see whether the file system error has been fixed after restarting your computer.
Conclusion
File system errors may compromise data integrity and impair computer performance. Addressing these errors promptly with tools like System Restore, Check Disk, System File Checker, and DISM is crucial.
Regularly updating software, running malware scans, and maintaining proper shutdown procedures can prevent many common issues. By taking these steps, you can ensure your system remains stable and efficient, safeguarding your data against potential errors and corruption.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are File System Errors?
File system errors are problems related to your computer’s disk. They can occur due to corrupted files, damaged disk sectors, issues with disk integrity, or restrictions on running certain files.
What Causes File System Errors in Windows?
File system errors are often caused by improper shutdowns, power outages, hardware failures, malware, or outdated software and drivers. These issues can corrupt system files or disrupt file operations.
How Can I Fix a File System Error in Windows 10?
You can fix file system errors using tools like System Restore, Check Disk (chkdsk), System File Checker (SFC), and DISM. Running malware scans and resetting settings like themes or sound schemes may also help.
Can Malware Cause File System Errors?
Yes, malware or viruses can corrupt system files, delete important data, and create file system errors. Regular scans with antivirus software can prevent such issues.
What is the Check Disk (chkdsk) Utility Used for?
Check Disk is a Windows tool that scans your hard drive for errors, repairs corrupted files, and ensures the integrity of the file system.
How Do I Prevent File System Errors?
To prevent file system errors, always shut down your computer properly, keep your software and drivers updated, regularly scan for malware, and maintain your hardware in good condition.
