You may want to run chkdsk every few months as part of routine maintenance along with using aS.M.A.R.T.
toolfor drives that support it.
For example: I once had a problem where Outlook suddenly started crashing on me shortly after loading.
Hannah Stryker / How-To Geek
If chkdsk does encounter problems especially hard bad sectors that it can’t repair, data can become unusable.
It’s not very likely, but it can happen.
The chkdsk tool works pretty much the same in all versions of Windows.
How to Run Chkdsk
Running the Check Disk tool from the Windows desktop is easy.
In File Explorer, right-smack the drive you want to check, and then choose “Properties.”
In Windows 7, the button is named “Check Now.”
you’re free to still perform a manual scan by clicking “Scan drive.”
If the quick disk scan reveals any problems, Windows will present that option to you.
You’ll need to run Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
pop kick open the Start Menu and then pop in “cmd.”
Right-smack the result and then choose “Run as administrator.”
At the prompt, punch in the following command substituting the drive letter if necessary.
If you have scheduled a manual check of the drive, you’ll see a message to that effect.
This serves as indication that Windows will run a check the next time it starts.
This command actually excludes the drive from the chkdsk command for the next start.
You’ll be using thechkdskcommand.
you’re able to also use PowerShell or Windows Terminal if you want.
The process is identical.
Just confirm that you launch them as administrator.
For this reason, it can usually run without having to cycle your PC.
If you wantchkdskto attempt to repair logical file system errors during the scan, add the/fswitch.
If you wantchkdskto scan for bad sectors as well, you’ll use the/rswitch.
When you use the/rswitch, the/fswitch is implied, meaning thatchkdskwill scan for both logical errors and bad sectors.
Important Chkdsk Commands
There are, of course, other parameters you could use withchkdsk.
