corrupt files

[Lucille13]

how to I find corrupt files and delete them

[NonSequitur777]

@Lucille13,

Welcome to our peer-to-peer HP Community Forum!

Finding and deleting corrupt computer files can be a bit tricky, but here are some steps you can follow to help identify and remove them:

1. Run a Disk Check (Windows):

   • On Windows, you can use the built-in "Check Disk" utility to scan and repair file system errors that may lead to corrupt files.
   • Type in cmd in your Windows search bar, then right-click on the Command Prompt App and left-click on "Run as administrator", and then Yes to confirm.
   • Type: chkdsk /f and press Enter. This command will schedule a disk check on the next system reboot. Confirm by typing "Y" and then restart your computer.

2. Use SFC (System File Checker) (Windows): 

   • Again, open a Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
   • Type: sfc /scannow and press Enter. This command will scan and attempt to repair corrupted system files.
   • Copy/paste: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and enter. This will repair system image issues if present.

3. Use Third-Party Disk Diagnostic Tools:

   • There are various third-party disk diagnostic and repair tools available for both Windows and macOS, such as CrystalDiskInfo (Windows) and DiskWarrior (macOS). These tools can help identify and repair disk issues.

4. Check Event Logs:

   • Check your computer's event logs for error messages related to file corruption. These logs may provide information about specific files or programs that are causing issues.

5. Check for Application-Specific Tools:

   • Some applications have built-in tools to check and repair corrupt files associated with them. For example, Microsoft Office has a built-in "Office Repair" feature*.

6. Use Antivirus or Anti-Malware Software:

   • Sometimes, corrupt files can result from malware or viruses. Running a full system scan with reputable antivirus or anti-malware software such as Webroot can help identify and remove any malicious files. You can use Windows Defender** to scan your PC.  

7. Backup and Reinstall:

   • If you've tried all the above steps and are still experiencing issues, it might be best to back up your important data and perform a clean reinstall of your operating system. This can help eliminate any persistent file corruption issues.

Remember that before deleting any files, it's essential to be certain that they are corrupt and not critical system files. Deleting critical system files can cause further issues with your computer. Always proceed with caution and consider seeking professional help if you're unsure about any step.

* Here's how you can access and use the "Office Repair" feature:

1. Close Office Applications: Before you start, make sure all Microsoft Office applications (such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) are closed.

2. Open Control Panel:

   • In Windows 10, you can press Win + X and choose "Control Panel" from the menu.
   • In Windows 7, you can open the Start menu and select "Control Panel."

3. Programs and Features:

   • In the Control Panel, navigate to "Programs" or "Programs and Features," depending on your version of Windows.

4. Select Microsoft Office:

   • In the list of installed programs, find "Microsoft Office" or "Microsoft 365" and select it.

5. Change/Modify:

   • Click the "Change" or "Modify" button. This will launch the Microsoft Office setup wizard.

6. Repair Option:

   • In the setup wizard, you should see an option to repair Office. It might be labeled as "Quick Repair" or "Online Repair" (the names may vary depending on your Office version).

   • "Quick Repair" attempts to fix common issues without requiring an internet connection.

   • "Online Repair" requires an internet connection and can fix more complex problems by reinstalling Office.

7. Follow the Wizard:

   • Choose the repair option that suits your needs (usually, "Quick Repair" is a good first step).
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

8. Restart:

   • After the repair is complete, restart your computer.

** You can have Windows Defender scan your PC for malware and threats using the following steps:

1. Open Windows Security:

   • Press the Windows key on your keyboard to open the Start menu.
   • Type "Windows Security" and press Enter. This will open the Windows Security app.

2. Access Virus & Threat Protection:

   • In the Windows Security window, click on "Virus & Threat Protection" in the left sidebar. This will take you to the Virus & Threat Protection section.

3. Run a Quick Scan:

   • Under the "Quick Scan" section, click the "Quick Scan" button. This will perform a fast scan of your system's most common areas for malware.

4. Run a Full Scan (Optional):

   • If you want to perform a more thorough scan of your entire system, you can click on "Scan Options" under the "Quick Scan" section.
   • Select "Full Scan" and click the "Scan Now" button. This will scan your entire PC, including all files and folders.

5. Review Scan Results:

   • Once the scan is complete, Windows Defender will display the results. If any threats are detected, you'll see them listed.
   • You can click on "Start actions" or "Quarantine" to take action on the detected threats. Windows Defender will either remove or quarantine them, depending on the severity of the threat.

6. Schedule Regular Scans (Optional):

   • To ensure your PC is regularly scanned for threats, you can set up a schedule for Windows Defender scans. To do this, go back to the Virus & Threat Protection section and click on "Manage settings" under "Virus & Threat Protection settings."
   • You can then toggle on "Limited Periodic Scanning" to schedule regular scans.

7. Check for Updates (Optional):

   • It's essential to keep Windows Defender up to date for the best protection. You can check for updates by going to the "Virus & Threat Protection" section and clicking on "Manage settings" under "Virus & Threat Protection updates."

Remember that Windows Defender is a capable antivirus and antimalware tool, but it's always a good practice to keep Windows and your PC software up to date, use safe browsing habits, and exercise caution when downloading and opening files from iffy sources to further protect your PC from threats & infections.

Hope this was helpful.

Kind Regards,

NonSequitur777