It is used to check and see if there are any corrupt system files. This utility will check these files and replace them if needed. It will also check for errors with Internet Explorer so if you are having any IE problems then it may be a good tool to use as well.
To use this utility go to Start, Run and type in sfc /scannow
Doing this will run the Windows File Protection service to scan all protected files and verify their integrity, and it will replace any files that are not correct.
The following should appear to give an indication of how long the process is taking. Depending on your computer's speed it may take some time to complete.
It may ask you for your Windows CD if it needs any files off of it so keep it handy.
Here is a listing of the available switches you can use with the System File Checker. Some of them may be operating system specific so if it doesn't work then that may be why.
* The /scannow command scans all protected system files and replaces incorrect versions with correct Microsoft versions. This command also repopulates the DLLCache folder with the most recent versions of protected files. This requires access to the Windows installation source files and also the installed Service Pack files. You are usually prompted for the location of these files during the scan operation.
* The /scanonce command scans all protected system files once. This command requires access to the Windows installation source files.
* The /scanboot command scans all protected system files every time that you start your computer. This command requires access to the Windows installation source files.
* The /cancel command cancels all pending scans of protected system files.
* The /enable command enables WFP for normal operation.
* The /purgecache command purges the file cache and scans all of the protected system files immediately. This command requires access to the Windows installation source files. This command is required after you run the /cachesize=x command.
* The /cachesize=x command sets the file cache size in megabytes (MB). This command requires a reboot followed by a /purgecache command to adjust the size of the on-disk cache.
* The /quiet command replaces all incorrect file versions without prompting the user.