Windows XP and Windows Server 2003 System File Checker (Sfc.exe)

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System File Checker is a very useful tool when the Windows operating system is having problems. The utility replaces corrupt or missing system files. It retrieves the correct version of the file from the hidden cache folder contained in the %Systemroot%\System32\Dllcache or the Windows installation source files and replaces the problem file, if it finds one.



Sometimes you are able to fix your system problems very quickly without much effort, just by running the sfc.exe scan utility. I highly recommend you try this before resorting to a Windows reinstall or other drastic measures. Click on the link below for detail instructions on how to use System File Checker. 

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/222471

Another link that explains the sfc.exe utility in even greater detail and lists problems and questions in a user friendly format is the link listed below:

http://www.updatexp.com/scannow-sfc.html

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