What's This System File Checker?

Kenn's
Tech
Notes

20010506: What's This System File Checker?

May/2001
Tech Note #6

Windows 98 has a system utility of some merit, for techs who would like to do some proactive service. The System File Checker is a utility which can check Windows system files and restore any missing or corrupted ones. However, in order for it to be useful on a system which has had a variety of applications and updates installed on it, it must be used to create an updated baseline before there are problems!

Assuming your Windows 98 workstation has been stable and trouble-free for a reasonable amount of time since the last installation or update, you should update the baseline:

  • Run System File Checker. (Programs > Accessories > System Tools > System Information > Tools Menu > System File Checker)
  • Click Settings...
  • Place a checkmark in the boxes for "Check for changed files" and "Check for deleted files".
  • Click Apply.
  • Back in the original System File Checker window, be sure the "Scan for altered files" radio button is selected, and click Start.
  • Assuming you have installed updated system files and not updated the baseline previously, you should almost immediately get a "File Changed" notification. The file name will vary from system to system. Click the radio button near the bottom of the dialog, labelled: "Update verification information for all changed files. Select this option only if you know many files have been updated and you don't want to verify each one individually." Click OK.
  • Despite the previous step, you may get a similar dialog for several files during the update process. In each case, click the "Update verification information" button and click OK. (You will also find that pressing "U", "<Enter>", does the same thing and is faster.)
  • When you get the "Finished" dialog, click on Details... This will show you how many files were changed, and how the verification profile was updated.
  • To see the benefits of this process, close System File Checker, and then open it again. Repeat the above steps. This time, you shouldn't be informed of any file changes.

Keeping the baseline updated gives you the capability of easily repairing corrupted, deleted, and/or improperly updated system files in the future.

For more information regarding the System File Checker, see Microsoft Technical Articles Q188186 and Q264865, as well as this helpful website.

DISCLAIMER: This document is intended for the reference of computer support personnel within Winnipeg School Division No. 1. There is no warranty or liability if procedures recommended here have an adverse affect on any systems. Use them at your own risk. Any trademarks mentioned are the property of their owners, none of whom have certified any information provided here. Opinions expressed here are personal only and do not represent the policy of Winnipeg School Division No. 1 or any other organization anywhere.


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2001 June 9

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