What Are the Essential Windows Repair Commands? Learn How to Fix Windows Errors Using CMD in 2025

Table of Contents

• Why Learn Windows Repair Commands?
• Essential Windows Repair Commands List
• How to Use These Commands
• Safety Tips While Using Repair Commands
• When Should You Use These Commands?
• Conclusion
•  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Windows computers sometimes run into issues like slow performance, corrupted files, or boot errors. The good news? You don’t always need to reinstall Windows or call tech support. There are powerful Windows repair commands built into the system that you can use to fix many problems yourself—right from the Command Prompt.

In this blog, we’ll break down the most important Windows repair commands, explain them in simple terms, and show you how and when to use each one with examples and a helpful table.

Why Learn Windows Repair Commands?

Understanding basic repair commands allows you to:

• Fix corrupted files and system errors

• Recover from boot failures

• Improve system stability

• Save time and avoid formatting your PC

Essential Windows Repair Commands List

Here's a breakdown of the top Windows repair commands, their use cases, and examples.

How to Use These Commands

You need to open Command Prompt as Administrator:

1. Press Windows + S, type cmd

2. Right-click on Command Prompt > Click Run as Administrator

Then enter the command one by one.

1. sfc /scannow

Use: Scans and repairs Windows system files.
Example:

sfc /scannow

It takes around 5–15 minutes. Run it if you get "missing DLL" errors or random crashes.

2. DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Use: Fixes issues in the Windows image used by sfc.
Example:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Run this before or after sfc if it's unable to fix corrupted files.

3. chkdsk C: /f /r

Use: Fixes disk errors and marks bad sectors.
Example:

chkdsk C: /f /r

You'll be prompted to restart. Use this when your PC takes too long to load or shows hard drive problems.

4. bootrec /fixmbr & /fixboot

Use: Fixes boot problems, especially for black screen or boot loops.
Examples:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot

Run this from Recovery Mode using a Windows bootable USB or DVD.

5. Stopping Windows Services

Use: Stops services to reset or troubleshoot Windows Update.
Commands:

net stop cryptSvc
net stop bits
net stop msiserver

Followed by:

net start cryptSvc
net start bits
net start msiserver

Use these when Windows Update is stuck at downloading or installing.

6. startrep.exe

Use: Launches Startup Repair Tool in recovery.
How to Use:

• Boot into Windows Recovery (Shift + Restart → Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Command Prompt)

• Type:

startrep.exe

It will try to automatically fix any startup-related issues.

7. regedit

Use: Opens Registry Editor for advanced fixes.
How to Use:

Just type:

regedit

This is not recommended for beginners. Editing the registry can break your system if done incorrectly.

Safety Tips While Using Repair Commands

• Always backup your data before running disk or registry tools.

• Use these commands one at a time and restart your PC after major fixes.

• Avoid using regedit unless you know exactly what you're doing.

When Should You Use These Commands?

 Conclusion

These Windows repair commands are powerful tools every user should know about. Whether you're dealing with random errors, slowdowns, or boot problems, running these commands can save hours of frustration and costly repairs.

Pro Tip: Always start with sfc /scannow, then move on to DISM or chkdsk depending on the problem.

FAQs 

What is the most common Windows repair command?

The most commonly used command is sfc /scannow, which scans and repairs system files automatically.

How do I fix corrupted files in Windows using CMD?

Use sfc /scannow first, followed by DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth if needed.

When should I run chkdsk C: /f /r?

Use it when your hard drive shows errors, your PC is slow, or you hear clicking noises from the disk.

What does bootrec /fixmbr do?

It fixes the Master Boot Record (MBR), which helps in resolving boot issues like black screen errors.

Is DISM safe to use on Windows 10 or 11?

Yes, DISM is safe and officially provided by Microsoft to repair the Windows image.

What is the purpose of startrep.exe?

It launches Startup Repair from recovery mode to fix boot errors automatically.

How do I open Command Prompt as Administrator?

Search for "cmd" in Start, right-click it, and choose "Run as Administrator".

Can I run these commands on Windows 11?

Yes, all commands mentioned are compatible with Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Do I need internet to run DISM?

Yes, if you're repairing system files using online sources with DISM.

What does regedit do?

It opens the Windows Registry Editor, used for advanced configurations and system tweaks.

Can bootrec commands harm my data?

No, they repair boot sectors without deleting personal data, but always backup before using them.

What services should I stop for Windows Update repair?

Stop cryptSvc, bits, and msiserver using net stop commands.

What is the difference between sfc and DISM?

SFC fixes current system files; DISM repairs the Windows image those files are based on.

Why does chkdsk require a reboot?

It needs exclusive access to system files that are normally in use while Windows is running.

Can I undo a change made with regedit?

Not easily—back up the registry before making changes as mistakes can break your system.

What does /f /r mean in chkdsk?

/f fixes errors, /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable data.

Is startrep.exe available in all Windows editions?

It’s available in recovery environments like Windows installation media or Advanced Startup.

How long does sfc /scannow take to run?

It typically takes 5–15 minutes depending on your system speed and disk size.

Will sfc /scannow delete my files?

No, it only repairs or replaces corrupted system files, not personal data.

Can I run chkdsk on other drives besides C:?

Yes, you can run it on any drive, like chkdsk D: /f.

What should I do if bootrec doesn't work?

Try bcdboot C:\Windows or use recovery tools like system restore or reset.

How can I fix "Windows won’t boot"?

Use bootrec /fixmbr, bootrec /fixboot, or run startrep.exe from recovery.

Is there a command to reset Windows Update?

Yes, stop update services and delete SoftwareDistribution folder, then restart services.

Can I use these commands without internet?

Most can run offline except DISM when repairing with online sources.

How do I backup before using these tools?

Use File History, create a restore point, or clone your drive with backup software.

Are these tools enough to fix BSODs?

They help with common BSOD causes like disk errors or corrupted system files.

Does regedit allow fixing user login errors?

Yes, but only for advanced users familiar with registry paths and values.

Can I automate these repair tasks?

Yes, you can use batch scripts or PowerShell for repetitive fixes.

Is it better to use GUI tools or command-line for repairs?

Command-line tools are often more powerful and precise for troubleshooting.

Do I need admin rights to run repair commands?

Yes, almost all require administrative privileges to execute properly.