
The basic chkdsk syntax and the associated parameters and switches include:Ĭhkdsk ]] ] While chkdsk can be used from the Windows graphical user interface (GUI), it is most often associated with the command prompt. When used without parameters, chkdsk displays only the status of the volume and does not fix any errors. Chkdsk is a hold over from disk operating systems (DOS) and has been included as part of every Windows operating system since the beginning. The utility chkdsk, short for “check disk,” will scan the file system and file system metadata of a hard drive for logical and physical errors. A rundown on the chkdsk utility in Windows 11

This is why Windows users with mechanical hard drives should take a moment once a month to perform basic maintenance and run a reliable utility called chkdsk. Throughout modern personal computer history, the mechanical hard drive has been notorious for failing at the most inopportune moments. SEE: Quick glossary: Storage (TechRepublic Premium)įor those running Windows and using mechanical hard drives, the importance is even more pressing because that storage medium remains most vulnerable to immediate failure. The diligent maintenance of our storage devices and the systematic back up of data is still important for Windows 11 users, even in the age of solid-state drives (SSDs) and cloud servers. Whether it is through normal use, mishandling or the mere passage of time, our storage devices are destined to fail and/or become obsolete. There is one indisputable and inevitable truth about storage technology: It will eventually fail. Tech jobs: No rush back to the office for software developers as salaries reach $180,000 Microsoft’s Windows Insider program changes include new Canary ChannelĭevSecOps puts security in the software cycle TIOBE Index's most popular programming languages Image: Mark Kaelin Must-read developer coverage For more info, visit our Terms of Use page. This may influence how and where their products appear on our site, but vendors cannot pay to influence the content of our reviews.

We may be compensated by vendors who appear on this page through methods such as affiliate links or sponsored partnerships. Regular maintenance with a Windows 11 utility may prevent a major catastrophe. Hard drives are destined to fail, resulting in lost data. How and why to run chkdsk to scan and repair a Windows 11 hard drive
