How to Perform a Microsoft Scan for Errors

1. Press the Windows logo key and 'R' simultaneously.
2. Type 'cmd' without quotes and press 'Enter.'
3. Type 'chkdsk /f /v /x' without quotes. The 'F' switch instructs the Microsoft scan to fix any errors that it finds. The 'V' switch instructs the Microsoft scan to display any relevant information as the scan progresses. The 'X' switch specifies that the hard drive should be dismounted if it cannot obtain direct access to it. If direct access can not be obtained, CHKDSK runs automatically the next time the computer restarts.
4. View the messages on the screen as the scan progresses. The scan typically takes less than a minute and filesystem errors are fixed during this process.
5. Type 'exit' to leave the command prompt after the scan is completed.