Share this article
Improve this guide
SFC Scannow not Working: Fix it in 6 Speedy Steps
Running the SFC scan in Safe Mode is a quick workaround
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Key notes
Fix Windows 10 OS errors with Fortect:
Sfc /scannow is aCommand Promptcommand that allows you to scan your Windows system for errors and repair them. This is a valuable feature, but several users reported that sfc /scannow is not working anymore.
This can be a big problem, but there are several solutions that you can try. Follow along!
How long should SFC Scannow take?
The sfc /scannow process should take a couple of minutes up to one hour. If the process takes longer than one hour, it might get stuck.
Follow along as we have prepared a list of solutions for you to try to fix any sfc /scannow, not working issues.
Why is SFC Scannow stuck?
This is because your computer contains specificcorrupt system files, which prohibit it from carrying out tasks associated with the sfc /scannow command.
If the scan falls, you have tofix corrupted system files in Windowsusing different methods. Usually, the best alternative is the DISM scan.
Sometimes you might get an error message like theSFC /scannow Windows resource protection could not perform.
If you’re unlucky andDISM scan will failas well, then you might have to reconsider reinstalling your operating system.
Here are some of the most common issues the users reported, which we will cover today:
How do I fix the SFC scannow if it’s not working?
Before attempting any of the troubleshooting methods below, make sure to check the following:
1. Run the DISM scan
TheDISM scanallows you to repair your system, and if sfc /scannow is not working or if it can’t fix the problem, you can use DISM to fix it.
2. Run the CHKDSK scan
Sometimes the data on your hard drive can get corrupted, causing the SFC scan to get stuck. However, you might be able to fix the problem by running a CHKDSK scan.
3. Try to run the SFC scan from Safe Mode
If you’re not familiar, Safe Mode is a particular segment of Windows that runs with default applications and settings, making it perfect for troubleshooting. You can try to run this process from Safe Mode.
-
Reboot your computer andstart intoSafe Mode.
-
Once your PC restarts, you’ll be presented with options. Select the desired version of Safe Mode by pressing the corresponding key.
-
Afterward, open Command Prompt as an administrator by pressing Windows, typingcmd,and clickingRun as administrator.
-
Type the following command and pressEnterto see whether it works now:sfc /scannow
Several users reported that they were able to run the SFC scan from Safe Mode, so be sure to try that.
4. Perform a System Restore
System Restoreis a valuable feature that allows you to fix various problems. Many users reported that this issue was resolved after restoring their PC with the System Restore tool.
If you’re interested in more info onhow to create a restore pointand how that would help you, look at our dedicated article to find out everything you need to know.
5. Reset your PC
You might have to reset your PC if other solutions don’t work. This procedure will delete all files from your C partition, so be sure to create a backup. For example, to reset Windows, do the following:
6. Take control of the system32 directory
Before we start, we have to mention that this is an advanced solution, and if you don’t perform it correctly, you can cause issues with your system.
In addition, the system32 directory is closely related to your system, so that any changes can affect your Windows installation. In the worst-case scenario, your Windows might not be able to boot, so keep in mind that you’re using this solution at your own risk.
Several users reported that they solved this issue simply by taking control of a system32 directory. There are many ways to do that; the best might be to use a third-party application.
We explained in detailhow to take ownership over a directoryin one of our previous articles, so be sure to check it out for more information.
How to stop sfc /scannow in Windows 10?
If sfc /scannow stops, it’s usually due to corrupted files, and you can fix this problem by following the above methods. However, there are otherways to fix corrupted files; we recommend you check that out.
If you have any more suggestions or questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments section below, and we’ll be sure to take a look.
More about the topics:command prompt,Fix corrupt files,windows 10 fix,Windows 11
Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Milan has been enthusiastic about technology ever since his childhood days, and this led him to take interest in all PC-related technologies. He’s a PC enthusiast and he spends most of his time learning about computers and technology.
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s one of the Troubleshooting experts in our worldwide team, specializing in Windows errors & software issues.
User forum
1 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Milan Stanojevic
Windows Toubleshooting Expert
Before joining WindowsReport, he worked as a front-end web developer. Now, he’s specialized in Windows errors & software issues.
