Main system files can go lost as software is installed and removed from Windows. Files can damage by bad installations or removed by other processes accidentally. Lost files cause programs to failure, error messages to show and can make PC unstable. Straight solution to restoring lost files is to reinstall OS, but that is choice of final resort. There are many methods for restoring lost system files to Windows without having to begin from scrape.

Instructions

1. Windows Update

Step 1

Go to Start, click "All Programs," and then click "Windows Update."

Step 2

Click "Check for updates" link to Windows Update scan PC. Download and install vital updates given by Windows Update.

Step 3

Reboot PC and check for lost file. If file is still lost, go to Section 2 for Windows XP or Section 3 for Windows Vista and Windows 7. If DLL file is lost, go to Section 4.

System File Protection in Windows XP

Step 1

Put in Windows XP installation or recovery disc. Close window that starts up with disc.

Step 2

Go to Start, click "Run," and type "sfc /scannow". Hit "Enter" to run System File Protection. Procedure will run for some minutes then end without any notification. It will mechanically change lost or damaged system files.

Step 3

Reboot PC; lost system files must be restored.

System File Checker in Windows Vista and Windows 7

Step 1

Go to Start, "All Programs," "Accessories" and then right click "Command Prompt." Click "run as administrator" option.

Step 2

Clear command lines by typing “cd\” then press Enter. Type "sfc /scannow" then hit "Enter." System File Checker scans takes a moment to finish but does not need regular checking. System File Checker report on any lost or damaged files and change them.

Step 3

Reboot PC, and check for any lost file errors.

Missing DLL Files

Step 1

Search for lost DLL file.

Step 2

Extract DLL file into System32 folder for Windows. Utilize System64 folder if having 64-bit edition of Windows.