Canonical: https://screensie.com/disk-repair-windows

Understand CHKDSK scan, /f and /r, when a restart is required, and how Screensie runs remote disk scans with progress and results.

Disk repair


# Check and repair a Windows disk safely.




Updated 
October 5, 2026




To check a Windows disk, run chkdsk C: from an administrator Command Prompt. Use chkdsk C: /f only when you intend to repair filesystem errors; the system drive may require a restart. Back up important data before repairs.




## Start with the least disruptive check


` chkdsk C:chkdsk C: /scan `


Without repair parameters, CHKDSK reports status. The online ` /scan ` option scans an NTFS volume while Windows is running.




## Repair options


` chkdsk C: /fchkdsk C: /r `


- **/f** fixes logical filesystem errors and may schedule work for the next restart when the volume is in use.
- **/r** includes ` /f `, locates bad sectors and attempts readable-data recovery. It can take much longer.




**Before repair:**
 back up important data. A disk showing physical failure symptoms needs a replacement plan, not repeated repair scans.




## With Screensie




PCInfo lists drives and provides a confirmed CHKDSK scan with real progress, cancellation and returned results. A repair that requires exclusive access or restart should be coordinated with the owner.




Reference: [Microsoft CHKDSK documentation](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/administration/windows-commands/chkdsk).




## Common questions




**Does CHKDSK repair a disk automatically?**




Running chkdsk C: reports filesystem status. The /f option requests filesystem repairs, while /r adds a much longer bad-sector check. Back up important files and confirm the intended volume before requesting repairs.




**Why does CHKDSK ask for a restart?**




Windows may need to schedule a repair when it cannot lock a volume in use, including the system drive. Read the prompt, save work, and arrange the restart before continuing.




## Related guides




- [Analyze and optimize a drive](https://screensie.com/disk-defragmentation-windows)
- [Check protected Windows system files](https://screensie.com/how-to-run-sfc-remotely)




## Scan a saved PC remotely




Review capacity first, then start a guarded disk scan.


[See Screensie](https://screensie.com/)