Why Windows System Files Can Get Corrupted After Windows Update

Windows updates are designed to be safe and reliable. Their purpose is to patch bugs, close security holes, and add better features to the operating system. You should always keep Windows up to date.

However, that doesn’t mean updates can’t go wrong. One problem is that Windows system files get corrupted after an update.

Let’s take a look at why this might happen and what you can do about it.

Why do Windows system files get corrupted?

Windows system files are critical files that are hidden deep inside Windows and ensure that the operating system works properly. If they are corrupted, it means that they are damaged or modified incorrectly, resulting in system instability.

Corruption and missing system files can have serious consequences for your computer, resulting in:

• Crashing and the Blue Screen of Death.
• The inability to boot normally to the desktop.
• Programs that do not open or do not work properly.
• General instability.

Windows Updates and Corruption

Windows system files can become corrupted at any time, for many different reasons. However, it is not uncommon for this to be noticeable after the Windows Update process.

This is because the system performs the delicate task of downloading, replacing, modifying, and installing system files as part of the update.

If the update is interrupted or fails in any way, these system files may be lost or damaged.

Why can Windows updates cause corruption?

Updates may be interrupted and not complete correctly for the following reasons:

• Hardware problems – Faulty hardware, such as a faulty hard drive or faulty RAM, can cause problems during the Windows update process. For example, if data is not written to the hard drive correctly during an update, it can result in corrupted system files. Overheating or a power outage can also cause damage.
• Corrupt download – In rare cases, the update itself can become corrupted due to problems with Microsoft’s servers or your internet connection during the download. Windows will then not recognize that the update files are incomplete, which can cause problems for the system during installation.
• Malware – Viruses and other infections can target system files, including those directly related to Windows updates. Malware can also change the content or structure of various system files.
• Outdated drivers – Old hardware drivers can cause compatibility issues during and after updates, which can cause Windows update to fail unexpectedly or hardware errors that damage system files.
• Insufficient resources – Windows updates can take a lot of CPU and memory to process. If your system resources are being eaten up by other tasks or hijacked by malware, this can cause the update to fail halfway. If your system is old and can barely meet the minimum requirements for Windows, an update can push it too far, which can lead to a failure.

How do I prevent corruption from Windows updates?

To minimize the risk of system file corruption during Windows updates, it’s important to make sure your PC has a stable power supply, is well ventilated, and has a working hard drive and other components.

This reduces the risk of unexpected shutdowns and crashes, which can damage updates and system files.

Also make sure that the drivers are up to date and check that the system is not infected with malware before performing the update.

If your hardware does not have its own software interface, you can manage drivers by opening the Device ManagementRight click on a component and select the Update Driver option. You can also find the latest drivers on the manufacturer’s website.

To scan for malware on Windows, you can use the built-in Virus and threat protection feature. It’s also a good idea to use a reliable third-party antivirus program, as it can pick up threats that Windows may have missed.

How do I recover damaged Windows system files?

There are several options to repair damaged Windows system files after an update, depending on the degree of damage.

After each repair, check for Windows updates available, in case the last update never completed.

1. Use System File Checker

The System File Checker (SFC) is a built-in Windows utility that scans and verifies the integrity of system files on your computer. If possible, the program repairs the files if they are damaged.

1. Type cmd in the Windows Search Query bar and open the Command Prompt apple.
2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
3. Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC if prompted.

2. Use System Restore

This Windows feature allows you to go back to an earlier state, a so-called restore point.

1. Type Recovery in the search bar to Recovery area.
2. Click Open System Restore to view the list of available restore points.
3. Select a restore point that dates from before the system files became corrupted.
4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC.

Next, you will need to reinstall the latest Windows update, which was rolled back by the restore point.

3. Use the advanced startup options

You should use Advanced Boot Options When Windows system files become so damaged that you can no longer boot to the desktop.

To do this, hold the F8 key during startup and follow the on-screen prompts. Options include:

• System Restore – To go back in time.
• Command Prompt – To run the system file checker.
• Startup repair – This may help you get back to the desktop.
• Safe Mode – Enters the desktop with limited services, which reduces crashes and lets you run repair tools.

4. Use third-party Windows repair tools

A good Windows repair tool like Fortect can do everything that Windows’ native tools can do, but from one simple interface. You can even run it in Safe Mode if Windows won’t boot normally to the desktop.

1. Download and install Strengthen on your PC.
2. Open the program and perform a scan.
3. Click Start repair to fix all Windows problems.
4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC.

During the repair process, Fortect replaces damaged or missing system files with new, working copies from its continuously updated database.

Besides system files, it also repairs Windows registry, which is also a major cause of Windows errors.

To ensure your system is in the best possible condition to install the latest updates, Fortect removes all the junk and improves overall performance.

Windows updates bring major changes to the system, so it is always possible that something goes wrong. Fortunately, you can recover from corrupted Windows system files using built-in tools or third-party software like Fortect.

Once your computer is functioning optimally again, you can retry any failed updates.