Windows XP has a wonderful built in feature that allows you to check system files for errors and deletions.  Under normal circumstances you won’t need the original disc, which isn’t often sent anymore anyway.  In order to get to the routine, follow the directions below.

Run System File Check

Click on the Start button Click Run Type in: sfc/scannow Click OK

You will be able to watch the progress bar, although it should manage just fine without your observation.  Scans take about 45 minutes to an hour to complete.

Sometimes the computer will ask for the recovery CD.  If you have one, great.  If not, it can be problematic.  Often the files you need will be stored in folder I386 in the hard drive.  Otherwise you may need to request and pay for a copy of the disc from either a local computer store or from Microsoft directly.

Once the scan is complete I suggest you reboot to make sure that any changes have taken effect.

Find your I386 Folder

This one is very easy.  Click on Start, then my Computer.  When that menu opens, click on your factory installed hard drive.  You should find your I386 folder right there waiting for you unless you moved it or deleted it.  Every once in a while, because it is a huge folder, it gets removed or doesn’t get loaded, but that really is the exception.

What does the Systems File Check do?

When you run this utility you are asking your computer to compare the current files and folders in the operating system against the untouched copy in the I386 folder.  One the one hand that is great if you have corrupted files on your operating system and have been seeing a lot of errors or a slow computer.

On the other hand, if you made deliberate changes to specific files in accordance with your preference, the computer still “repairs” them, meaning you will have to renew some settings.

Another Alternative

If you don’t have the I386 file or the CD then you have another option.  You can go online and find a good registry cleaner.

These programs do much the same thing as when you check system files on your own.  They go through the operating system and find damaged and missing files and restore them.

On top of that, they will clean out temporary internet files, cookies and all sorts of other things that slow your computer down.

Using a registry cleaner assures you of a fast, optimized computer in a minimum of time.  It only takes a few minutes to download and run, but the change in your computer will be significant.