How to use the check-disk utility

If you’re using a computer for work then at some point, you’re going to have a problem with it. Whether it’s a virus, a piece of spyware or a failing hard drive, you’re going to run into some problems and it’s important you know what to do when they occur.

While some errors are more serious than others, some can be easily fixed with a few tools. The Windows operating system contains a system utility called “check disk”, which you can use if you’re experiencing some hard drive errors.

Some evidence of these errors might be receiving the “blue screen of death” more than once.

First, users need to head to My Computer and the right-click on the hard drive that you want to diagnose. Then, select the Tools tab and click “Check Now” under the Error-Checking heading.

Then Windows will give you a couple of options. You can check the “Automatically Fix File System Errors” box and the “Scan For and Attempt Recovery of Bad Sectors” box. Usually you should keep both checked.

Then Windows will let you know that if you are currently using that disk, it can’t be checked. However, you can schedule a disk check and this will happen once you restart your computer.

Then, you’re ready to go. Keep in mind the disk check may take some time, even hours, and you should let it run for awhile. This tool can fix many errors, but if problems persist, it’s best to see your IT professional.