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 vulnerabilities, 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 become corrupted after an update.

Let’s explore why this can happen and what you can do about it.

Why do the Windows system files become corrupted?

Windows system files are critical files hidden deep in Windows that make the operating system work correctly. If they are corrupted, it means they have been damaged or incorrectly modified, resulting in system instability.

Corruption along with missing system files can have a serious impact on your computer, resulting in:

• Crashing and the Blue Screen of Death.
• The inability to boot to the desktop normally.
• Programs that won’t open or work correctly.
• 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 following the Windows Update process.

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

If the update is interrupted or fails in some way, it could leave these system files missing or damaged.

Why may Windows updates cause corruption?

Updates can be disrupted and fail to finish correctly for the following reasons:

• Hardware issues – Faulty hardware, such as a failing hard drive or faulty RAM, can cause issues during the Windows update process. For example, if data is not written properly to the hard drive during an update, it can result in corrupted system files. Overheating or a power outage can also cause damage.
• Corrupted download – In rare cases, the update itself can be corrupted due to problems with Microsoft’s servers or your internet connection while downloading. Windows then fails to recognize that the update files aren’t complete, which can cause problems for the system during installation.
• Malware – Viruses and other infections can target system files, including those related to Windows updates directly. Malware can also alter the contents or structure of all kinds of system files.
• Outdated drivers – Old hardware drivers can cause compatibility issues during and following updates, which can cause the Windows update to fail unexpectedly or lead to hardware errors that corrupt the system files.
• Insufficient Resources – Windows updates can take significant CPU and memory to process. If your system resources are being hogged by other tasks or hijacked by malware, this can cause the update to fail midway through. Likewise, if your system is old and can only just handle the minimum requirements for Windows, an update might push it too far, leading to failure.

How do I prevent corruption from Windows updates?

To minimize the risk of system file corruption during Windows updates, it’s important to ensure that your PC has stable power, is well-ventilated, with a healthy hard drive and other components.

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

You should also maintain up-to-date drivers and make sure the system isn’t infected with malware prior to updating.

If your hardware doesn’t have its own software interface, you can manage drivers by opening the Device Manager. Right-click any component and select the Update driver option. You can also locate the latest drivers on the manufacturer’s website.

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

How do I recover from corrupted Windows system files?

There are several options to repair corrupted Windows system files following an update, depending on how much damage has been caused.

Following each fix, you should check for Windows updates in case the last update was never finished.

1. Use System File Checker

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

1. Type cmd into the Windows Search bar and open the Command Prompt applet.
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 lets you go back to a previous state called a restore point.

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

You will then need to reinstall the latest Windows update, which will have been rolled back by the restore point.

3. Use the Advanced Boot Options

You should use Advanced Boot Options when Windows system files are so damaged, you cannot boot into the desktop.

To do this, press and hold the F8 key while booting and follow the onscreen prompts. Options include:

• System Restore – To go back in time.
• Command Prompt – To run the System File Checker.
• Startup Repair – This can help you get back into the desktop.
• Safe Mode – Enters the desktop with limited services, reducing crashes and letting you run repair tools.

4. Use third-party Windows repair tools

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

1. Download and Install Fortect on your PC.
2. Open the program and run a scan.
3. Click Start Repair to repair all Windows problems.
4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC.

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

As well as system files, it also repairs the Windows registry, which is also a leading cause of Windows errors.

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

Windows updates make significant changes to the system, so it’s always possible that something might go wrong. Fortunately, you can recover from corrupted Windows system files with built-in tools or third-party software like Fortect.

Once your computer is in full working order, you can retry any updates that might have failed.