When Windows systems malfunction due to bad drivers or updates, command-line tools become essential for recovery. These tools bypass the need for a graphical interface and provide robust repair capabilities.
Repair Tools Overview
The core repair suite includes DISM, SFC, and CHKDSK. DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) repairs system images, using the command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth. Follow with the System File Checker, executed via: sfc /scannow. To address disk errors, employ: chkdsk C: /f /r, which identifies and fixes bad sectors.
Network and Process Management
Network issues can be resolved with a series of commands: ipconfig /release, ipconfig /renew, and ipconfig /flushdns. Rebuilding the TCP/IP stack with netsh int ip reset may be necessary. Use ping -t 8.8.8.8 to test connectivity continuously, and netstat -an to inspect open ports.
For unresponsive systems, use tasklist to list processes and taskkill /IM processname.exe /F to terminate tasks. Restart Windows Explorer without rebooting by using taskkill /IM explorer.exe /F followed by start explorer.exe.
Advanced Diagnostics and Restoration
Access detailed system information with systeminfo. Launch System Restore using restrui.exe, or, if necessary, repair boot issues with bootrec /rebuildbcd via recovery terminal. PowerShell provides advanced scripting for comprehensive recovery, including managing restore points and services.
By mastering these command-line tools, users can swiftly troubleshoot critical issues when Windows fails, avoiding the need for a complete reinstallation.
