How to Prevent Data Corruption in Windows PC
Does your Windows system run slow or behave strangely? And you have no clue what’s happening with your PC?
In most cases, corrupted system files can be a problem. However, sometimes malware or virus infection attacks your files and corrupts them.
This slows your PC and prevents you from accessing your important files. In addition, you can lose your work files and other personal data when your files get corrupted.
So, the best solution is to prevent your files from getting corrupted rather than being sorry.
Here we will discuss how to prevent data corruption on Windows PC in detail.
What is a Corrupted File?
A corrupted file is a file that is tampered with or not working properly. This can happen to any file, including documents, media, or system files.
In most cases, simple PC rebooting is enough to fix the problem. But occasionally, situations get serious where you might have to take some advanced steps.
Usually, all computer files have a specific structure and content. Therefore, there is no issue when all files are arranged the way they should be.
But when the wrong content is written in a file or correct content is added in the wrong location, it can cause a problem.
Corrupted files often don’t open at all or might appear in the wrong format. This doesn’t mean your program is corrupted.
For example, Word might not be able to open a certain document but others without trouble.
How Do Windows Files Get Corrupted?
There is no particular reason behind files getting corrupted in Windows. However, several factors can cause file corruption on Windows, such as:
Malware or virus attacks. The most common reason behind file corruption is malware or virus attacks. When your PC gets a virus infection, it can change file settings and corrupt it.
Improper file saving. File corruption also happens when a glitch occurs during the file saving process. For example, if the file crashes when you open it, this is likely happening because your file is not saved properly in the first place.
Incorrect file location. If you store files in the wrong location, it can cause trouble opening them. For example, if you store system files in Photos, you might not get the proper access.
Sudden unplugging of the storage devices. Often people unplug USBs or other storage devices instantly from their PCs. Unfortunately, this can disturb the data transfer process, and corrupted files get stored on your computer. That’s why it is always recommended to follow a proper protocol to plug or unplug storage devices from/to computers.
Disk allocation. If your disk partition is not properly allocated, it can cause problems accessing some files. For instance, if your C drive has limited free space, it can prevent some system files from opening. That’s because large files need adequate RAM to process.
Updating errors. When your system updates disturb during the installation process, it can corrupt files. This happens because system updates are not installed accurately.
Power outage. Imagine you are transferring data from your USB drive, and suddenly the electricity goes off. This sudden power outage can corrupt your files.
Outdated versions. If your computer doesn’t support the file format, you can not access the file content properly. Thus, convert the file format to something that your computer supports.
How to Prevent Data Corruption in Windows PC?
File corruption is annoying. It can delay your work and slow down your PC.
But there is nothing to worry about. Following all the precautions, you never have to deal with a corrupted file.
Here’s how to prevent data corruption on Windows PC with ease:
Solution 1. Never Open Files in Unsupported Format
A common reason for file opening in the Windows PC is opening files in unsupported software. When you force open a file with incompatible software, it can corrupt some of the file’s data.
Therefore, check out which software supports your file type and use it to access the file. Of course, you can also convert files to the software supporting format. But this can also damage the file quality.
So, whenever you have an unknown software, create a file copy, so you don’t damage the original file content.
Solution 2. Make the File Transfer Process Smooth
Whether transferring files within your computer or from a portable storage device, ensure the process doesn’t get disturbed.
Here’s how to prevent data corruption on Windows PC while transferring files:
- Ensure that your laptop has full power to prevent sudden power outages. Desktop users should connect their devices to an external power source like UPS.
- Never take out your USB drive abruptly; it can disturb data transfer.
- Don’t simply copy or paste files. Instead, follow the proper process to move data from one location to another.
- Always move your files to the right location after checking the drive size.
Solution 3. Use Antivirus Program
As we have already mentioned, viruses are the main reason behind data corruption. Thus, to prevent your data from corrupting, install the best antivirus program on your computer.
The software will ensure that no virus or malware can enter your system and destroy your files. Moreover, if malware has already infected your data, the software can help you fix those corrupted files.
Some of the best Windows antivirus programs are McAfee, Norton, etc. If you want to use a third-party antivirus program, you can use Microsoft Windows Defender to scan your PC for viruses.
Solution 4. Use File Ejection Option
Make it your thumb rule to never suddenly pull out USB drives from your computer after the data transfer. It can be difficult to determine when the data transfer process is complete, and it is safe to unplug the USB drive.
Therefore, many people unplug USB drives at the wrong time. So, we recommend you follow the proper ejection process to remove the storage device from your computer.
Here’s how you can eject the external storage device from your computer:
Step 1. On the Taskbar, look for the Safely Remove Hardware icon. If you can’t see the icon, click on the Show hidden icon.

Step 2. Once you find the Safely Remove Hardware icon, turn on the Eject Media button.
If this doesn’t work, go to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Device > More > Select Remove device.
Solution 5. Protect Your Hard Disk from Physical Damages
The flaws in your hard drive can make your files go corrupt. Power surges, water drops, overheating, or dust inside the storage can damage your data.
So, here are some tips that you can follow to protect your hard disk:
- Frequently clean your laptop or desktop to keep it dust free.
- Ensure your CPU never overheats. Shut down your computer at regular intervals.
- Always use the proper power plug and cable to supply electricity to your computer.
- Never press the power button to shut down your Windows computer. Always follow the proper shutdown of your machine.
- Use linen cloth or a soft bristle brush to clean your CPU parts.
Solution 6. Use the System File Checker Tool
The System File Checker (SFC) tool is a default tool available on Windows to scan your system files. It also helps to find and repair corrupted files. It can automatically replace or alter your corrupted files to a clean version.
To run the SFC tool, you have to open the Command Prompt from the Start menu and run it as an admin.
On the Command Prompt window, type this command and hit Enter:
sfc/scannow

It might take some time to complete the entire scanning process. So, don’t close the command prompt window during the entire scanning process. Once the scan is complete, you will receive a message on your screen. After that, you can exit the window.
If the SFC couldn’t find any corrupted files, you can reboot your computer in safe mode. To do so, you can hold the Shift key down during the restart.
In safe mode, you can manually fix the broken files using the SFC tool. You need to access the CBS.Log to locate the corrupted files. You can follow this path to locate corrupted files:
C:\Windows\Logs\CBS\CBS.log
Now, open the log file and search for corrupted files. Scroll towards the bottom of the log and search for entries that start with cannot repair member file.
You can copy the message from the log and paste it into your web browser to find specific information to fix that particular file.
Conclusion: How to Prevent Data Corruption in Windows PC
There you go, people! You have learned how to prevent data corruption on Windows PC. As you can see, file corruption is a common problem.
But, if you follow the proper precautions, you can prevent data corruption. Just keep your data clean and well organized. Also, make sure your disk is clean both from the inside and outside.
That’s it for now! For more Windows solutions, keep on following this blog site.
Popular Post
Recent Post
How to Fix a Kmode Exception Not Handled Error in Windows
Introduction: If you use Windows frequently, encountering bugs and errors is quite inevitable, especially the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors. And well, one such frustrating issue is the kmode exception not handled error that barges out of the blue hindering your workflow. Whether you are a tech-savvy enthusiast or a casual user, understanding and […]
How to Fix the “Class not Registered” Error on Windows
Introduction: If you’ve ever encountered the frustrating “Class not Registered” error message on your Windows computer, you’re not alone. This common issue can occur when you attempt to open a file, launch an application, or perform certain actions on your system. It often leaves users puzzled and wondering what went wrong. The “Class not Registered” […]
How to Screen Record on Windows 11
Introduction Open the Snipping Tool to begin a screen recording in Windows 11 to capture what is on your screen. You can also open the Game Bar on your Xbox by pressing Windows+G, then launch the recording window and tap the record button. Use a third-party program, such as OBS, ScreenPresso, or GeForce Service, to […]
Best Apple Pencil Apps for Productivity in 2023
Introduction The Ecosystem of the Apple company is huge as once you purchase any Apple device, you cannot resist other accessories of the Apple company. An Apple pencil is a part of the ecosystem and accessories for iOS Tablets and Macs. Whether you own a Tablet, MacBook, or iPhone, Apple pencil works on every device. […]
How to Customize the Taskbar in Windows 11
Introduction Taskbar is very useful in quick access to any other Windows directly from the Taskbar panel. But are you aware of the advantages and features you can access with a taskbar? Many people have no clue about what you can do with your Taskbar and how you can customize it. Therefore you can enjoy […]
Top 10 Offline RPGs For Windows in 2023
Introduction Looking for offline games! We got you a list of RPGs in 2023. In the developing World, the gaming community is rising with lightning speed. People play multiple role play games online with friends or for earning purposes. Nowadays, there are many popular platforms like YouTube and Twitch where you can earn money by […]
10 Best Coding Apps for Kids on Android And iOS
Introduction There has never been a better opportunity to get a competitive edge on whatever you want your young champ to learn, whether it is how to build some of the best useful apps or beautiful websites. The nicest aspect is the absence of an age requirement. It gives everyone—adults, teenagers, and children—endless opportunities. As […]
The Best 5 Screenshot Applications for Android to try now
You often struggle with taking screenshots on your Android phone following the default method, i.e., pressing the lock and volume down buttons together. The situation worsens further when either of the keys is not working properly. Besides, you need to synchronize the press times of both keys to take the screenshot, which often leads to […]
10 Best Translator Apps for Android & iOS
Introduction Technology has made it easy for people to connect worldwide. Whether you are interacting online or traveling to other locations, you can talk directly to people from those areas. Yet, just because the means to do it is now available, it does not remove the problem of language barriers. While you can learn the […]
How To Fix WhatsApp Voice Or Video Call With No Sound?
Introduction WhatsApp is a popular way to stay in touch with friends and family worldwide. However, a WhatsApp call without your friend’s voice or smile is the worst. Poor network connectivity, device malfunction, or software glitches can cause this. WhatsApp calls without sound can be fixed easily. You can quickly resolve the problem and resume […]