Essential Windows Commands to Run Regularly for Optimal PC Performance

Your computer is an indispensable tool that tirelessly executes a myriad of tasks daily, from running applications to storing data and keeping you connected. However, even the most robust hardware can experience a downturn in performance over time without proper maintenance. A sluggish or unstable PC can severely hamper your productivity. Fortunately, Windows offers a suite of built-in commands designed to help optimize and stabilize your system with minimal effort.

Utilizing these commands can repair corrupted system files, scan and fix hard drive errors, optimize performance, and tackle persistent network issues. The whole process typically takes under five minutes yet can significantly enhance your computer’s reliability and efficiency.

5 DISM

Repair Windows from the Inside Out

DISM scan in Windows terminal showing no errors. — Screenshot by Yadullah Abidi | No Attribution Required.

The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is your go-to command for resolving sluggish behavior or other irregularities in Windows. It aims to restore the integrity of the system image by identifying and repairing any corrupted files, thereby ensuring smooth operation.

This command performs a health check of your system image, replacing any missing or damaged components. Depending on the extent of the issues and system size, the scan duration may vary from a few moments to longer.

To execute the DISM command, follow these steps: open Command Prompt as an administrator and input the following command:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

4 SFC

Maintain the Integrity of Your System Files

SFC scan in Windows terminal showing no errors. — Screenshot by Yadullah Abidi | No Attribution Required.

While DISM focuses on the underlying system image, the System File Checker (SFC) delves into your Windows files themselves, ensuring that they are intact and operational. It identifies any missing or corrupted files and replaces them directly from the system cache.

To run the SFC scan, use Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the following:

sfc /scannow

Windows will automatically identify and fix any inconsistencies it finds in your files. Regularly integrating SFC into your maintenance routine is an effective strategy to enhance system stability, prevent crashes, and guarantee smooth running of applications.

Both DISM and SFC will notify you of any discovered issues and carry out repairs automatically. After using these commands, remember to restart your computer to ensure all changes take effect.

3 CHKDSK

Conduct a Health Check on Your Hard Drive

CHKDSK command on Windows — Screenshot by Pankil Shah | No attribution required.

Often, issues may stem not from Windows itself but from the storage medium. The Check Disk (CHKDSK) command scans your hard drive or SSD for errors, bad sectors, and file system problems, fixing what it can. It acts as a comprehensive health check for your drive, ensuring data safety and efficient system performance.

To initiate a scan with CHKDSK, open the Command Prompt as an administrator and type:

chkdsk C: /f /r /x

The /f option rectifies found errors, /r locates bad sectors and recovers readable data, while /x forces the drive to dismount prior to scanning. If scanning your primary drive, the process will typically be scheduled for your next restart. Regularly using CHKDSK can prevent crashes, data loss, and frustrating slowdowns caused by drive errors.

2 Defrag

Maximize Performance with Defragmentation

Defrag command on Windows — Screenshot by Pankil Shah | No attribution required.

Over time, as you save, delete, and move files, your hard drive can become fragmented. This fragmentation disperses file pieces across the disk, causing your PC to work harder to access them, ultimately slowing down overall performance.

Defragmenting your hard drive organizes your files so that related pieces are stored closely together. This not only enhances the efficiency of your hard drive but also reduces the loading times of applications, games, or documents. To defrag a drive, use the following command in Command Prompt:

defrag C: /O

The /O switch optimizes the drive and arranges files for optimal performance. While traditional spinning hard drives benefit significantly from defragmentation, it’s still beneficial to run Windows’ optimization tools on SSDs for overall performance enhancement.

1 Netsh Winsock Reset

Quickly Resolve Network Issues

Winsock reset command on Windows — Screenshot by Pankil Shah | No attribution required.

Accessing the internet is crucial for almost every task on your PC, yet at times you may encounter frustrating connectivity issues. Slow web pages, stalled downloads, and apps that refuse to connect can be maddening. Frequently, the problem lies not with your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or hardware, but rather with how Windows manages network settings.

The netsh winsock reset command serves to restore Windows’ network stack to its default settings, eliminating any misconfigurations or corruption that may be causing connectivity troubles. This command is particularly useful when you experience issues following software installations, VPN setups, or network adjustments.

To execute this command, open Command Prompt as an administrator, input the following, and press Enter:

netsh winsock reset

Windows will reset your network settings and prompt you to restart your PC. This action solely resets the network catalog and does not erase your saved Wi-Fi passwords or other configurations, making it a safe option. However, it’s advisable to use this command sparingly, as it is best reserved for troubleshooting persistent network issues.

Maintaining your computer doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Dedicating a little time every month or so to perform these commands can lead to fewer crashes and a more dependable computing experience.

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