How to Repair MSConfig

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When you boot into Windows, the operating system activates certain services or applications behind-the-scenes. Using the Microsoft System Configuration Utility, or MSConfig, you can control what processes Windows 8 loads at startup. However, if you accidentally delete MSConfig from the System32 folder or disable critical services, your computer may fail to boot or function properly. You can use System File Checker or System Restore to recover or repair MSConfig.

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System File Checker

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Step 1

Press "Windows-E" to open File Explorer and then select the "View" from the ribbon.

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Step 2

Check "Hidden Items" in the Show/Hide Group and then select "Local Disk (C:)" from the left pane.

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Step 3

Type "msconfig" into the search box and then right-click "msconfig.exe" in the results.

Step 4

Choose "Properties" from the context menu and then write down the file path next to "Location" on the General tab.

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Step 5

Type the file path into the address bar in File Explorer and then press "Enter" to navigate to the location.

Step 6

Highlight "msconfig.exe" and then press "Ctrl-C." Browse to C:\Windows\System32 and then press "Ctrl-V" to copy MSConfig to the folder.

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Step 7

Press "Windows-Q" to open the Apps screen if Windows Search fails to locate "msconfig.exe."

Step 8

Type "cmd" into the search box and then right-click "cmd" in the search results. Choose "Run as Administrator" from the context menu to open an elevated Command Prompt.

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Step 9

Type "scf /scannow" (without quotation marks) into the console and then press "Enter" to execute System File Checker. SFC should automatically replace or repair MSConfig.exe.

System Restore

Step 1

Press "Ctrl-Alt-Del" and then select the "Power" button on the bottom right. Press and hold the "Shift" key and click "Restart."

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Step 2

Select "Troubleshoot" from the Startup Options menu and then click "Advanced Options."

Step 3

Click "System Restore" and then follow the on-screen instructions to choose your operating system and administrator account.

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Step 4

Enter your password, if prompted, and then click "Continue" to launch system Restore.

Step 5

Click "Next" through each screen to choose the most recent restore point. Click "Finish" to close the wizard, and then click "Yes" to confirm your selection.

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