In the majority of cases, you can run CHKDSK without encountering errors on Windows 10/11. However, some users may face issues with CHKDSK taking an extended period. Why does CHKDSK take so long? What steps can you take to resolve this problem? Take a closer look at this guide to identify the causes and find solutions immediately!

Why CHKDSK Takes Forever

The Check Disk utility, commonly referred to as CHKDSK, is tasked with maintaining the integrity of file systems and detecting and correcting errors on the disk. Generally, the CHKDSK scan can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the size of your hard drive and the number of corrupted files and bad sectors.

However, the process might stall or become stuck at specific percentages. Issues such as damaged file systems, an excessive amount of fragmented files on the hard drive, or conflicting programs could be contributing factors. Once you understand the reasons behind CHKDSK taking too long, what actions can you take to fix it? Scroll down to learn the detailed instructions!

How to Resolve CHKDSK Taking Forever on Windows 10/11?

Solution 1: Clean and Defragment the Hard Drive Using MiniTool System Booster

An abundance of temporary files or fragments on the hard drive may be the primary reason why CHKDSK takes a long time. To tackle this issue, it's a good idea to remove temporary files and defragment your hard drive. In this regard, MiniTool System Booster proves to be very helpful.

MiniTool System Booster is a free PC optimization tool designed to maximize your computer's performance through various tasks like boosting internet speed, freeing up memory, cleaning registries, removing junk files, and more. Let’s now use MiniTool System Booster to clean up and defragment your hard drive:

Step 1. Download, install, and launch the MiniTool System Booster Trial Edition.

Step 2. In the main interface, click on the inverted triangle icon and select Deepclean.

Step 3. After clicking START CLEAN, it will sequentially execute seven cleanup tasks.

The Windows Cleanup task can eliminate temporary files, memory dump files, clipboard items, etc. This task can also fix broken shortcuts and empty the Recycle Bin. After scanning, click CLEAN SELECTED to remove the selected unnecessary files.

The Process Accelerator task helps to rearrange program data and defragment files on the hard drive to enhance drive efficiency.

Solution 2: Clean and Defragment the Hard Drive Using Built-in Windows Tools

Windows 10/11 also includes Disk Cleanup and Defragment and Optimize Drives tools, which allow you to clean and defragment your hard drive, respectively. Here’s how to use these built-in tools:

Step 1: Clean Your Hard Drive

Step 1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2. Type cleanmgr and press Enter to launch Disk Cleanup.

Step 3. Choose the drive you wish to clean up, select the files you want to delete, and then click OK to apply the changes.

Step 2: Defragment Your Hard Drive

Step 1. Search for defrag in the search bar and click on Defragment and Optimize Drives.

Step 2. Select the drive you want to defragment and click the Optimize button to begin the process.

Solution 3: Perform a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts your system with a minimal set of drivers and services, helping to rule out the interference of any background programs. Here’s how to perform a clean boot:

Step 1. Press Win + S to bring up the search bar.

Step 2. Type system configuration and press Enter.

Step 3. In the Services section, check Hide all Microsoft services and click Disable all.

Step 4. In the Startup tab, click Open Task Manager.

Step 5. Right-click on each enabled item and select Disable.

Step 6. Return to System Configuration, save the changes you’ve made, and restart your PC to check for any improvements.

Solution 4: Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can lead to various issues, including CHKDSK taking a long time. To repair corrupted system files, running System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) is highly recommended. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.

Step 2. Type cmd and press Shift + Ctrl + Enter to launch Command Prompt with administrative rights.

Step 3. In the command window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Step 4. If it reports that Windows Resource Protection didn’t find any integrity violations, run the following command:

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Step 5. After completing the process, run the CHKDSK command again to see if the issue of CHKDSK taking forever has been resolved.

Additional Resources:

# 9 Tips to Fix CHKDSK an Unspecified Error Occurred Windows 10

# Fix CHKDSK Cannot Continue in Read-only Mode – 10 Solutions

# Here You Are: Solutions to CHKDSK Not Working in Different Cases

Conclusion

This guide outlines what you should do if CHKDSK gets stuck or takes an excessively long time. When CHKDSK or other programs on your computer operate slowly, consider conducting a thorough scan of your computer via MiniTool System Booster. With it, you can improve your computer’s performance and enjoy optimal system efficiency.

For further questions about using MiniTool System Booster, feel free to contact us directly via . We will respond to you as soon as possible.

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