Key operating system data structures prevent system startup if they are damaged. These structures include the master boot record, the boot sector, the file allocation table, and the core operating system files.

Caution Back up key data files before performing any disk repair operations.

Do not run any disk utilities that are not specifically designed for Windows 95. Earlier versions of disk repair utilities may not work properly. To prevent possible data loss, use a disk utility such as ScanDisk which is specifically designed for Windows 95. For details, see Disks and File Systems.

To check for disk corruption with Safe Mode Command Prompt Only

1. Restart the computer, press F8 when the Starting Windows 95 message appears, and then select the Safe Mode Command Prompt Only option.

2. Change to the Windows COMMAND directory, and then type scandisk.

This method will also check and repair the file allocation table.