Has anyone used "system file checker" for Windows?

[larryq22]

I recently heard about a DOS command which is evidently available in XP and Vista called "system file checker." It is supposed to scan for corrupt system files, which it identifies and requests to be reloaded fom the original OS media. Questions:

1. Does anyone have any experience with it?
2. Does it improve performance?
3. Can it be run using a "reinstallation OS DVD" sent with a new Dell Laptop?

Thanks,
Larry

 

[gamerman4]

Its good for fixing issues when a system file is missing or messed up. It isn't supposed to increase performance though I suppose it could if an important system file is missing and causing a performance drop. As long as the disk you are using has the base system files of Windows then it will work, you don't even need a CD, just a copy of the system files (for Windows XP this is the i386 folder on the installation disk.
For reference, the command is
sfc /scannow