How to fix file system errors open photos in windows 10

How to Fix File System Errors When Opening Photos in Windows 10

Encountering file system errors when trying to open photos in Windows 10 can be frustrating and hinder your ability to view and manage your images. These errors can arise from various issues, such as corrupted files, system glitches, or software conflicts. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to troubleshoot and resolve these problems, allowing you to regain access to your photos seamlessly.

Run the Windows Troubleshooter

Windows 10 includes a built-in troubleshooter that can help identify and fix common issues with the Photos app and other system components. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to Update & Security and select Troubleshoot.
3. Click on Additional troubleshooters.
4. Find and select Windows Store Apps, then click Run the troubleshooter.

Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the troubleshooting process. The troubleshooter will attempt to detect and resolve any issues with the Photos app or related system settings.

Repair or Reset the Photos App

If the Photos app itself is causing the problem, repairing or resetting it can often resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to Apps and select Apps & features.
3. Scroll down to find Photos and click on it.
4. Select Advanced options.
5. Click Repair to fix the app without affecting your data. If the problem persists, click Reset to restore the app to its default state.

After repairing or resetting the app, try opening your photos again to see if the issue is resolved.

Check for Windows Updates

Keeping your system up to date is crucial for maintaining compatibility and functionality. Windows updates often include fixes for known issues. Here’s how to check for updates:

1. Open Settings by pressing Win + I.
2. Go to Update & Security and click on Windows Update.
3. Click Check for updates and install any available updates.

After installing updates, restart your computer and check if the file system error is resolved.

Run System File Checker (SFC) and DISM

System file corruption can cause various issues, including file system errors. Running the System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Imaging Service and Management Tool (DISM) can help repair corrupted system files. Here’s how:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the Start menu, right-clicking on Command Prompt, and selecting Run as administrator.
2. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter. Wait for the scan to complete.
3. If SFC finds and repairs corrupted files, restart your computer.
4. If the issue persists, run DISM by typing the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:

   dism /online /cleanup-image /scanhealth
   dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

After running these tools, restart your computer and try opening your photos again.

Reinstall the Photos App

If other methods fail, reinstalling the Photos app might resolve the issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open PowerShell as an administrator by typing powershell in the Start menu, right-clicking on Windows PowerShell, and selecting Run as administrator.
2. Uninstall the Photos app by typing the following command and pressing Enter:

   Get-AppxPackage *Microsoft.Windows.Photos* | Remove-AppxPackage

3. After uninstalling the app, reinstall it from the Microsoft Store:
   • Open the Microsoft Store.
   • Search for Microsoft Photos.
   • Click Get to reinstall the app.

Once reinstalled, check if the Photos app opens your images without any errors.

Check Disk for Errors

File system errors can sometimes indicate issues with your hard drive. Running a disk check can help identify and fix these problems. Here’s how:

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
2. Type chkdsk /f /r and press Enter.
3. You’ll be prompted to schedule the disk check on the next restart. Type Y and press Enter.
4. Restart your computer to allow the disk check to run.

The disk check will scan your hard drive for errors and attempt to fix them. After the scan, try opening your photos again.

Use a Different Photo Viewer

If the Photos app continues to cause issues, consider using a different photo viewer as a temporary or permanent solution. There are many free and reliable photo viewers available, such as IrfanView, XnView, and FastStone Image Viewer. Download and install one of these alternatives and see if it resolves the file system error when opening photos.

Summary

Dealing with file system errors when opening photos in Windows 10 can be challenging, but following these troubleshooting steps can help you resolve the issue. Running the Windows troubleshooter, repairing or resetting the Photos app, checking for updates, using SFC and DISM tools, reinstalling the app, checking your disk for errors, and considering alternative photo viewers are all effective methods. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can restore your ability to view and manage your photos without interruptions.