Control Whether Scandisk is Run Automatically (Windows 95/98/Me)

When Windows is incorrectly shutdown, or the turn is power turned off, the system will attempt to run Scandisk on the next boot. This setting control whether automatic checking is disabled, prompts before running, or runs automatically.

Change the attributes for MSDOS.SYS so it is not 'Read Only', MSDOS.SYS is found in the root directory of your C:\ drive. Open the file using Notepad or another text editor (not Microsoft Word or any word processor).

Change the value of 'AutoScan=' to:

  • AutoScan=0 : Scandisk is Disabled
  • AutoScan=1 : Scandisk Prompts First
  • AutoScan=2 : Scandisk Runs Automatically
    Changes will take place on the next reboot.

    Note : It is advisable to run Scandisk after an incorrect shutdown to avoid file corruption.

    Note : This feature is only available on Windows 95 OSR 2 and greater.
    Registry Settings
    Value Data : AutoScan=1 (default)

    Disclaimer : Modifying the registry can cause serious problems that may require you to reinstall your operating system. We cannot guarantee that problems resulting from modifications to the registry can be solved. Use the information provided at your own risk.