The broken-files tool can attempt to detect certain file formats that fail checks, but it cannot prove that every other file is healthy. Treat findings as diagnostics.
What to know before you begin
The broken-files tool can attempt to detect certain file formats that fail checks, but it cannot prove that every other file is healthy. Treat findings as diagnostics. The project offers several scanning modes and the current version may place controls differently in Krokiet versus the older GTK GUI. Follow the meaning of the option you see, not just a screenshot from a different release.
For Windows, verify that your chosen folder is accessible and that the correct graphical frontend is running. The recommended approach starts with a small test set, especially when an action could rename, move, delete or link files.
Step-by-step: Can Czkawka find corrupted files?
- Select a small folder with files you can restore.
- Run the broken-files mode using available format checks.
- Open flagged items with their normal applications.
- Restore from backup rather than deleting the only copy immediately.
Important limitation
How to verify the result
Verify file recovery by successfully opening or checksumming the restored copy. A scan's estimated savings or the presence of a matching group does not by itself establish which copy should be discarded.
If the procedure does not match your screen, inspect the project's own FAQ and troubleshooting notes and identify the exact release and frontend first.
FAQ
Can Czkawka find corrupted files?
The broken-files tool can attempt to detect certain file formats that fail checks, but it cannot prove that every other file is healthy. Treat findings as diagnostics.
What is the biggest risk for this task?
An unsupported format or partial download can produce a warning without proving irrecoverable corruption.
How do I check whether it worked?
Verify file recovery by successfully opening or checksumming the restored copy.
Related Windows guides
- Remove Empty Folders with Czkawka Safely
- Find Empty Files in Windows with Czkawka
- Find Large Files and Disk Space Hogs
- Temporary File Cleaner: What to Exclude
Editorial notes reviewed: November 1, 2026. Version-specific facts are based on the developer's release and FAQ. This guide is educational; it is not a guarantee about a third-party download.
Try Czkawka on Windows
Check the asset name and keep a backup before running a file cleanup operation.
See our download and safety instructions first.