What Are Cross-linked Files?

Cross-linked files occur when multiple FAT entries point to the same cluster, creating a file system error. This issue can potentially corrupt data on a hard drive by writing information from different files to the same cluster.

Understanding Cross-linked Files

Cross-linked files are file system issues that can damage data integrity. Common causes include:

• Improper system shutdowns
• Abnormal application terminations
• Faulty backups
• Incorrect partitioning

In Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS), the hard disk's data area is organized into segments called allocation units or clusters. Each file has a directory entry containing:

• File name
• File size
• Creation date and time
• Attribute information
• Starting cluster location

The File Allocation Table (FAT) contains entries for every cluster, indicating either:

• The last cluster in the file
• The number of the next cluster in the file

Cross-linked files occur when multiple files are marked as belonging to the same cluster. In such cases, the most recently updated file is typically considered correct, while the other file may be partially corrupted.

Read Also: What is Direct Memory Access (DMA)? Function, Types & More

Identifying Cross-linked Files

You can detect cross-linked files through system symptoms, built-in tools, and utility programs.

Symptoms:

• Unrecoverable Application Error (UAE)
• Violated System Integrity error
• System hangs or unresponsiveness
• Corrupted printer output

Using utilities: The CHKDSK utility can identify and potentially fix cross-linked files. Use the following syntax:

CHKDSK <drive> : <pathname> [/F] [/V]

• <drive>: Specifies the drive to examine
• <pathname>: Indicates the directory and file type
• /F: Instructs MS-DOS to repair errors
• /V: Displays file names during the check

Caution:

• Exit Windows before using CHKDSK
• Avoid running CHKDSK with /F parameter from Windows
• Don't use /F on drives with numerous lost clusters

Repairing Cross-linked Files

The simplest fix for cross-linked files is to delete both affected files, freeing up the assigned clusters. Alternatively, you can use tools like Media Creation Tool, CHKDSK, and Scandisk.

Deleting files: Deleting only one file may lead to additional errors. If you want to preserve the files, copy them to another location before deletion.

Using ScanDisk and CHKDSK: These utilities can scan and fix hard drive errors. Use the command chkdsk /f /r to repair cross-linked files.

Media Creation Tool: This tool can reinstall Windows while preserving your files, apps, and settings, potentially fixing hard disk issues in the process.

When using repair tools, consider switching to the full-scale launcher environment and adjusting the Check FS integrity policy to "Never" temporarily.

Conclusion

Cross-linked files occur when multiple files are assigned the same cluster, potentially causing data corruption. The most effective solution is often to delete both affected files. Utilizing built-in tools and utilities can help identify and repair these issues, maintaining the integrity of your file system.