How to Fix Insert Media Some Files Are Missing Windows 10

I'm trying to reset my computer, but I encountered an error stating, "Insert media files are missing. Your installation or recovery media will provide these files." The only option I have is to click the "Cancel" button it presents. What could be causing this issue, and how can I resolve it?

When seeking to resolve common system issues, Microsoft's innovative feature allows users to reset the system using the recovery image created during the installation of Windows 10.

In theory, the availability of this feature should resolve any issues users might encounter. However, in practice, many users are met with an error message stating "There was a problem resetting your PC."

When encountering the message "Insert Media files are missing" on your Windows system, you might feel puzzled. In this article, we will present four methods to resolve the issue of missing media files without the original CD or DVD.

Below, you'll find clear steps and screenshots for each method to guide you through the process.

Why are some media files missing when inserting?

The causes of the error message "Insert media files are missing. Your installation or recovery media will provide these files" are as follows:

• System File Corruption

When you use your computer and engage in various activities, the system files on your Windows 10 might get corrupted over time, leading to the inability to reset the system. It's worth mentioning that visiting risky websites and installing or downloading unknown files significantly increases the likelihood of system file damage.

• Windows Cannot Access Files

When your computer is reading or writing data, your hard disk might encounter bad or inconsistent disk clusters due to unforeseen circumstances like computer crashes, power outages, etc. This can result in Windows 10 being unable to access the file and display an error message.

• Device Driver Outdated

When the device driver on your computer is not compatible with the latest version of Windows 10, the issue of "Insert Media files are missing" can also arise.

4 Fixes to Insert Media: Some Files Are Missing without the Original CD/DVD

Upon analyzing the potential causes of the issue, we have compiled 4 corresponding solutions to assist you in effortlessly resolving the "Insert Media files are missing" error.

1. Run the System File Checker (SFC)
2. Run Deployment Image Servicing and Management Tool
3. Create a New Windows Account
4. Reinstall Windows 10

Run the SFC (System File Checker)

First, we should utilize the System File Checker command to address the issue of corrupted system files. The SFC Scannow command serves as a master key, promptly assisting users in repairing or replacing any corrupted files within Windows 10.

Here are the specific operation methods: 1. **开启设备**: First, ensure that your device is powered on and properly connected to any necessary accessories or power sources. 2. **设置语言**: Navigate to the device's settings menu and select "Language" to choose your preferred language. 3. **连接Wi-Fi**: Go to the network settings and select "Wi-Fi" to connect to a wireless network. Enter the password when prompted. 4. **登录账户**: If required, sign in to your account associated with the device. This could be a manufacturer's account or a specific app account. 5. **更新软件**: Check for software updates by going to the "Software Update" or "System Update" section in the settings. Follow the prompts to download and install any available updates. 6. **添加应用程序**: From the app store, search for and download the applications you need. Install them by tapping on the "Install" or "Get" button. 7. **个性化设置**: Customize your device's wallpaper, ringtones, and other preferences in the corresponding settings sections. 8. **同步数据**: If you have data from another device, sync it by accessing the "Sync" or "Backup & Restore" option and following the instructions. 9. **设置安全措施**: Set up a lock screen password, PIN, or pattern for added security under the "Security" settings. 10. **探索功能**: Familiarize yourself with the device's features by exploring different menus, buttons, and functions. Remember, these steps may vary depending on the device and operating system you're using. Always refer to the user manual or online support resources for device-specific instructions.

Step 1. Type "Command" in the Windows 10 search box and run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2. Copy the command provided here and press the Enter key:

This command will scan all system files and replace any damaged ones. Please wait a moment, and then check if the system reset function is back to normal after the scan is complete.

Tool To run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool, follow these steps: 1. Open the Command Prompt as an Administrator: - Press the Windows key + X on your keyboard, then choose "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" from the menu that appears. 2. Type the following command to check the DISM status and ensure it's functioning correctly: ``` dism /online /get-wiminfo ``` 3. If you need to scan and repair system files using DISM, use the following command: ``` dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth ``` This process might take some time to complete, so be patient. 4. After the repair process is finished, it's recommended to run the System File Checker (SFC) tool for additional verification. Type: ``` sfc /scannow ``` This command will scan your system for any corrupted files and attempt to fix them. 5. Once SFC finishes, restart your computer for the changes to take effect. These commands help maintain the health of your system by repairing and restoring critical components.

If SFC fails to resolve your issue, you'll need to utilize the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool (DISM) to scan your system files and repair or replace any corrupted ones.

Now follow the simple steps below.

Step 1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

Step 2. Type the command we provided here and press the Enter key:

Step 3. After executing the last command, type the following command and press the Enter key again.

Step 4. Once all the processes are finished, restart your Windows 10 and see if the "Insert Media files are missing" issue persists.

Create a New Windows Account

Upon utilizing the SFC and DISM utilities, if the issue persists, you can attempt to create a new Windows 10 account and then check whether the system can be successfully reset by trying again.

The steps to create a Windows account are as follows: 1. Open the Settings app on your Windows device by clicking on the Start menu and selecting the gear icon. 2. In the Settings window, click on the "Accounts" option, usually represented by a person's silhouette. 3. From the Accounts menu, choose "Sign in with Microsoft" or "Family & other users," depending on whether you want a personal or shared account. 4. Click on "Add someone else to this PC" or "I don't have this person's sign-in information" if you're adding a new user. 5. Now, you'll be prompted to sign in with your own Microsoft account. Enter your email address and password associated with a Microsoft account, or click "Create one!" if you don't have an existing account. 6. If you're creating a new Microsoft account, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your email, password, and security information. 7. After signing in with your Microsoft account, you can either add the new user as a local user or link them to a Microsoft account. For a more integrated experience, it's recommended to link to a Microsoft account. 8. Fill in the required information for the new user, such as their name and username. If you're adding a child, you can also set parental controls. 9. Choose an account type. Generally, you'll select "Standard user" unless you want to give the user administrative privileges. 10. Review your settings and click "Finish" or "Next" to complete the account creation process. 11. The new user will now be able to sign in to the Windows device with their own account credentials. Remember that these steps may vary slightly depending on your version of Windows.

Step 1. Type "account" in the Windows 10 search box and open the Manage your account app.

Step 2. Choose the Add someone else to this PC option under Other users

Step 3. You can now follow the prompts to create a new account.

After creating a new Windows account, attempt to reset your PC once more and verify if the issue with "Insert Media files are missing" persists.

Reinstalling Windows 10

If none of the above three methods can resolve the issue, you'll need to resort to the ultimate solution - reinstalling Windows 10. This approach is highly effective in addressing all system-related problems.

However, as reinstalling the system will result in the loss of all data on the computer, it's essential to create a backup of your important files beforehand. You can refer to this post to determine what to back up before reinstalling Windows.

Without USB, I recommend utilizing the Todo Backup Home tool for backing up your computer. As a sophisticated and robust backup software, Todo Backup Home can automatically backup your computer and even enable you to save all your data in free cloud storage. Be it backing up the operating system, files, application data, or disks, it serves as the most comprehensive assistant for all your needs.

After backing up your data, please proceed with the following steps to re-install the system.

Step 1. Download the Windows 10 installation media.

Step 2. Create an installation ISO file and click the "Set up" button to launch it.

Step 3. Select the Download and install updates > Change what to keep options.

Step 4. If you have created backups using tools before, tap on the Nothing button when it asks you whether you want to keep your apps and files. If you haven't, please choose other options.

Step 5. Now click the Next button and follow the on-screen instructions to finish the installation.

Upon reinstalling Windows 10, all system issues will be resolved, and you won't encounter the "Insert Media: Files are missing. Your installation or recovery media will provide these files" error anymore.

Conclusion

Due to system file corruption, inability to access files, or an outdated device driver, you might encounter the "insert media, some files are missing Windows 10" issue when attempting to reset your computer.

This post provided 4 solutions to address the issue. However, please bear in mind that before resorting to the final method - Reinstalling Windows 10, it is crucial to back up your computer using tools like Todo Backup Home to prevent any data loss.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How do you resolve the issue 'Insert Media - Some files are missing'?

There are 4 methods to resolve the issue of "insert media - some files are missing": 1. **Recheck File Locations**: Ensure that all the media files you intend to insert are located in their correct folders and have not been moved or deleted accidentally. 2. **Reupload Missing Files**: If any files are indeed missing, re-upload them to the appropriate location. This could involve transferring them from your computer or an external storage device to the folder where they should be stored. 3. **Restore Backup**: If you have a backup of your project or system, restore the missing files from the backup copy. This is particularly useful if you accidentally deleted or lost the files. 4. **Use Recovery Tools**: In case the files were accidentally deleted and not in your backups, consider using file recovery software. These tools can sometimes scan your system and recover deleted or lost files. Remember to always maintain regular backups of important media files to prevent such issues in the future.

Method 1: Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Method 2: Run the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool

Method 3: Create a new Windows user account

Method 4: Reinstall Windows 10

2. What format should the Windows installation media be in?

FAT32 format. If you intend to run the Windows 10 installation media, you should have a USB flash drive formatted in FAT32.