The Extended Attributes Are Inconsistent
The error can result from some issues that include registry errors, fragmented files, excessive startup entries, hardware/RAM decline or redundant program installations – and it could happen when opening regedit or Task Scheduler, CMD, Driver installs, SSCM, etc. If you are going through the ordeal caused by this issue, the only possible solution to get rid of this error may seem to be re-installation of Windows, which means loss of most of the critical alterations to your computer’s settings that you did and in some cases, loss of important data. But before you do that, here is a guide on how to fix The Extended Attributes Are Inconsistent error.
1] Perform a System Restore
Whenever something goes wrong on your computer due to a corrupted software or a driver that broke something vital, System Restore provides a convenient solution by taking your computer’s operating system back to the state where it was not facing any issues. To perform a System Restore, follow the steps below:
2] Perform an SFC Scan on the Computer
The System File Checker scan feature inspects the important protected Windows files on your system and replaces them in case any file is corrupt. To perform a System File Checker scan, do the following: You will see the following messages appear on the screen: Once the System File Checker verifies the integrity of every protected operating system file on the computer, you’ll see one of the following messages: If SFC was able to find corruption, restart the computer and allow it to repair the files; else you may need to troubleshoot further by following the above-mentioned links. If you need to, you may run System File Checker at Boot Time. This is one option which may help you as it will run System File Checker before Windows loads.
3] Repair System Image
Run DISM to repair a corrupted system image. Open an elevated command prompt and run the following command and hit Enter: This command checks for component store corruption records the corruption and FIXES the corruption. It may take a while though! Useful if System File Checker is not working.
4] Reset Desktop Theme Sound Scheme to defaults
Reports on the Internet also mention that this error can because due to an inconsistent Desktop Theme or Sound scheme. Reset your theme as well as your sound scheme to use the default theme and sounds and see if that helps. In Windows 11/10, you will get the settings via Settings > Personalization.
5] Repair the OS
On Windows 11/10, try Reset This PC. On Windows 8, carry out a Refresh or a Reset operation. An Automatic Repair is also an option you may want to consider if you think it applies in your situation. On Windows 7, carry out a Startup Repair or Repair Install or an In-place Upgrade as you think may best suit your situation. Hope something helps!
