If you are facing Windows update errors, system crashes, or corrupted system files, running the DISM command can help repair the Windows image and restore system stability.
DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) is a built-in Windows tool used to fix corruption inside the Windows system image, especially when the System File Checker (SFC) tool cannot resolve the issue.
In this guide, you will learn how to run DISM properly in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
What Is the DISM Command?
DISM is a command-line utility that repairs the Windows Component Store (WinSxS folder).
It helps fix:
- Windows Update failures
- Corrupted system files
- Error codes like 0x8007000D
- Installation problems
- System instability
DISM is especially useful when:
- SFC /scannow fails
- Windows Update is stuck
- Updates fail repeatedly
When Should You Run DISM?
You should run DISM if:
- You receive Windows Update errors
- SFC scan reports corruption but cannot fix it
- Your system behaves abnormally
- Windows features fail to install
How to Run DISM Command (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps carefully.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Click the Start menu.
- Type cmd.
- Right-click Command Prompt.
- Select Run as administrator.
You must run DISM with administrative privileges.
Step 2: Run DISM Health Check Commands
There are three main DISM commands. Run them in this order.
1️⃣ CheckHealth Command
This command checks if corruption is detected.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
This is a quick scan and does not repair anything.
2️⃣ ScanHealth Command
This performs a deeper scan of the Windows image.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
This scan may take several minutes.
3️⃣ RestoreHealth Command (Most Important)
This command repairs detected corruption.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This process may take 10–20 minutes depending on system performance.
Do not close the Command Prompt during the process.
After Running DISM
Once DISM completes:
- Restart your computer.
- Run the System File Checker (SFC) again:
sfc /scannow
Running SFC after DISM ensures all system files are properly repaired.
What If DISM Gets Stuck?
If DISM freezes at a certain percentage:
- Wait at least 20–30 minutes
- Check your internet connection
- Restart your system and try again
- Ensure Windows Update service is running
In rare cases, you may need a Windows installation media source file.
Is DISM Safe to Use?
Yes. DISM is a built-in Microsoft tool and is safe when used correctly.
It does not:
- Delete personal files
- Remove installed programs
- Affect personal data
It only repairs the Windows system image.
Common Errors Fixed by DISM
Running DISM can help fix:
- Windows Update Error Code 0x8007000D
- Windows 11 Installation Error Code 0x8007007f
- Windows Update stuck issues
- Corrupted component store errors
If you are experiencing these issues, DISM is one of the most effective repair methods.
Conclusion
The DISM command is a powerful built-in Windows tool designed to repair system image corruption and resolve update-related errors. Running the CheckHealth, ScanHealth, and RestoreHealth commands in the correct order can restore system stability and prevent recurring Windows update failures.
If issues continue after running DISM, consider resetting Windows Update components or performing additional system repair steps.
