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How to Fix DISM Restore Health Not Working on Windows 10: Step-by-Step Guide

Sometimes, when running the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool on Windows 10, you might encounter the “Restore Health not working” issue. This problem can prevent you from repairing corrupted system files, causing frustration. Fortunately, there are several straightforward solutions you can try to fix this.

This guide will walk you through each step in a simple way, so even if you are new to Windows troubleshooting, you can follow along easily. The goal is to get DISM working properly so your system stays healthy and stable.

Before diving into the solutions, it’s important to understand why DISM might fail. Common reasons include network issues, corrupted Windows Update components, or incorrect command usage.

Let’s explore the best ways to fix the DISM Restore Health not working problem, starting from the easiest and moving to more advanced methods.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks

Before trying the fixes below, make sure you have the following in place:

  • Administrator privileges: DISM commands require you to run Command Prompt as an administrator.
  • Stable internet connection: DISM often downloads replacement files from Windows Update, so a working internet connection is essential.
  • Windows Update service running: DISM depends on this service to fetch files.
  • Sufficient disk space: Ensure you have enough free storage for the operation to complete.

Step 1: Run Command Prompt as Administrator

The first and most crucial step is to open the Command Prompt with elevated rights. Without administrator permissions, DISM commands will not execute properly.

  1. Click the Start button.
  2. Type cmd in the search bar.
  3. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
  4. If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), click Yes to allow.

Running Command Prompt as administrator ensures that DISM has the necessary access to make system changes.

Step 2: Use the Correct DISM Command

It’s important to use the right syntax when running DISM. The most common command to fix system health is:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Here’s what each part means:

  • /Online tells DISM to target the running operating system.
  • /Cleanup-Image specifies that you want to clean up the system image.
  • /RestoreHealth attempts to repair any corruption found.

To run the command:

  1. In the elevated Command Prompt window, type the command exactly as shown above.
  2. Press Enter.
  3. Wait patiently. The process may take 10-20 minutes depending on your system.

If the command runs successfully, it will repair corrupted files automatically.

Step 3: Check and Restart Windows Update Service

Sometimes, DISM fails because the Windows Update service is not running properly. Restarting this service can help.

  1. Open the elevated Command Prompt (as explained in Step 1).
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop wuauserv
net start wuauserv

This stops and then starts the Windows Update service, ensuring it is active for DISM to fetch files.

Step 4: Use an Alternative Source for Repair Files

If DISM still doesn’t work, you can specify a different source for the repair files. This is useful if Windows Update files are corrupted or unavailable.

To do this, you will need a Windows 10 ISO file or installation media. Here’s how:

  1. Download the official Windows 10 ISO from Microsoft’s website if you don’t have it.
  2. Mount the ISO by right-clicking the file and selecting Mount. This creates a virtual drive (e.g., D:).
  3. Open the elevated Command Prompt and enter the following command, replacing D: with your drive letter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:D:sourcesinstall.wim /LimitAccess

/Source specifies where to get the repair files, and /LimitAccess prevents DISM from contacting Windows Update.

If your ISO has an install.esd file instead of install.wim, replace install.wim with install.esd in the command.

Step 5: Run System File Checker (SFC) Tool

After running DISM, it is a good idea to run the System File Checker (SFC) to repair any remaining corrupted files.

  1. Open the elevated Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

The SFC tool scans your system for corrupted files and repairs them using cached copies. This step complements the DISM repair process.

FAQs

Why does DISM Restore Health sometimes fail?

DISM may fail due to network issues, corrupted Windows Update components, or incorrect command usage. Restarting services or specifying a source usually helps.

Can I use DISM without an internet connection?

Yes, but you need to provide a local source for the repair files using installation media or an ISO file.

How long does the DISM Restore Health process take?

It typically takes 10-20 minutes, but this can vary depending on your system’s speed and the level of corruption.

Is it safe to stop the DISM process once started?

No. Interrupting the DISM process can leave your system in an unstable state. Wait for it to complete.

What if DISM and SFC both fail to fix my system?

If both tools fail, you may need to perform a repair installation of Windows or reset your PC.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and DISM still does not work, consider the following options:

  • Reset Windows 10: Use the built-in reset feature to reinstall Windows without affecting your personal files.
  • Repair Install: Perform an in-place upgrade to repair system files while keeping your apps and data intact.
  • Official Microsoft Support: Visit the Microsoft Support website for more advanced troubleshooting and assistance.

Conclusion

Fixing the DISM Restore Health not working issue on Windows 10 is usually straightforward when you follow the right steps. Start by running Command Prompt as administrator and using the correct commands. If problems persist, restarting Windows Update services and using alternative repair sources can help.

Additionally, running the System File Checker after DISM ensures your system files are intact. Always be patient during these processes, as system repairs take time. If nothing works, resetting or repairing Windows is a practical last resort.

Following this guide will help you restore your system’s health and maintain smooth performance on Windows 10.

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