How to Troubleshoot Dism/Online/Cleanup-Image/Restorehealth Error 87

When it comes to maintaining the health and performance of a Windows operating system, the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is a powerful ally. It’s a command-line utility that serves an essential role in servicing and repairing Windows images, including the Windows Recovery Environment, Windows Setup, and Windows PE. However, even the most robust tools can encounter issues, and one common error that users may face is the DISM Error 87, which occurs when trying to run the DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth command. This error can be a roadblock for users attempting to repair their system, but with the right approach, it can be resolved. In this article, we’ll dive deep into troubleshooting this error and restoring your system’s health.

Understanding DISM Error 87

Before we delve into the troubleshooting steps, it’s important to understand what DISM Error 87 is and why it occurs. Error 87 is essentially a syntax error that pops up when the DISM command is typed incorrectly or when there’s an issue with the DISM tool itself. This error message indicates that the tool doesn’t recognize the command-line option that’s been entered, which could be due to a variety of reasons, such as a misspelling or an unsupported option on the particular version of Windows you’re using.

Common Causes of DISM Error 87

Several factors can lead to the occurrence of Error 87 when using the DISM tool. Here are some of the most common causes:

Incorrect Command Syntax: Typing errors or incorrect command usage is the most frequent cause of Error 87.
Outdated DISM Version: Using an older version of DISM that doesn’t support certain options or parameters can trigger this error.
Corrupted System Files: If the system files that DISM interacts with are corrupted, it may fail to execute properly.
Windows Update Issues: Sometimes, pending Windows updates or problems with the update service can interfere with DISM’s operation.
Third-party Interference: Antivirus software or other third-party applications can occasionally conflict with DISM.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Now that we have a grasp of what might be causing DISM Error 87, let’s walk through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Step 1: Verify the Command Syntax

The first and simplest step is to double-check the command you’ve entered. Ensure that it’s typed correctly and follows the proper syntax. The correct command should look like this:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Make sure there are spaces between each part of the command and no extra characters. If you find any mistakes, correct them and try running the command again.

Step 2: Run DISM with Basic Parameters

If verifying the syntax doesn’t solve the problem, try running DISM with the most basic parameters to see if it works. This can help determine if the issue is with a specific parameter or the tool itself.

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image

If this command runs successfully, it suggests that the error might be related to the /RestoreHealth parameter, and further investigation is needed.

Step 3: Update Windows and DISM

An outdated version of DISM or Windows can lead to compatibility issues. Ensure that your system is up to date by checking for Windows updates:

Open Settings.
Go to Update & Security.
Click on Windows Update.
Click on Check for updates.

If there are any available updates, install them and try running the DISM command again.

Step 4: Run the System File Checker

Corrupted system files can cause DISM to malfunction. The System File Checker (SFC) is a utility that can scan for and restore corrupted Windows system files. Run the SFC tool before attempting the DISM command again:

sfc /scannow

Wait for the process to complete and then restart your computer. After the restart, try the DISM command once more.

Step 5: Check for Third-party Conflicts

Sometimes, third-party software, especially antivirus programs, can interfere with DISM. Temporarily disable any third-party security software and attempt the command again. Remember to re-enable your security software after testing.

Step 6: Use the Windows Installation Media

If none of the above steps work, you can use the Windows installation media to perform the repair. You’ll need to specify the source of the repair files using the /Source parameter:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:E:Sourcesinstall.wim

Replace “E:” with the letter of your mounted Windows installation media. This will direct DISM to use the files from the installation media to perform the repair.

Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques

For users who are comfortable with more advanced techniques, there are additional steps that can be taken to troubleshoot DISM Error 87.

Performing a Clean Boot

A clean boot starts Windows with a minimal set of drivers and startup programs. This can help eliminate software conflicts that occur when installing or running a program. To perform a clean boot, use the System Configuration tool (msconfig) to disable all non-Microsoft services and then restart your computer.

Using the Registry Editor

Advanced users can also use the Registry Editor to troubleshoot potential issues with DISM. However, caution is advised when making changes to the registry, as incorrect modifications can cause serious system problems.

FAQ Section

What is DISM?

DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management. It is a command-line tool used to service and prepare Windows images, including those used for Windows PE, Windows Recovery Environment, and Windows Setup.

Can DISM Error 87 be caused by malware?

While it’s not common, malware infections can potentially lead to system file corruption, which might cause issues with DISM. It’s always a good idea to run a malware scan if you suspect an infection.

Is it safe to use the Windows installation media to repair system files?

Yes, using the Windows installation media is a safe and recommended method to repair system files, especially when DISM cannot repair them from the local recovery image.

What should I do if none of the troubleshooting steps work?

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and still encounter DISM Error 87, it may be time to consider a system restore or resetting Windows to its default state. Before doing so, ensure that you back up all important data.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting DISM Error 87 can be a challenging task, but with a systematic approach and a bit of patience, it’s often possible to resolve the issue and restore your system’s health. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can tackle the error from multiple angles and find a solution that works for your specific situation. Remember to always keep your system updated and to regularly check for any signs of corruption or malware to prevent similar issues in the future.

References

For further reading and more technical details on using DISM and troubleshooting common errors, you can refer to the following resources:

By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your Windows system remains in top condition, capable of overcoming any errors that come its way.