Fixing the DISM Restore Health Incorrect Function Error: A Step-by-Step Guide

Key Notes

  • DISM errors can stem from corrupted system files or improper update services.
  • Using the correct command syntax is crucial for success.
  • Creating installation media can aid when all else fails.

How to Effectively Resolve the DISM Restore Health Incorrect Function Error

The DISM Restore Health Incorrect Function error in Windows usually arises from underlying system file corruption or issues related to the Windows Update service. Understanding and addressing this error is critical because it ensures system integrity and performance. In this guide, we will outline a detailed, step-by-step approach to resolving this error and restoring your Windows system to full functionality.

Comprehensive Steps to Resolve DISM Restore Health Error

Step 1: Verify Windows Update Service is Active

Begin by checking the status of the Windows Update service, as this is crucial for the successful operation of DISM.

  1. Press Windows + R to launch the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and hit OK to access the Services window.
  3. Locate the Windows Update service, right-click it, and check if the Start option is greyed out (service is operational).If not, click Start to activate it.
  4. Also, ensure that both Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) and Cryptographic Services are running.

Step 2: Ensure Windows is Up to Date

Updating Windows can resolve known issues and enhance system stability, which in turn may fix the DISM error.

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Settings menu.
  2. Navigate to Windows Update and click on the Check for updates button.
  3. If updates are available, click Download and install to complete the process.

Step 3: Execute DISM in Windows Recovery Environment

Running DISM from the recovery environment can often yield better results due to less running processes.

  1. Power on your computer.
  2. When the Windows logo appears, press the Power button again to shut your PC down. Repeat this cycle three times.
  3. On the third restart, a blue screen will appear, indicating entry into the Windows Recovery Environment ( WinRE ).
  4. Select Troubleshoot on the options screen.
  5. Then, navigate to Advanced options and select Command Prompt.
  6. In the command window, type: dism /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth and hit Enter.
  7. Wait for the scan’s completion and restart your computer afterward.

Step 4: Perform DISM Scan with Source Option

Using a reliable source can often repair the image effectively.

4.1 Set Up Installation Media

  1. Visit the Microsoft Windows 11 download page.
  2. Download the Media Creation Tool by clicking Download Now.
  3. Plug in your USB drive, double-click the Media Creation Tool, and accept the UAC prompt.
  4. Agree to the license terms.
  5. Select your desired language, edition, and architecture for Windows 11, then click Next.
  6. Choose USB flash drive and click Next.
  7. Confirm the drive letter for your USB device, click Next, and follow the prompts to create a bootable USB.
  8. Click Finish when done.

4.2 Execute the DISM Scan

  1. Connect the USB drive to your computer and access Windows File Explorer by pressing Windows + E.
  2. Find the USB drive and note down its drive letter.
  3. Open a command prompt as administrator by searching for cmd and selecting Run as administrator.
  4. Type the following command, replacing E with your USB drive’s letter: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:wim:E:\sources\install.wim:1 /LimitAccess
  5. Wait for the process to complete and see if the issue persists.

Step 5: Clean Up System Image Components

Cleaning old components can free up system resources which might resolve the error.

  1. Launch Command Prompt as administrator.
  2. Enter: Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup and press Enter.
  3. Let the operation finish completely.
  4. Attempt to run the DISM scan again.
  5. If issues continue, you can execute a series of cleanup commands for deeper resolution:
  • DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /AnalyzeComponentStore
  • Dism.exe /online /Cleanup-Image /StartComponentCleanup /ResetBase

This cleaning process often improves odds of a successful DISM operation.

Step 6: Run CHKDSK to Check Disk Integrity

A disk check can detect and possibly rectify filesystem errors that may hinder DISM.

  1. Access Command Prompt with elevated rights.
  2. Type: chkdsk /f and press Enter.
  3. If prompted, type Y to schedule the scan on the next restart.
  4. Reboot your PC to initiate the CHKDSK scanning process.

Step 7: Utilize SFC Scan for System File Repair

Running the SFC scan can restore missing or corrupted system files.

  1. Open Command Prompt with administrator privileges.
  2. Execute the command: sfc /scannow and hit Enter.
  3. After the process is complete, restart your computer to apply any changes.

Step 8: Perform a Clean Installation of Windows

If all else fails, a clean installation may be necessary to restore system functionality.

8.1 Install Windows 11 from USB

  1. Insert the USB with the Windows installation files and press Windows + I.
  2. Go to System, then click on Recovery.
  3. Under Advanced startup, click on Restart now.
  4. Once your PC restarts and shows a blue screen, choose Use a device, selecting the USB drive if needed.
  5. Select your language and preferences on the setup screen, then click Next.
  6. Click Install now and agree to the terms presented.
  7. Select Custom: Install Windows only (advanced).
  8. Delete the required partitions then follow subsequent prompts to complete the installation.

8.2 Configure Windows Settings Post-Installation

  1. After installation, set your region and keyboard on the setup screen.
  2. Connect to your Wi-Fi network when prompted.
  3. Sign in with your Microsoft account or set up a new one.
  4. Adjust privacy settings and follow any additional setup instructions.
  5. Finally, press Windows + I to open Settings and navigate to Windows Update.
  6. Click Check for updates and proceed with downloading and installing all available updates.

Additional Recommendations

  • Always verify backups exist before making significant changes to your OS.
  • Consider disabling any antivirus software before running DISM or SFC scans.
  • Keep your system regularly updated to prevent potential issues.

Guide Summary

This guide detailed multiple strategies to resolve the DISM Restore Health Incorrect Function error, from checking your update services to performing a clean installation. Following these methods will help restore integrity to your Windows operating system efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Resolving the DISM error is essential for maintaining the health and performance of your Windows system. By methodically approaching the problem with the steps outlined in this guide, you can enhance your system stability and functionality. Don’t hesitate to reach out with your experiences in the comments, and share any additional tips that could aid fellow users!

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What does the DISM Restore Health Incorrect Function error mean?

This error indicates that the DISM tool could not find or repair corrupted system files, often due to outdated Windows components or inaccessible files.

How can I prevent future DISM Restore Health errors?

Regular system updates, scheduled maintenance checks, and proper antivirus management can help prevent these issues.