When we encounter DISM Error 87, it’s typically a sign that something’s gone awry with the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. This error can pop up due to various reasons such as an incorrect command format, missing privileges, or corrupted system files. It’s essential that we approach this issue methodically to ensure a swift resolution.
Before diving into troubleshooting, we must understand the role of DISM. It’s a crucial utility within Windows that helps us repair and prepare Windows images, including those used for Windows PE, Windows Recovery Environment, and Windows Setup. Therefore, fixing Error 87 is not just a step towards system stability but also pivotal for maintaining the integrity of the system’s health. Ensuring the command prompt is launched with administrative rights—an elevated command prompt—is our starting point. From here, the correct syntax is crucial; a single misplaced character can be the difference between a functioning command and an error message.
When tackling DISM Error 87, remember:
- Verify command syntax thoroughly
- Use an elevated command prompt
- Check for system file corruption
Contents
Understanding DISM Error 87
In this section, we’re discussing the nature of DISM Error 87, focusing on its common causes and interaction with Windows operating systems. By understanding these aspects, we can efficiently troubleshoot and resolve the problem.
Common Causes of the Error
Error 87 can occur when using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool, which often indicates a syntax issue with the entered command. The parameters of a command must be precise, otherwise, the system returns an “incorrect parameter” or “option is unknown” message. Below are the primary causes that lead to this error:
Incorrectly Typed Command: A single space can be the difference between a command executing successfully and failing. Users must ensure that there are no extra spaces, missing spaces, or typographical errors in the command.
Elevated Command Prompt: DISM requires administrative permissions to run properly. If the command is executed without elevated privileges, it may prompt Error 87.
How DISM Interacts with Windows
DISM is a vital component of Windows 10 and Windows 11, with broad capabilities for maintaining and repairing system images. Its functionality is integrated into the operating system’s recovery environment:
| Functionality | Windows 10 | Windows 11 |
| Repair Corrupt Files | Integral | Integral |
| Mounting Images | Supported | Supported |
| Updates and Drivers Integration | Supported | Supported |
As DISM tools are critical for system health, understanding the proper syntax and administrative prerequisites is essential to avoid facing Error 87. When we run the tool correctly, we ensure our Windows systems remain reliable and performant.
Preventive Measures and Best Practices
In handling DISM (Deployment Image Service and Management Tool) commands, accuracy and system upkeep are critical. Here, we outline precise steps and considerations to avoid the common error 87.
Ensuring Correct DISM Command Usage
We know that a simple spelling mistake or incorrect spacing in the command line can trigger errors. To circumvent this, every command should be entered with utmost attention. Ensuring each parameter is correctly spelled and spaced is paramount. We must use admin rights to run commands; for this, we invoke the User Account Control (UAC) to elevate privileges. Right from reaching for the ‘cmd’ in the search bar, right-clicking to select ‘Run as administrator’, to entering commands, accuracy is essential.
Keeping Windows Updated
| Update Task | Why It’s Important |
| Routine Windows Updates | Ensures the latest DISM version and compatibility with the system. |
| Checking for Updates Manually | Can address issues missed by automatic updates, reducing error risks. |
| Reboot After Updates | Finalizes installations, clearing potential conflicts that could cause errors. |
Regular updates to our Windows operating system serve as a defense against errors. These updates often include patches that fix known bugs which might conflict with DISM operations. By keeping our system updated, we ensure that we are working with the most compatible version of DISM available for our version of Windows. Checking for updates should become a routine, and following through with the required reboots ensures that our updates are correctly applied.
Troubleshooting Strategies
When facing DISM Error 87, it is vital to methodically tackle the issue ensuring you use the correct syntax for DISM commands and taking advantage of Windows’ built-in integrity check tool. Below, we outline the specific steps you should take to address and rectify Error 87 using System File Checker (SFC) and DISM commands.
Using System File Checker (SFC)
This tool is especially useful if you suspect system file corruption might be causing the DISM error. To initiate the SFC scan, open Command Prompt as an administrator and enter the following command:
sfc /scannowThe sfc /scannow command will scan all protected system files, and replace corrupted files with a cached copy. This process may take some time, so patience is necessary. After the SFC scan is complete, try running the DISM command again.
Executing DISM Commands Correctly
Correctly executing DISM commands is crucial as incorrect syntax often leads to Error 87. Ensure you’re using the right version of the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool. Here are the steps to execute a common DISM command:
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Open Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
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Type the following command to check the health of your system:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Make sure to include a space before each “/” (forward slash) in the command. If DISM finds problems with the system image, use the /RestoreHealth option to perform a repair install:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthThis command can repair the Windows image with files from Windows Update. In rare cases, you might also need the Wofadk.sys filter driver, which is essential for servicing a running operating system.
Advanced Repair Techniques
To effectively tackle DISM Error 87, it’s essential to understand advanced repair techniques that go beyond basic troubleshooting. These methods can potentially fix underlying issues such as corrupted files or bad sectors, which might prevent DISM from functioning correctly.
Manual System File Repair
When DISM fails with Error 87, it’s possible that critical Windows files are corrupted. In such cases, we need to manually repair these system files. The tool that comes in handy is System File Checker (SFC). Here’s how we can use it:
Step 2: Type
sfc /scannow and press Enter.Note: The scan might take some time, so be patient as Windows repairs the files.
If SFC cannot fix the files, we might need to manually replace the corrupted files with a known good copy from another system or a Windows installation media. Handle file replacement with care to avoid data loss.
Windows Recovery Options
If manual file repairs don’t do the trick, we might have to consider Windows recovery options. A factory reset is a viable option, though it can lead to data loss and should be a last resort.
To check disk integrity and fix bad sectors that might cause DISM errors, running Check Disk (CHKDSK) is beneficial. Below are the commands:
| Command | Function | When to Use |
chkdsk /f |
Fixes errors on the disk | When you suspect file system errors |
chkdsk /r |
Locates bad sectors and recovers readable information | When you face persistent errors and data corruption |
chkdsk /x |
Forces the volume to dismount before scanning | If other methods do not work |
Reinstalling Windows or implementing the ‘DISM /Apply-Image’ command can be done when we have a stable WIM file or system image. This creates a new deployment image for the system, which also carries a risk of data loss, so ensure that all important data is backed up before proceeding. These advanced techniques should resolve the DISM Error 87 and restore the Deployment Image Service and Management tool to functionality.