Repairing a Windows installation using DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) and SFC (System File Checker) is a relatively straightforward process that can help resolve issues related to system file corruption or missing files. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform these repairs:
Required Tools:
- A computer running Windows 10 or later
- Command Prompt as administrator
Step 1: Open the Command Prompt as Administrator
- Press the Windows key + X and select “Command Prompt (Admin)”.
- Alternatively, you can right-click on the Start button and select “Command Prompt (Admin)”.
DISM Repair:
- Type the following command and press Enter:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
This command will scan the system image for corrupted files and repair them. If there are any issues, DISM may prompt you to replace the problematic file or run a repair.
SFC Repair:
- Type the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
This command checks for corrupted system files and replaces any found ones with new copies from a reliable source.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps
- If you encounter issues after running either DISM or SFC, try to identify the problematic file(s) by using the following commands:
dir /s "C:\Windows\*"
scandir /w
This will list all files and subfolders in the Windows system directories.
- Use the
fscheckcommand to scan for corrupted files:
fscheck "C:\Windows"
If you find any problematic files, use the -verb option to view detailed information about them.
- If a file is identified as corrupt, consider running a full system restore from an earlier point in time to reinstall or replace the problematic file.
- Finally, perform a system reboot and see if your computer boots successfully without issues.
Tips and Precautions
- Be cautious when using DISM, as it may overwrite existing files. Make sure to back up important data before running the command.
- SFC is particularly useful for resolving issues related to file corruption caused by malware or other malicious activity.
- If you’re not comfortable with manual troubleshooting or if the issue persists after these steps, consider seeking further assistance from Microsoft support or a professional PC technician.
By following these steps and being aware of potential risks, you should be able to effectively repair your Windows installation using DISM and SFC.