How to Fix DISM Error 87 on Windows

DISM Error 87 occurs when the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) command-line tool encounters incorrect parameters or syntax errors. This issue prevents Windows users from repairing or maintaining their system images effectively. Fortunately, you can resolve this error by following some clear troubleshooting steps.

Method 1: Verify and Correct the DISM Command Syntax

Incorrect command syntax is the most common cause of DISM Error 87. Even minor mistakes, such as missing spaces or incorrect slashes, can cause the tool to fail.

Open Command Prompt as administrator by typing cmd in the search box, right-clicking “Command Prompt,” and selecting “Run as administrator.”

Make sure you enter the correct syntax for DISM commands. Commands should look like this:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-image /RestoreHealth

Ensure there are spaces before each forward slash (“/”). After correcting the syntax, run the command again and check if the problem is resolved.

Method 2: Run DISM with Elevated Administrator Privileges

DISM requires administrative privileges to function correctly. Without elevated rights, you may encounter Error 87.

Click the Start button and type cmd or PowerShell in the search bar.

Right-click the result and select “Run as administrator.” Confirm with “Yes” when prompted.

Execute your DISM commands again in this elevated window.

Method 3: Update Windows to the Latest Version

Pending updates or outdated system files can trigger DISM Error 87. Keeping Windows updated ensures system stability and compatibility.

Press Windows + I keys to open Settings. Navigate to “Update & Security.”

In the “Windows Update” section, click “Check for updates” and install any available updates.

Restart your computer after updates complete, then retry running the DISM command.

Method 4: Use System File Checker (SFC) to Repair Corrupted Files

Corrupted system files can interfere with DISM operations. The System File Checker (SFC) tool scans and repairs system file corruption.

Open an elevated Command Prompt window as described earlier.

Type the command below and press Enter:

sfc /scannow

Wait until the verification reaches 100%. After completion, restart your computer and attempt running DISM again.

Method 5: Ensure You Are Using the Correct DISM Version

Running an incompatible version of DISM can result in Error 87. Always use the DISM version matching your current Windows installation.

Verify your Windows version by typing winver in the Run dialog box (Windows + R).

If you’re applying a Windows 10 or 11 image, ensure you’re using the Windows 10 or 11 version of DISM. Older versions lack compatibility with new system images.

For more details, refer to Microsoft’s official DISM documentation.

Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot to Identify Software Conflicts

Third-party software or startup processes may conflict with DISM. Performing a clean boot helps identify and eliminate these conflicts.

Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter to open System Configuration.

Under the “Services” tab, check “Hide all Microsoft services,” then click “Disable all.”

Go to the “Startup” tab in the System Configuration utility and click on open Task Manager.

When the Task Manager opens, right-click on the programs on the right and disable them.

Restart your computer and run DISM again. If it works, re-enable services one by one to identify the conflicting software.

Method 7: Reinstall Windows as a Last Resort

If all other methods fail, reinstalling Windows can resolve persistent issues causing DISM Error 87. Remember, reinstalling Windows will erase your data, so back up important files first.

Backup your important files to an external drive or cloud storage.

Download the Windows installation media from Microsoft’s official website and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Windows.

After reinstalling, you should no longer face DISM Error 87.

With these straightforward solutions, you should now be able to resolve DISM Error 87 and continue maintaining your Windows system effectively.