Fix: DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth Stuck Issue

The Deployment Imaging Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is an essential utility in Windows that helps restore system health by repairing corrupted or missing system files. Running the DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth command is a common troubleshooting step when dealing with system issues. However, in some cases, users report that the process gets stuck and does not complete, leaving them uncertain about the next steps.

If you are facing this issue, don’t worry! In this guide, we will walk you through several proven methods to resolve the problem and get DISM working properly again.

Why Does the DISM Command Get Stuck?

Before jumping into the solutions, it’s helpful to understand the potential reasons why DISM might become unresponsive:

• System Corruption: If critical system files are damaged, DISM may struggle to complete the process.
• Inadequate Permissions: Running DISM without administrative privileges could prevent it from executing successfully.
• Network Issues: As DISM requires access to Windows Update servers, a poor internet connection can cause a delay or freeze.
• High Disk or CPU Usage: Insufficient system resources might slow down or freeze the DISM operation.

Fix 1: Run DISM with Administrative Rights

One of the simplest fixes is to ensure that you are running the command with administrator privileges.

1. Press Windows + S and type Command Prompt.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. Now, type the following command and press Enter:

DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth

See if the process completes successfully. If it still gets stuck, try the next method.

Fix 2: Run the Scan in Safe Mode

Running DISM in Safe Mode ensures that no third-party applications interfere with the process.

1. Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
2. In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
3. Check the box for Safe boot and select Minimal.
4. Click Apply followed by OK and restart your PC.
5. Once in Safe Mode, open the Command Prompt as Administrator again and run the DISM command.

Fix 3: Use a Different Repair Source

If DISM is unable to fetch necessary files from Windows Update, you can use an alternative source, such as an existing Windows installation media.

1. Insert a Windows installation USB drive or mount an .ISO image.
2. Identify the drive letter of the mounted media (e.g., D:).
3. Run the following command, replacing D:\Sources\install.wim with the correct path:

DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth /source:D:\Sources\install.wim /limitaccess

This method forces DISM to retrieve system files from a local source instead of Windows Update servers, which can help resolve the issue.

Fix 4: Check and Repair the Hard Drive

Corrupted disk sectors can also cause DISM to get stuck. Running a disk check can identify and repair such issues.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:

chkdsk /f /r

Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC to let the scan complete.

Fix 5: Perform a System File Checker (SFC) Scan

If DISM is getting stuck, you can try running an SFC scan first to repair certain system files.

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Run the following command:

sfc /scannow

Wait for the process to complete and then try running the DISM command again.

Final Thoughts

The DISM /restorehealth command is a powerful utility, but it can occasionally run into problems and get stuck mid-process. By following the step-by-step solutions outlined above, you can fix the issue effectively and restore the health of your Windows system.

Did any of these methods work for you? If you found another way to resolve the problem, feel free to share it in the comments below!