The Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool is a command-line utility in Windows 10 used for preparing, modifying, and repairing system images, including the Windows Recovery Environment, Windows Setup, and Windows PE. It can address various system issues, and when system files are missing or corrupted, the System File Checker (SFC) can replace them using the recovery image. If local image files are compromised, the SFC command may fail, and using the "install.wim" image file with DISM can repair the image, allowing SFC to function without a complete OS reinstallation.
DISM includes commands such as "CheckHealth," "ScanHealth," and "RestoreHealth" for repairing system images. The "CheckHealth" command identifies corruptions without repairing them, while "ScanHealth" performs a comprehensive scan for underlying issues. The "RestoreHealth" command scans and repairs common problems, connecting to Windows Update to download and replace damaged files if needed.
If DISM encounters difficulties, an "install.wim" or "install.esd" file can be used as an alternative source for repairs. The Media Creation Tool can download a fresh Windows 10 ISO file if necessary. Specific commands can be executed to repair the image using these files, and troubleshooting common errors may involve checking for source file locations or ensuring a stable internet connection.
Once the image is restored, the SFC command can be run to repair the installation of Windows 10. The SFC tool checks and repairs system files using local image files, with logs saved for further review. DISM does not delete files, and its execution time can vary based on system speed and the extent of corruption.