The Ultimate Guide to Resolving DISM Error 87 in Windows 10 and 11

Encountering DISM Error 87 while trying to repair your Windows system? This frustrating issue typically appears when using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management tool with the /restorehealth command. Our detailed guide walks you through proven solutions to eliminate error code 87 and get your system back on track.

Understanding DISM Error 87

The DISM tool is Microsoft’s powerful command-line utility for repairing Windows system images and preparing virtual hard disks. When you see “Error 87: The cleanup-image option is unknown” in Command Prompt, it means Windows encountered a problem while processing your DISM command. This typically relates to corrupted system files, incorrect commands, or permission issues.

Primary Causes of Error Code 87

Before fixing the issue, understanding what triggers DISM Error 87 is crucial:

• Syntax Mistakes: Missing spaces, wrong character placement, or typos in DISM commands
• Permission Issues: Running Command Prompt without administrator privileges
• Outdated Components: Using an incompatible DISM version with your Windows build
• System File Corruption: Damaged Windows image files (.wim) or update components
• Pending Updates: Missing critical Windows updates that affect system recovery tools

Step-by-Step Solutions for DISM Error 87

1. Verify Command Syntax

The most frequent trigger for Error 87 is simple command typos. Ensure your commands exactly match these formats:

• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
• DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Pay special attention to spaces between parameters and proper use of forward slashes.

2. Run as Administrator

DISM requires elevated privileges to modify system files. Follow these steps to launch Command Prompt correctly:

1. Press Windows key + S and type “cmd”
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select “Run as administrator”
3. Click “Yes” when prompted by User Account Control (UAC)

Always verify “Administrator” appears in the Command Prompt window title bar.

3. Update Windows Components

Outdated system components often cause DISM conflicts. Complete these steps to update:

1. Open Settings > Windows Update
2. Click “Check for updates” and install all available updates
3. Restart your computer after updates complete
4. Attempt the DISM command again

4. Repair System Files Manually

When basic DISM commands fail, use these advanced recovery techniques:

1. System File Checker: Run sfc /scannow in admin Command Prompt
2. Alternative Source: Use DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:wim:X:sourcesinstall.wim:1 /LimitAccess (replace X with your Windows installation drive)
3. Windows Installation Media: Boot from installation USB and use recovery tools

5. Refresh Windows Components

If all else fails, reset Windows Update components:

1. Stop related services in admin CMD: net stop wuauserv, net stop cryptSvc, net stop bits, net stop msiserver
2. Rename SoftwareDistribution and Catroot2 folders
3. Restart services: net start wuauserv, net start cryptSvc, net start bits, net start msiserver

Maintaining System Health

Prevent future DISM errors by:

• Regularly installing Windows updates
• Running monthly system scans with SFC and DISM
• Creating system restore points before major changes
• Using reliable antivirus software

Following these comprehensive solutions should resolve DISM Error 87 in most cases. For persistent issues, consider repairing your Windows installation or consulting Microsoft’s official support channels. Remember that system maintenance and proper command syntax are key to preventing this error from recurring.