Fix Windows 11 DISM error 87 with working solutions

[nerdslife_team]

DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) errors can prevent proper system maintenance and repairs on Windows 11. When error 87 appears, it typically indicates improper command usage or permission issues. Here are proven solutions to resolve this error and get your system back to normal.

Common triggers for DISM error 87:

• Command syntax mistakes: Typing errors or incorrect spacing in DISM commands
• Missing admin rights: Not running commands with proper administrative privileges
• System file problems: Damaged or corrupted Windows system files
• DISM version conflicts: Using incompatible DISM versions for your Windows build

Method 1: Run DISM and SFC in safe mode

This comprehensive approach addresses most underlying causes by running system tools in a controlled environment.

1. Enter safe mode:
   • Open Settings through Start menu or Windows + I
   • Navigate to System > Recovery
   • Under Advanced startup, click Restart now

2. Follow the boot options:

   • Select Troubleshoot
   • Choose Advanced options
   • Click Startup Settings
   • Select Restart
   • Press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking

3. Launch elevated Command Prompt:

   • Right-click Start
   • Select Windows Terminal (Admin)
   • Click Yes when prompted

4. Run system repair commands:

   DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   

   Wait for completion, then run:

   SFC /scannow
   

Method 2: Run disk check utility

Disk errors can trigger DISM problems. Running CHKDSK helps resolve underlying storage issues.

Using File Explorer:

1. Open File Explorer (Windows + E)
2. Right-click your system drive
3. Select Properties
4. Click Tools tab
5. Under Error checking, click Check

Using Command Prompt:

1. Open elevated Command Prompt
2. Type and enter:

   chkdsk /f
   

3. Press Y when prompted to schedule check

Method 3: System reset

When other methods fail, resetting Windows while keeping or removing files can resolve persistent DISM errors.

1. Open Settings > System > Recovery
2. Click Reset PC
3. Choose Keep my files or Remove everything

4. Select reset method:
   • Cloud download (recommended, requires internet)
   • Local reinstall (uses existing files)

5. Configure additional settings:

   • Clean data option
   • Drive selection
   • Windows source

6. Review settings and click Reset