Fix: DISM Error 0x800f081f “The Source Files Could Not Be Found” in Windows 10/11

Windows 11

If running DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth results in error 0x800f081f, it means Windows cannot find the necessary files to repair the system image. Follow these steps to resolve the issue.

Step 1: Check Windows Version

Ensure that the Windows version matches the ISO you are using:

  1. Press Windows + R, type winver, and press Enter.
  2. Note the Windows version and build number.
  3. Download the matching Windows ISO from Microsoft’s official website:

Step 2: Use the Correct Source Path

If you have mounted the ISO, ensure you are using the correct source path. The typical location is:

DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:X:SourcesInstall.wim /LimitAccess

(Replace X: with the actual drive letter of the mounted ISO.)

Step 3: Convert ESD to WIM (If Needed)

If your ISO contains an install.esd instead of install.wim, convert it:

  1. Open Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Run:
    dism /Get-WimInfo /WimFile:X:sourcesinstall.esd
  3. Note the index number of the Windows edition you need.
  4. Convert it to WIM:
    dism /Export-Image /SourceImageFile:X:sourcesinstall.esd /SourceIndex:1 /DestinationImageFile:C:install.wim /Compress:max /CheckIntegrity
  5. Run the DISM command with the new WIM file:
    DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:C:install.wim /LimitAccess

Step 4: Run Windows Update Troubleshooter

  1. Go to Settings → Update & Security → Troubleshoot.
  2. Select Windows Update and click Run the troubleshooter.
  3. Restart your PC and retry the DISM command.

Step 5: Perform a Windows Repair Install

If the issue persists, perform a repair install without losing data:

  1. Run the Windows ISO and choose Upgrade.
  2. Ensure Keep personal files and apps is selected.
  3. Complete the installation and check if DISM works.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve DISM error 0x800f081f and repair your Windows image.

For more “Windows 11” solutions, please check our Windows 11.

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