DISM vs SFC: What Should I Run First on Windows 10?
Should I run SFC or DISM first to repair file or system image corruptions on my Windows 10 computer? Most websites suggest running one or both of these tools. When should you run each or both? This post tries to explain.
The System File Checker is integrated with Windows Resource Protection, which protects registry keys and folders as well as critical system files. If any changes are detected to a protected system file, the modified file is restored from a cached copy located in the Windows folder itself.
You can use the DISM Tool (Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management) to update the files and correct the problem. It can be useful if your System File Checker is not working, and it can also be used to fix Windows component store corruption or if a Windows image becomes unserviceable.
Should I Run SFC or DISM First?
Here is the recommended order:
1. Run System File Checker (SFC) to fix any system file corruption from the resident component store.
In an elevated command prompt, execute:
sfc /scannowThis does not require Internet access.
If this does not help, you may need to repair the Windows Component Store itself.
2. Run DISM to repair the Windows Component Store.
In an elevated command prompt, execute:
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealthThis will fix any system image corruption from a Windows Update source. This may require internet access.
This should resolve all issues.
3. Optionally, run SFC again.
Run SFC a second time to fix any potential system file corruption from the newly repaired component store and to verify that DISM was successful in repairing the errors.