️ How to Repair Windows with an ISO File
In a previous article we talked about the DISM and how to use it to fix any problems in Windows. Today we'll go a step further and show you a simple guide to fixing problems in Windows without reinstalling.
If your Windows is having problems, freezing, or displaying errors, there is a way to fix it using the original Windows installation file (ISO file). This guide will help you do it step by step, without having to be an expert!
Step 1: Preparing the ISO File
First, you need the Windows installation file (ISO). This file contains all the necessary files for the operating system.
- Find the Windows ISO file on your computer (e.g. in a folder or on an external drive) or download it from the official website. Microsoft.
- Do it double click on the file or right click and select "Mount".
- The file will appear as a new drive on your computer with a letter (e.g. D:, E:, F:, etc.).
- Open the new disk and make sure there is a folder named
sources.
⚠️ Important Note about Drive Letters
Every computer assigns different letters to its drives (C:, D:, E:, etc.). Note which letter your computer assigned to the ISO file you mounted — you'll need it in the next step!
Step 2: Run the Repair Command
Now we will use a special command to fix Windows:
- Press the button Start of Windows.
- Write "cmd" in the search.
- Right click on "Command Prompt" and chose "Run as administrator".
- If a control message (UAC) appears, click "Yes".
- A black window with white letters will open.
💡 Alternative ways to open Command Prompt as administrator:
- Keyboard shortcut: He pressed Windows + R, write
cmdand stepped on Ctrl + Shift + Enter. - From Task Manager: He pressed Ctrl + Shift + I → File → Run a new task → write
cmd→ check "Create this task with administrator privileges" → OK.
Copy and paste the following command (press the copy button):
Caution: The example uses the letter D:You must change it to the letter that your computer displayed when you mounted the ISO!
🧠 Note:
If inside the folder sources there is no file install.wim but install.esd, then change the command as follows:
You can also add the prefix wim: ή esd: (as above), to be sure that DISM will correctly identify the file.
- Paste the command into the black window (right click and "Paste").
- He pressed Enter.
- Wait a few minutes until the process is complete.
What Does the Command Do?
Let's see in simple words what each part of the command means:
/Online= Repairs the Windows you are currently using./RestoreHealth= Finds and repairs corrupted files./Source= Specifies where the correct files will be pulled from (from the ISO).:1= Selects the Windows edition (e.g. Home, Pro)./LimitAccess= Uses only ISO and not the Internet.
How to Find the Right Version of Windows
If you are not sure which version of Windows you have (the :1 in the command), you can find out with the following command:
This command will show you a list of all available versions. Find yours and use the corresponding number.
🎯 When to Use This Method
- ✔ When Windows is not updating properly.
- ✔ When errors and error messages appear frequently.
- ✔ When some programs don't open or crash.
- ✔ When the computer freezes or slows down for no reason.
- ✔ When you want to avoid reinstalling Windows.
(I.e. Last updated: December 2025
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