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Error code
0x800f081f

For 0x800f081f during DISM /RestoreHealth. Microsoft identifies CBS_E_SOURCE_MISSING as a missing package or file source. The code alone does not identify a faulty drive; an inaccessible, incomplete or incompatible source requires a different diagnosis. This does not cover every occurrence in feature installers.

DISM error 0x800f081f

Check the repair source DISM cannot use before repeating commands or downloading another image.

Try this first

1 quick checks · ~4 min

  1. Check which source was requestedReview the failed command before running it again.

Step-by-step solutions

01

Check which source was requested

  • Estimated time: 4 min
  • Easy
  • Low risk

Review the failed command before running it again.

  1. Keep the full command and message. If it included /Source, check that the path exists and is accessible to that account; do not treat an example path as valid on your PC.

  2. /LimitAccess prevents Windows Update being used as a source or fallback. On managed devices, ask IT to confirm the repair source and policy.

Sources:
03

Review an alternative source for compatibility

  • Estimated time: 5 min
  • Easy
  • Low risk

An arbitrary ISO does not guarantee the required files.

  1. Ask support for an official source appropriate to the installation. Microsoft warns that a source at an older update level than the target may lack required files.

  2. The source must also include required language components. Do not download individual DLLs or change corporate policies to force a repair.

Sources:
Advanced

Advanced checks

Continue if the earlier steps did not help. Read each procedure’s precautions first.

02

Retry through Windows Update when allowed

  • Estimated time: 20 min
  • Intermediate
  • Moderate risk
  • Administrator required

Only for repairing the Windows installation currently running.

  1. Save your work and open Command Prompt as administrator. If policy permits Windows Update and connectivity is available, run:

  2. Command Prompt
    DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

    Uses the default source without a /Source path or /LimitAccess blocking Windows Update.

  3. Wait for the result. If the source is still missing, do not repeat the command indefinitely; review source compatibility with support.

Sources:
Next step

Still not working?

Give Microsoft or IT the Windows version, command, code and source used. Share logs privately after reviewing personal information. Do not reset Windows solely for this source error.

Sources

Documentation behind this guide. Editorial recommendations are identified separately.

Source review: . A documentation review, not a physical hardware test.