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Fix 0x80070005 DISM Error & the 0x800070005 Typo

Guide 10-37922 · Updated · Step by step

This guide explains how to resolve the Windows DISM error 0x80070005 (Access Denied) and the common typo 0x800070005 that appears when someone mistypes the error code. The fix involves running DISM with elevated permissions, checking file permissions, and verifying your Windows image. Follow the steps below to get DISM working again.

What You’ll Need

  • Administrator account on your Windows PC
  • Internet connection (for online repair sources)
  • Windows installation media or a working Windows PC (if offline repair is needed)

Step-by-Step

  1. Check the error code – Verify you are dealing with 0x80070005 (Access Denied), not 0x800070005 (a typo that doesn’t exist). The correct code has five zeros after the 8, not six.
  2. Run Command Prompt as Administrator – Press Windows + X, select “Terminal (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin)”. Click “Yes” on the UAC prompt.
  3. Run SFC first – Type sfc /scannow and press Enter. This checks system files and may fix corruption that DISM would otherwise fail on. Wait for the scan to complete.
  4. Run DISM with elevated permissions – In the same admin window, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This is the standard command that triggers the error.
  5. If the error persists, check the Windows Update service – Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter. Find “Windows Update”, right-click it, and select “Start” if it isn’t running. Set its startup type to “Automatic” (right-click → Properties).
  6. Check folder permissions – The error often occurs because DISM cannot access the SoftwareDistribution folder. Open File Explorer, navigate to C:\Windows\SoftwareDistribution, right-click it, select Properties → Security, and ensure the “SYSTEM” account has “Full control”. If not, click “Edit”, select “SYSTEM”, check “Full control”, and apply.
  7. Run DISM with a source – If the online repair fails, use a local source. Mount your Windows installation media or download the Windows ISO, then run: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:D:\sources\install.wim /LimitAccess (replace D: with your drive letter).
  8. Reboot and retry – After any changes, restart your PC and run the DISM command again.

Common Mistakes

  • Typing the error code wrong – 0x800070005 is a common typo. The correct code is 0x80070005. Double-check the number of zeros.
  • Running without admin rights – DISM requires an elevated command prompt. A normal terminal will give the same error.
  • Skipping SFC – SFC and DISM work together. Running DISM first may fail if SFC hasn’t fixed underlying issues.
  • Ignoring the Windows Update service – If the service is disabled, DISM cannot access the online source.

Tips

  • Use the /LogPath parameter to create a detailed log file, e.g., DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /LogPath:C:\dism.log. This helps identify the exact cause.
  • If you have a system restore point, create one before making permission changes.
  • Run the command in an elevated PowerShell as an alternative – it accepts the same syntax.
  • Keep your Windows updated. Many DISM errors are fixed by cumulative updates.

Troubleshooting

If the above steps don’t resolve the error, try these additional measures:

  • Check for third-party antivirus interference – Temporarily disable your antivirus (not Windows Defender) and run DISM again. Some security software blocks system file access.
  • Boot into Safe Mode – Restart your PC, hold Shift while clicking “Restart”, then go to Troubleshoot → Advanced Options → Startup Settings → Restart → press 4 for Safe Mode. Run DISM there.
  • Use the Windows Update troubleshooter – Go to Settings → System → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters → Windows Update → Run. This can fix underlying update issues.
  • Check disk errors – Run chkdsk /f /r in an admin prompt and restart. Disk corruption can cause access denied errors.
  • Repair the Windows image offline – If all else fails, use the installation media to boot and select “Repair your computer” → Troubleshoot → Command Prompt, then run DISM with the offline image path.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error 0x80070005 mean?

It means “Access Denied”. DISM cannot access the files or registry keys it needs to repair the Windows image, usually due to insufficient permissions or a locked system file.

Is 0x800070005 a real error code?

No, it’s a typo. The correct code is 0x80070005. The extra zero in the middle is a common mistake when copying the code manually.

Why does DISM fail even when I run as administrator?

Even with admin rights, DISM can fail if the Windows Update service is stopped, if the SoftwareDistribution folder is corrupted, or if your antivirus is blocking access. Check those first.

Can I run DISM without an internet connection?

Yes, but you need a local source like a Windows ISO or installation media. Use the /Source parameter to point to the install.wim file.

How long does DISM take?

It varies, but typically 10-20 minutes. If it takes longer, it may be stuck; wait at least 30 minutes before considering a different approach.

Will DISM delete my personal files?

No, DISM only repairs system files. Your personal data is untouched.

Related

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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