How to Fix DISM The source files could not be found

Question

Hi,

I'm in a situation where there are several windows servers 2016 that could not apply patches after reboot - they revert back.

I've checked the Setup Event Log, there is the following error:

Source: Servicing

Details: Package KBXXXX Failed to be changed to the installed state. Status: 0x80073712

I've checked the CBS.log file and there are CBS Store corruption errors.
The OS itself can't access the Windows Update - corporate restrictions exist.

I've looked into the following article:
https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-hardware/manufacture/desktop/configure-a-windows-repair-source?view=windows-11

• Downloaded the ISO File from Microsoft Evaluation
• Extracted Install.WIM file
• Applied Latest Servicing Stack and Cumulative Update with DISM to the correct Index's WIM
• Uploaded the WIM file into a file share with the right NTFS and Share permissions.
• used the following command: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth /Source:WIM:X:sourcesinstall.wim:IndexNumber /LimitAccess

I'm getting the following error in the DISM log:

The source files could not be found

On the CBS.log file - I got the following error:

Answer 1

Hi. Thank you for your question and reaching out. I’d be more than happy to help you with your query

The "The source files could not be found" error message in DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) usually occurs when you're trying to install, repair, or upgrade an operating system using a Windows Image file, but the source files can't be found or are inaccessible. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:

1. Check the source path: Make sure that the path to the Windows Image file is correct and that the image file is accessible.
2. Use the correct source option: When running DISM, use the correct source option for the type of image you're trying to use. For example, use the /Source option for a Windows image file, or the /Online option for an online Windows installation.
3. Check the Windows Image file: If you're using a Windows Image file, make sure that the file is not corrupted and that it has the necessary files and components to install or repair the operating system.
4. Use the correct architecture: Ensure that you're using the correct architecture (i.e. x86 or x64) for the image you're trying to install, repair, or upgrade.
5. Try an alternate source: If you're still encountering the error, try using a different source for the image file, such as a network share or a local drive.
6. Repair the Windows installation: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, you can try repairing the Windows installation by running DISM with the /Cleanup-Image and /RestoreHealth options.
7. Re-download the Windows Image file: If the above steps don't work, try re-downloading the Windows Image file from a trusted source.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the "The source files could not be found" error in DISM and successfully install, repair, or upgrade your operating system.

If the reply was helpful, please don’t forget to upvote or accept as answer, thank you.

Answer 2

Double post