FIX DISM Error: The scratch directory size might be insufficient to perform this operation.

The tutorial contains instructions to fix the following DISM error: "The scratch directory size might be insufficient to perform this operation. This can cause unexpected behavior. Use the /ScratchDir option to point to a folder with sufficient scratch space". The recommended size is 1024 MB. (Error 5)"

The above error may appear when you run any DISM command from the Windows Recovery Environment –> Command Prompt, in Windows 10, 8 or 7 OS.

How to fix the DISM error: The scratch directory size might be insufficient to perform this operation.

To solve the "The scratch directory size might be insufficient to perform this operation" error in DISM, you have to specify a scratch directory in the drive which contains the "Windows" folder.

1. By using the DIR (e.g. "dir D:"), or the BCDEDIT command, find out in which drive, is located the Windows folder.

2. For example, if the "Windows" folder is located at drive "D:", then navigate to the Windows drive by typing its drive letter (e.g. D: )

3. Create a new folder and name it "Scratch", by typing this command:

• mkdir D:\Scratch

4. Then add the "/ScratchDir:D:\Scratch" option, on the DISM command: *

Example No 1:
– If you want to repair the offline Windows image by using the DISM command, you have to type this command:

• DISM /Image:D:\ /ScratchDir:D:\Scratch /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth

Example No 2:
– If you want to rollback your system, after an unsuccessful Windows update by using the DISM command, then type:

• DISM /Image:D:\ /ScratchDir:D:\Scratch /Cleanup-Image /RevertPendingActions

Example No 3:
– If you want to remove a specific update package, by using the DISM command, then type:

• dism /image:D:\ /ScratchDir:D:\Scratch /Remove-Package /PackageName:Package_for_RollupFix~31bf3856ad364e35~amd64~~16299.192.1.9

* Note: Change the drive letter D according your case.

That's it! Let me know if this guide has helped you by leaving your comment about your experience. Please like and share this guide to help others.

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Konstantinos Tsoukalas

Konstantinos is the founder and administrator of Wintips.org. Since 1995 he works and provides IT support as a computer and network expert to individuals and large companies. He is specialized in solving problems related to Windows or other Microsoft products (Windows Server, Office, Microsoft 365, etc.).

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