How to Enable the WMIC Feature on Windows Server 2025
Why is WMIC missing?
Windows Server 2025 no longer includes WMIC (Windows Management Instrumentation Command‑line) by default. The tool has been deprecated by Microsoft, but it is still available as a Feature on Demand (FoD) for compatibility with third‑party tools.WMIC has been officially deprecated since 2016 and is being phased out in favor of PowerShell CIM/WMI cmdlets. Starting with Windows Server 2025, the wmic.exe binary is not installed by default, which can result in a failure to install the R1Soft Windows Backup Agent.
How to install the WMIC (Windows Management Instrumentation Command-line) Feature on Demand
Option 1: Enable WMIC Using the Graphical Interface (GUI)
This method is ideal for administrators who prefer the Windows Settings experience.
Steps
- Open Settings
- Navigate to System
- Select Optional features
- Click Add an optional feature
- Search for WMIC
- Select WMIC and click Install
Windows will download and install the feature automatically. A reboot is typically not required.
Verify Installation
Open a Command Prompt and run:
If the help text appears, WMIC is successfully enabled.
Option 2: Enable WMIC from the Command Line (DISM)
This is the fastest and most automation‑friendly method. Run the following command from either Command Prompt or PowerShell (run as Administrator).
This command installs the WMIC Feature on Demand directly into the running OS image.
Verify Installation
Open a Command Prompt and run:
Successful output confirms the feature is active.