(How to Fix Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 - Windows 11/10) How to Fix Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 - Windows 11/10: You may encounter the Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 when trying to run or install an application on Windows 10 or Windows 11. This error can prevent the application from functioning properly or even opening. In this guide, we will explore steps to resolve this issue.
The "Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020" typically indicates a problem with a program or a DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file on your Windows system. This error can occur when Windows attempts to load a program or library but fails due to corruption or other issues. Here are some steps you can take to fix this error:
Solution 1: Use a PC Repair Tool
Often, this error arises from issues such as file corruption or missing DLL files or corrupted registry entries. To effectively address these issues, it is essential to use a reliable PC repair tool.
3 Steps to Fix This Error
Step 1. Download the PC repair tool Outbyte[File Size: 16.4 MB]
Step 2. Scan your Windows computer.
Step 3. Click the "Repair" button to fix the error.
Solution 2: Run DISM Command.
The DISM tool can be used to fix corruption errors in Windows. Open Command Prompt or Windows Terminal with administrative privileges and run these commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth.
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth.
DISM Command - Step by Step
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 8, 10, and 11
Step 2: Now run the following command.
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Step 3: Let the process finish and then exit Command Prompt.
Solution 3: Run System File Checker Tool
SFC is a built-in Windows tool that can scan and repair corrupted system files. Running the SFC tool can be a lifesaver when you encounter unexplained crashes, error messages, or unexpected system behavior like Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020. It is a fundamental troubleshooting step for resolving various issues related to the Windows operating system.
Here’s how to use it:
System File Checker Tool - Step by Step
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
Open Command Prompt as Administrator in Windows 8, 10, and 11
Step 2: Now run the following command.
sfc /scannow
Step 3: Let the process finish and then exit Command Prompt.
Solution 4: Reinstall or Repair the Application
If you are receiving this error for a specific application, try reinstalling it or using its repair function (if available). First, uninstall the program, then restart your computer, and then reinstall it.
Repair/Reset the Application
Windows 11 and Windows 10
Step 1: Go to Start → Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
1_open_apps_settings
Step 2: Look for the apps causing the runtime error and click on the three dots (...) and select Modify or Advanced Options.
2_apps_advanced_options
Step 3: Scroll down to find the Repair button and click it to fix the faulty apps.
3_repair_apps
Step 4: If repairing the app doesn’t work, try resetting it by clicking the "Reset" button.
4_reset_apps
Windows 8, Windows 7, and earlier versions
Step 1: Click the "Start" button and search for "Control Panel" and open it.
Control Panel
Step 2: Go to Programs → Uninstall a Program.
Uninstall Program Option in Control Panel
Step 3: Find the problematic apps → right-click on them → select Change.
5_repair_apps_installation
Step 4: Follow the instructions and select the repair option when you find it.
6_repair_apps_installation
Solution 5: System Restore
If the problem started recently and you have a system restore point, you can try restoring your system to the point before the error occurred.
System Restore - Step by Step
Step 1: Open the Advanced Startup Options or Windows Recovery Environment, go to Troubleshoot ➜ Advanced Options ➜ System Restore.
system_restore
Step 2: Click Next and then select the date.
Select System Restore from the list
Step 3: Click "Finish" to start the restore process.
Conclusion:
The Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 occurs for various reasons and can be fixed by repairing or reinstalling the application, using the sfc and dism commands, and performing a system restore.
