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6 Easy Ways to Fix Bad Image Error on Windows 10

Using a system maintenace tool is the easiest solution

8 min. read

Updated onAugust 30, 2024

updated onAugust 30, 2024

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You should read this guide entirely if you have encountered a bad image error in Windows 10 or 11.

DLL errors are not uncommon on Windows platforms. These error messages usually pop up because a Dynamic Link Library file has gone missing or is corrupted. This message highlights an issue with the DLL file specified in it.

The error message above can specify many different DLL files. Users can’t run and utilize the software for which the Bad Image DLL error arises.

Maintenance softwarecan help resolve the issue, but other options are described below.

What causes bad image error?

When you try to run a Windows program, but it does not run correctly, it is a poor image error.

The cause is that the user may encounter a poor image error because the program’s required files or libraries may be damaged, or the operation may be interrupted.

Additionally, any of the following can lead to the error:

Whatever the case may be, you should try our solutions listed below.

What are other instances of the Bad Image error?

As we outlined above, the Bad Image error is an issue with a missing or corrupt DLL; thus, it can occur in many Windows applications. Here are some of the most encountered Bad Image errors:

Is Bad Image error a virus?

Though unlikely, a virus could throw the Bad Image error persistently. Some known malware replicate the error box and message and have the user purchase a fake antivirus. Running a full system scan with an effective antivirus should clear things up.

In case the scan cannot identify any virus or malware on the system, it’s safe to believe that the error message is genuine. Here, you can easily fix things with the solutions listed in the next section.

How can I fix theBad Imageerror?

1. Fix the issue with system maintenance software

Some third-party system maintenance software might fix the Bad Image DLL issue.

There are different forms ofsystem maintenance software, but some include repair tools that can fix various PC issues.

2. Run DISM and SFC scans

3. Uninstall recent Windows updates

This resolution is for fixing the Bad Image error when it arises after recent Windows updates. For example, a defective update might be the culprit if the Bad Image DLL issue occurs when your PC has just received updates.

4. Reinstall the software that manifests the Bad Image error

You can uninstall software and more thoroughly remove leftovers with third-party uninstaller utilities.

Thus, you canproceed with the most efficient uninstaller programsoffering complete uninstallation for any problematic apps on your PC.

5. Roll back Windows

6. Copy the specified DLL from another PC

You can also download DLL system files from DLL websites. However, make sure you download the DLL from a reputable source.

Scan any downloaded DLL with an antivirus utility, back up the original DLL file before replacing it with an alternative.

How can I fix a bad image error on Windows 11?

If you have read this far, we have good news for you. The solutions listed in this guide to fix bad image errors in Windows 10 will work on Windows 11.

Both operating systems are very similar, so you should be able to reproduce these steps without breaking a sweat.

Pick the most appropriate solutions and try them out on your Windows 11 devices.

So, now you know how to fix the Bad Image error in Windows 7, 8, and 10. The last resort resolution is to reinstall or reset Windows.

In extreme cases, you may have toperform a factory reset, which will help you get a fresh start on your device and resolve any old issues.

Before you go, you might want to check our guide on theBound Image Unsupportedand see how to fix it properly.

If you have any other solutions or suggestions, don’t hesitate to mention them in the comments section below.

6 Easy Ways to Fix Bad Image Error on Windows 10#

How can I fix theBad Imageerror?#

1. Fix the issue with system maintenance software#

2. Run DISM and SFC scans#

3. Uninstall recent Windows updates#

4. Reinstall the software that manifests the Bad Image error#

5. Roll back Windows#

6. Copy the specified DLL from another PC#

How can I fix a bad image error on Windows 11?#