How to Fix Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 – Windows 11/10

You might encounter the Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 when attempting to launch or install an application on Windows 10 or Windows 11. This error can prevent the application from functioning correctly or even opening. In this guide, we will explore the steps to resolve this issue.

The “Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020” typically indicates an issue with a program or DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file on your Windows system. This error can occur when Windows tries to load a program or library, and it’s unable to do so due to corruption or other issues. Here are some steps you can take to fix this error:

Solution 1: Use the PC Repair Tool

Frequently, this error arises due to issues like file corruption, missing DLL files, or corrupted registry entries. To address these issues effectively, it’s essential to utilize a dependable PC Repair Tool.

3 Steps to Fix this Error
Step 1. Download Outbyte PC Repair Tool [File Size: 16.4 MB]
Step 2. SCAN your Windows PC
Step 3. Click Fix button to Repair Error
System Requirements       Features      Awards      Windows 11/10/8/7 Comaptible

Solution 2: Run the DISM command.

The Deployment Image Service and Management Tool (DISM) can be used to fix Windows corruption errors. Open a Command Prompt or Windows Terminal with admin 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 & 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 from the command prompt.

Solution 3: Run the 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 behaviour such as Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020. It’s a fundamental troubleshooting step in resolving various Windows-related issues.

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 & 11

Step 2: Now run the following command.

sfc /scannow

Step 3: Let the process finish and then exit from the command prompt.

Solution 4: Reinstall or Repair the Application

If you’re getting this error for a specific application, try to reinstall it or use its repair function (if available). Uninstall the program first, restart your computer, and then reinstall it.

Repair/Reset Application
Windows 11 and Windows 10
Step 1: Go to Start → Settings → Apps → Installed Apps.
1_open_apps_settings
Step 2: Find the apps that is creating runtime error and click on the three dots (…) and select Modify or Advanced options.
2_apps_advanced_options
Step 3: Scroll down to find Repair button and click on it to repair the faulty apps.
3_repair_apps
Step 4: If repairing the application didn’t work, try resetting it by clicking on the Reset button.
4_reset_apps
Windows 8, Windows 7 and Older Version
Step 1: Click on the Start button and Search for the 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 faulty apps → Right click on it → Select Change.
5_repair_apps_installation
Step 4: Follow the instructions and select 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 a point before the error occurred.

System Restore - Steps by Steps
Step 1: Open the Advanced Startup Option or Windows Recovery Environment. Go to the Troubleshoot ➜ Advanced options ➜ System Restore.

system_restore

Step 2: Click Next and then Select Date.

select system restore from the list

Step 3: Click on Finish to start Restoring process.

Summary:

Bad Image Status Error 0xc0000020 occurs due to different reasons and can be fixed by repairing or reinstalling the application, using sfc and dism command, and performing system restore.