How to Resolve Error 218 (0xDA): Exe Cannot Modify Strong-Signed Binary

The Error_Exe_Cannot_Modify_Strong_Signed_Binary is a rare issue typically encountered by developers. Although it’s an uncommon problem, this guide offers steps to help you resolve it should you face it.

How to Resolve Error_Exe_Cannot_Modify_Strong_Signed_Binary?

1. Ensure Windows and All Drivers are Updated

1. Utilize the Windows key + I combination to launch the Settings menu.
2. Select the Windows Update section.
3. Hit the Check for updates button.
   

   

4. Any available updates will be downloaded automatically in the background.

In addition to operating system updates, don’t forget to keep your motherboard, graphics card, and other drivers up to date.

2. Perform a System Scan

1. Press Windows key + S, type in cmd, and select Run as administrator.
2. Input the command sfc /scannow
   

   

3. Allow the scan to complete.
4. Next, run the commands below to further analyze your system: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
5. If any problems are indicated by the DISM scan, execute the following command to repair them: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
   

   

Be aware that these scanning processes can be time-consuming, so it’s advisable not to interrupt them.

3. Turn Off Startup Applications

1. Press Windows key + R and type msconfig.
   

   

2. Once opened, navigate to the Services tab. Check the box for Hide all Microsoft services and then click Disable all.
   

   

3. Click Apply and OK, but postpone restarting your computer.
4. Open Task Manager by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Esc.
5. In the Startup section, disable all applications by selecting them one at a time and clicking Disable.
   

   

6. Now, restart your PC.

If the error does not reappear, repeat the previous steps by enabling services and startup applications in groups until you identify the problematic one.

4. Use System Restore

1. Press the Windows key + R and enter rstrui.
   

   

2. Pick the preferred restore point and click Next.
   

   

3. Follow the on-screen instructions to finish the process.

If you still see the Error_Exe_Cannot_Modify_Strong_Signed_Binary after performing a system restore, consider executing a factory reset on Windows 11 as a final measure. If the error persists, it could indicate a hardware issue, so it’s crucial to check your hardware components.

This error is not isolated; you might also come across issues like CRYPTO_LIBRARY_INTERNAL_ERROR and SECURE_KERNEL_ERROR.

The Error_Exe_Cannot_Modify_Strong_Signed_Binary message is associated with the following error code: 218 (0xDA) The image file %1 is strong signed, unable to modify.

Although this error may be obscure, should you encounter it, try the solutions outlined in this guide and share which one resolved your issue.

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