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How to Fix ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE 191 (0xBF) Issue

2024/11/06
PC Repair

Key Notes

  • Verify the application path to ensure it’s correct.
  • Use compatibility mode for older Windows versions.
  • Reinstall the application if issues persist.

Confronting the ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE: A Comprehensive Guide

The ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE, or code 191 (0xBF), is a common Windows error indicating compatibility issues, primarily when launching an incompatible application. This guide provides effective solutions and preventive measures to tackle this error head-on.

How to Fix ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE

Step 1: Confirm the Application Path

Commence your troubleshooting by verifying the path of the application causing the issue. Errors often arise when the specified path is incorrect or when multiple instances of the executable exist. Ensuring there’s only one instance can mitigate this issue.

Step 2: Run Application in Compatibility Mode

To address the compatibility of the application, follow these steps:

  1. Right-click the executable file and choose Properties.
  2. In the Compatibility tab, check the box for Run this program in compatibility mode for and select an earlier Windows version from the dropdown.
  3. Click Apply and then OK. Reopen the application to test if the issue has been resolved.
  4. If the error persists, consider selecting different Windows versions for compatibility testing.

Step 3: Repair Corrupted System Files

Corrupted system files can lead to the ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE. To repair them, execute:

  1. Open the Run dialog by pressing Windows + S, type Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the UAC window, click Yes.
  3. Run the following DISM commands: DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth , DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth , and DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth .
  4. Then, perform an SFC scan with: sfc /scannow .
  5. Reboot your PC after the scanning process and check for the error.

Step 4: Update All Device Drivers

Outdated or corrupt drivers can cause application errors such as ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE. To update drivers:

  1. Open the Power User menu using Windows + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand each category, right-click on each device, and select Update driver.
  3. Choose Search automatically for drivers so Windows can find and install the latest drivers for you.
  4. After all drivers are updated, restart your system for the changes to take effect.

Step 5: Reinstall the Affected Application

If the error persists, reinstall the application:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
  2. Locate the troublesome application from the list, click on it, and select Uninstall.
  3. Follow the prompts to uninstall, then restart your PC.
  4. Download and reinstall the application from a trusted source to check if the issue is resolved.

Pro Tip: Utilize reliable uninstaller software for a thorough removal of leftover components that might be causing conflicts.

Step 6: Perform a System Restore

If you struggle to identify the cause of the ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE, use System Restore to revert recent system changes:

  1. Open Search with Windows + S, type Create a restore point, and select the result.
  2. In the System Properties window, click on System Restore.
  3. If you have a restore point saved, select Choose a different restore point and click Next.
  4. Select a restore point from before the error beginning and click Next.
  5. Confirm your selections, click Finish, and agree to the confirmation.
  6. Wait for the restoration to process, which may take between 15 to 30 minutes.

If you can’t find a solution within these troubleshooting steps, consider reinstalling Windows as a last resort, which resolves other similar issues as well.

Additional Tips

  • Ensure your application is compatible with your operating system.
  • Run malware and antivirus scans to eliminate potential threats.
  • Keep all system software up to date to mitigate errors.

Summary

The ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE can be a frustrating error for Windows users. This guide has outlined various steps to troubleshoot and resolve the issue, from verifying paths to reinstalling applications. Following these steps can help ensure your applications run smoothly.

Conclusion

Understanding and resolving the ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE requires careful troubleshooting but can often be rectified through a few systematic steps. Should you encounter persistent errors, you might need to explore options like system restoration or consider the possibility of a deeper system issue.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What does ERROR_INVALID_EXE_SIGNATURE mean?

It indicates that the application you are trying to run is incompatible with your operating system architecture, usually stemming from an attempt to run a 64-bit application on a 32-bit OS.

How can I prevent this error in the future?

Always verify the compatibility of any application with your version of Windows before installation and keep your system software up to date to avoid encountering errors.

PC Repair