Four Methods to Fixing DLL Not Designed to Run on Windows

The "DLL not designed to run on Windows" error, a Bad Image error, prevents application installation or execution. This guide provides solutions to resolve this issue.

Understanding the Error

This error can affect various DLLs (e.g., msvcr100.dll, msvcr110.dll, msvcp140.dll, lmirfsclientnp.dll), indicating diverse causes. The error message reads: "Bad Image – DLL is either not designed to run on Windows or it contains an error. Try installing the program again using the original installation media or contact your system administrator or the software vendor for support."

Common causes include:

• Faulty Windows updates
• Corrupted system files
• Missing or damaged DLL files
• Problematic software installations

Solutions

While reinstalling a faulty DLL from a reputable source is an option, proceed cautiously to avoid introducing malware. Here are more comprehensive solutions:

1. System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) Scans:

These built-in tools repair system file corruption.

• Step 1: Open Command Prompt as administrator (search for "Command Prompt," right-click, and select "Run as administrator").
• Step 2: Run sfc /scannow and wait for the scan to complete.
• Step 3: Run DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth.
• Step 4: Restart your computer.

2. Malware/Virus Scan:

Malicious software can corrupt or delete DLL files. Scan your system using Windows Defender or a third-party antivirus program.

• Step 1: Navigate to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Security > Virus & threat protection.
• Step 2: Select Scan options > Full scan > Scan now.

3. Reinstall Affected Programs:

If the error occurs when running a specific program, reinstalling it might resolve the issue.

• Step 1: Open the "Programs and Features" window (press Win R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter).
• Step 2: Uninstall the problematic program and reinstall it from the official source.

4. Uninstall and Reinstall Windows Updates:

If the error appeared after a Windows update, try uninstalling and reinstalling the update. This might restore missing system components. Caution: Back up your data before attempting this, as it carries a risk of data loss. Use a backup solution like MiniTool ShadowMaker for comprehensive data protection.

• Step 1: Go to Start > Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update > View update history.
• Step 2: Click Uninstall updates, select the problematic update, and uninstall it.
• Step 3: Restart your computer, and then check for updates to reinstall the update.

As a last resort, consider a clean Windows installation. This should only be done after attempting all other solutions and backing up your data.

Conclusion:

By following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the "DLL not designed to run on Windows" error and restore the functionality of your affected applications.

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