How to fix
MicrosoftSecurityApp.exe Bad Image Error 0xc0e90002
on Windows

Whenever I log into Windows, I receive a pop-up which is titled MicrosoftSecurityApp.exe - Bad Image. The mentioned error code is 0xc0e90002. How do I fix this?

Bad Image errors in Windows, such as the MicrosoftSecurityApp.exe Bad Image Error 0xc0e90002, can be particularly perplexing and disruptive for users. These errors generally occur when Windows tries to load a file or program that is not compatible with its system or has been corrupted.

The error message typically includes the file name and an error code, in this case, 0xc0e90002, indicating the specific nature of the problem. This type of error can affect the functionality of the application involved and, in some cases, may impact the overall performance of the PC.

The MicrosoftSecurityApp.exe Bad Image Error 0xc0e90002 specifically pertains to an issue with the Microsoft Security application, a crucial component for maintaining the security and integrity of your system.

This error could arise for a variety of reasons, including corruption of system files, which might happen due to an incomplete installation, an interrupted update process, or the presence of malware. Another possible reason could be conflicts with other software or outdated drivers that hinder the proper functioning of the Microsoft Security application.

To address this issue, you can start by checking for any available updates for your Windows operating system and the Microsoft Security application, as keeping software up-to-date is crucial for both security and functionality.

Additionally, running a comprehensive scan for malware could help identify and remove any malicious software that might be causing the error. It is also advisable to perform a system file check to identify and repair any corrupted system files that may be contributing to the problem.

Finally, for a more comprehensive approach to resolving the MicrosoftSecurityApp.exe Bad Image Error 0xc0e90002 and other similar issues, consider using a reliable PC repair tool. These tools are designed to automatically diagnose and fix a range of underlying Windows issues, potentially saving you time and effort in troubleshooting complex problems.

Fix 1. Disable Windows S mode

Windows S mode is a feature in Windows that enhances security and performance by allowing only apps from the Microsoft Store and requiring Microsoft Edge for safe browsing. However, this restriction can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with certain applications and may result in Bad Image errors. Disabling Windows S mode allows you to run applications from outside the Microsoft Store, which can resolve these compatibility issues.

• Open the Settings app on your PC.
• Navigate to the Update & Security section.
• Click on Activation on the left-hand menu.
• Look for the Switch to Windows 10/11 Home or Switch to Windows 10/11 Pro section.
• Select the Go to the Store link and click Get.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the switch out of S mode.

Fix 2. Run SFC and DISM

The System File Checker and Deployment Image Servicing and Management are tools in Windows that scan for and restore corrupt system files. These tools can be effective in fixing Bad Image errors, as such errors often arise from corrupted or missing system files.

• Type cmd in Windows search.
• Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
• The User Account Control window will ask whether you want to allow changes - click Yes.
• In the Command Prompt window, paste the following command and hit Enter:
  sfc /scannow
• Once the scan is complete, use the following commands and press Enter after each:
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
  Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
• Restart your device.

Fix 3. Perform an in-place upgrade

An in-place upgrade reinstalls Windows while keeping your files, settings, and applications intact. This process can resolve system-related issues causing Bad Image errors by refreshing the Windows installation.

• Visit the official Microsoft website and download Windows 10 installation media (Windows 11 version).
• Double-click the installer, select Yes when UAC shows up, and agree to the terms.
• Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
• Windows will start downloading the needed files.
• Agree to the terms once again and click Next.
• Before installing, ensure you are happy with your choices (otherwise, you can click the Change what to keep option).
• Finally, click Install to begin the upgrade process.

Fix 4. Scan your PC for malware

Malware can often cause system errors, including Bad Image errors, by corrupting files or interfering with system processes. Running a malware scan can help identify and remove any malicious software that might be affecting your system.

You can use Microsoft Security Scanner is a free option, as well as the built-in Windows Defender. If you choose the latter, follow these steps:

• Type in Windows Security in Windows search and press Enter.
• Select Virus & threat protection.
• Pick Scan options.
• Select Microsoft Defender Offline scan and click Scan now.
• The computer will now restart, and the scan begin.

Fix 5. Check for hard drive errors

Hard drive errors can result in corrupted files, leading to Bad Image errors. Checking your hard drive for errors and fixing them can resolve these issues.

• Open Command Prompt as administrator.
• In the new window, type in the following command and press Enter after:
  chkdsk c: /f
  (Note: use chkdsk c: /f /r /x command if you are using SSD as your primary partition)
• If you receive an error, type in Y, close down Command Prompt and restart your system.
• Wait until the scan is finished - you can find the results in the Event Viewer.

Fix 6. Restore the system to a previous point

System Restore can take your PC back to an earlier point in time, potentially before the Bad Image error occurred. This can undo recent changes that might have caused the error.

• Type in Create a Restore point in Windows search and hit Enter.
• Go to the System Protection tab and pick System Restore.
• Click Next.
• Click Show more restore points (if available).
• Pick the time before the problem occurred and click Next.
• Follow the prompts to finish the process.