STATUS_IMAGE_CHECKSUM_MISMATCH — Causes & Fix
Windows Stop code 0xC0000221 (STATUS_IMAGE_CHECKSUM_MISMATCH) means a system file or driver failed its integrity (checksum) check — the file is corrupt or damaged.
- Applies to
- Any Windows PC
- Time to fix
- 30 minutes – 2 hours
What it means
Causes include a corrupted system file/driver, bad RAM/disk during a write, or a failed update. This is a Windows Stop error (a "bugcheck" / blue screen) documented by Microsoft. The blue screen shows this code; more detail sits in the crash dump (%SystemRoot%\Minidump), which usually names the specific driver or component at fault — a free tool like BlueScreenView or WinDbg can read it.
Symptoms
- Blue screen citing 0xC0000221 (often naming a file)
- Boot failure after an update or bad shutdown
How to fix it
- 1
Repair or replace the file
1. Note the file named on the blue screen. 2. Run SFC/DISM; replace the specific corrupt driver/file if needed.
- 2
Test RAM/disk
1. Test memory and run chkdsk, since corruption during writes can cause it.
Frequently asked questions
0xC0000221 names a file — what now?
That file is corrupt. Repair with SFC/DISM (from Recovery if it won't boot), or replace that specific driver/file, and test RAM/disk.
Last updated July 20, 2026
Guidance only — always consult a qualified professional or the official service manual before carrying out repairs.