Windows & BSOD · critical

How to fix0xC0000428

Digital Signature Verification Failure (0xC0000428)

What this error means

Digital Signature Verification Failure (0xC0000428) ranks as a critical-severity Windows operating system issue in our database. Error code 0xC0000428 indicates that Windows Boot Manager could not verify the digital signature of a recently installed driver or system file. This prevents Windows from starting up properly. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Note any recent driver or hardware changes. If Windows cannot start, use the startup guide first.

Work through these checks

0 of 4 complete
01Disable Driver Signature Enforcement from the Advanced Startup Options menu

Disable Driver Signature Enforcement from the Advanced Startup Options menu.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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02Use Bootrec to repair the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

Use Bootrec to repair the Boot Configuration Data (BCD).

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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03Roll back or uninstall the problematic driver in Safe Mode

Roll back or uninstall the problematic driver in Safe Mode.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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04Update the offending driver file

Update the offending driver file.

Use the instructions for your exact device and operating system. Check the manufacturer’s documentation before changing firmware, hardware, or system settings.

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Possible causes

  • Outdated driver files with expired or invalid digital signatures
  • Corrupted boot configuration data (BCD)
  • Unsigned drivers installed on 64-bit systems with driver signature enforcement enabled