Fix: The Digital Signature for This File Couldn’t Be Verified (Error 0xc0000428)

Sometimes, when booting into Windows, you may encounter the error message: “The digital signature for this file couldn’t be verified (Error 0xc0000428).” Usually, you may encounter this error after installing a new hardware device, application software or driver update. This issue occurs because Windows requires digitally signed drivers and boot files for security purposes. If the file in question has an invalid, missing, or outdated digital signature, Windows will block it from loading, leading to this error. This article explores what is Digital Signature, the cause of error 0xc0000428 and provides multiple solutions to help you fix it and restore system functionality.

What is Digital Signature?

Digital signatures are cryptographic markers embedded in files to verify their authenticity and integrity. They assure users that the file originates from a trusted source and hasn’t been tampered with. Error 0xc0000428 arises when Windows cannot validate the digital signature of a file, leading to security warnings and preventing the file from running.

Several reasons can trigger this digital signature verification error

• Unsigned or improperly signed drivers – If a driver or system file lacks a valid digital signature, Windows may refuse to load it.
• Corrupt or outdated boot files – Windows Boot Manager or essential system files might be outdated or damaged.
• Recent Windows update – An update may have changed the boot process, requiring reinstallation or updating of system components.
• Malware or unauthorized modifications – Malicious software or unauthorized changes to system files can interfere with digital signatures.
• Dual-boot issues – If you have multiple operating systems installed, boot conflicts may arise, leading to signature verification errors.

Sometimes, a simple restart can fix temporary system glitches by refreshing system processes and clearing memory issues.

Boot into Advanced Startup Options

Since this error prevents normal booting, you must access Windows Recovery Mode to apply fixes. Advanced Startup Options provide tools such as Startup Repair, System Restore, and Command Prompt to troubleshoot boot issues.

1. Power on your PC and force shutdown (hold the power button) when the Windows logo appears. Repeat this 2-3 times until you see Advanced Startup Options.
2. Select Troubleshoot > Advanced Options.
3. From here, try different troubleshooting methods as outlined below.

Disable driver signature enforcement

Driver Signature Enforcement is a security feature that blocks unsigned drivers from running. Temporarily disabling it allows Windows to boot and gives you a chance to update or reinstall faulty drivers.

1. In Advanced Startup Options, select Startup Settings > Restart.
2. Press F7 or 7 to select Disable Driver Signature Enforcement.
3. Restart your PC and check if it boots normally.
4. If successful, consider updating or reinstalling affected drivers to prevent future issues.

Disable Digital Signature permanently

To Disable The Digital Signature permanently open the Command prompt as administrator. Then Type bcdedit /set testsigning on and press enter. You will receive a “The operation completed successfully” message. that’s all Now close the command prompt window and restart your computer. From now on, you will be able to install or run any unsigned driver or program without problems.

In case you want to enable driver signature enforcement in the future and avoid security risks, then again open Admin Command Prompt, type bcdedit /set testsigning off, and hit enter key.

Rebuild the Boot Configuration Data (BCD)

The Boot Configuration Data (BCD) is crucial for Windows startup. If it’s corrupted or missing, error 0xc0000428 can occur. Rebuilding the BCD can restore proper boot functionality.

From Advanced Startup Options, select Command Prompt, type following commands and press Enter after each:

bootrec /fixmbr
bootrec /fixboot
bootrec /scanos
bootrec /rebuildbcd

Once done, restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

Update Boot Manager

Windows Boot Manager may be outdated or misconfigured, preventing the system from verifying digital signatures properly. Updating it can resolve the issue.

• Open Command Prompt from Advanced Startup Options.
• Run command bcdedit /set {current} bootmgr path \EFI\Microsoft\Boot\bootmgfw.efi
• Restart your PC and check if the error is resolved.

Use Automatic Repair

Windows has a built-in tool to diagnose and fix boot-related problems automatically. This tool can repair corrupt boot files and resolve digital signature verification issues.

1. Go to Advanced Startup Options > Troubleshoot.
2. Select Advanced Options > Startup Repair.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to let Windows attempt an automatic fix.

Restore Windows to a Previous State

If the error started after a recent change, (such as an update, driver installation, or software modification), restoring Windows to an earlier working state can undo those changes and resolve the issue.

1. Boot into Advanced Startup Options > System Restore.
2. Select a restore point before the issue occurs and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Restart your PC and check if the issue is resolved.

Check for Windows Updates

An outdated system can cause signature verification issues. Installing the latest Windows updates ensures that security and compatibility fixes are applied.

1. Boot into Safe Mode with Networking (if possible).
2. Open Settings > Windows Update.
3. Check for updates and install any pending ones.
4. Restart your PC and test for the error.

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling Windows may be necessary. A fresh installation removes all corrupted files and ensures a clean system.