Error message when you start a Windows XP-based computer: "The application or DLL C:\Windows\system32\winspool.drv is not a valid Windows image"

Article ID: 919753 - View products that this article applies to.
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SYMPTOMS

When you start a Microsoft Windows XP-based computer, you receive an error message that resembles the following:
The application or DLL C:\Windows\system32\winspool.drv is not a valid Windows image. Please check this against your installation diskette.
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CAUSE

This problem occurs if the Winspool.drv file is corrupted.
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RESOLUTION

To resolve this problem, follow these steps:
  1. Click Start, click Run, type %Windir%\system32, and then click OK.

    Note %Windir% represents the path of the Windows system folder. Typically, C:\Windows is the path of the Windows system folder.
  2. Right-click the Winspool.drv file, and then click Rename.
  3. Type winspool.drv.old, and then press ENTER.
  4. Restart the computer.
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Properties

Article ID: 919753 - Last Review: June 9, 2006 - Revision: 1.1
APPLIES TO
  • Microsoft Windows XP Professional
  • Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition
Keywords: 
kbtshoot KB919753
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