ImportError: DLL load failed while importing _pywrap_tensorflow_internal on Windows 11 with Python 3.11

Hello,

I am encountering an ImportError when trying to import TensorFlow after a fresh installation. I have been unable to resolve this issue and am seeking assistance. The environment details and error message are provided below.

Environment Information:

  • Operating System: Windows 11
  • Python Version: 3.11.7
  • TensorFlow Version: 2.19.0
  • Installation Method: pip within a virtual environment.

What I have already tried:

  • I have a comprehensive set of Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributable packages installed, including the 2015-2022 version. I have also attempted a “repair” installation of the vc_redist.x64.exe file.
  • I have tried uninstalling and reinstalling TensorFlow.
  • The issue appears recently, as this setup previously worked without problems.

The Error:

When I run import tensorflow as tf, I receive the following stack trace:

import tensorflow as tf

---------------------------------------------------------------------------
ImportError                               Traceback (most recent call last)
File d:\VS CODE FILES\DEEP LEARNING PROJECTS\.venvDL\Lib\site-packages\tensorflow\python\pywrap_tensorflow.py:73
     72 try:
---> 73   from tensorflow.python._pywrap_tensorflow_internal import *
     74 # This try catch logic is because there is no bazel equivalent for py_extension.
...
ImportError: Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "d:\VS CODE FILES\DEEP LEARNING PROJECTS\.venvDL\Lib\site-packages\tensorflow\python\pywrap_tensorflow.py", line 73, in <module>
    from tensorflow.python._pywrap_tensorflow_internal import *
ImportError: DLL load failed while importing _pywrap_tensorflow_internal: A dynamic link library (DLL) initialization routine failed.


Failed to load the native TensorFlow runtime.
See https://www.tensorflow.org/install/errors for some common causes and solutions.
If you need help, create an issue at https://github.com/tensorflow/tensorflow/issues and include the entire stack trace above this error message.

Additional Context:

  • The system is a 64-bit machine.
  • I am using Visual Studio Code with a Python virtual environment.

Any suggestions on how to troubleshoot this further would be greatly appreciated. I appreciate your help.

Hi @Puspendu,
Welcome to the TensorFlow forum!
There are a few possible reasons for this issue:

  • Your CPU doesn’t support the AVX2 instructions required by TensorFlow.
  • There could be an an incompatibility with your 64-bit Python or CPU and the current installation.
  • A necessary library is missing or in the wrong location, so it can’t be loaded.
    To fix this, you should try reinstalling or updating your C++ redistributable. Also, make sure to check the hardware requirements for TensorFlow to ensure your system is compatible. Also, Please try using a different Python version, such as 3.10 or 3.11 and let us know if the issue persists. Thank you!