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How To Fix DLL Errors

A DLL error is usually caused when a DLL file goes missing or becomes corrupt. A DLL file, or Dynamic Link Library file, is a type of program that works with Windows, Windows drivers and Windows software programs. This file contains an executable sub-routine that allows multiple Windows programs and components to perform common tasks thus eliminating the need for duplicate coding.

Why do DLLs go missing or become corrupt?
  1. A program could have been uninstalled and along with uninstalling the program, a DLL file that other programs access could have been uninstalled too.
  2. A failed installation of a new program could have corrupted existing DLLs.
  3. A new program could have been installed, overwriting existing DLLs with newer, older or incompatible DLL files.
  4. A computer user or a program on the PC could have deleted a DLL or associated file.
  5. The hard disk drive could be failing and corrupting data, including DLL files.

To troubleshoot a DLL error:
  1. Search for a solution online. Enter the DLL file you are having trouble with into a major search engine to see if any particular solutions directly related to your problem already exist. When you receive a DLL error, the error message generally lists the actual DLL file name. For example: "Internet Explorer encountered an error in KERNEL32.DLL at..." let's you know you are having trouble with the DLL called kernel32.dll. By searching the exact phrase, you may find specific solution.
  2. If the DLL errors are not letting you into Windows, reboot your PC into Safe mode and follow the steps below. If you can function in Windows, follow the steps below.
  3. For Windows XP users, use the built in tool to restore your system to an earlier date. Go to the Start button, choose All Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore. Choose "Restore my system to an earlier date" and click the Next button. Choose a date in the past when your PC was running properly and follow the prompts.
  4. Windows XP and Windows 2000 users can scan and repair files by clicking the Start button, choosing Run, and typing: sfc /scannow and pressing enter.
  5. If you are having trouble with a DLL file related to a specific program, try reinstalling the program. Once the program is reinstalled, check the manufacturer's website for any updates or patches.
  6. If you recently un-installed a program, chances are the program removed a required DLL. Reinstalling the program will reinstall the DLL. Once you reinstall the program, you may un-install it once again. This time choose "No" or "No to all" when prompted to delete any system files or files that might be used by other programs.
  7. If you recently installed a new program on your PC and began receiving DLL errors after the installation, try checking the manufacturer's website for updates. If no updates are available, un-install the program and see if your problems are solved. If so, you will want to contact the program's technical support for further assistance in getting the program to function properly on your PC.
  8. Because viruses and spyware can also cause DLL errors, run a full virus and spyware scan on your system.
  9. Try searching the internet to find a source of downloadable replacement DLL files. Simply type in "download .DLL files" into a major search engine and you'll have a vast resource of potential websites that make versions of many popular DLL files available for download.
If none of these measures solved your DLL errors, it could indicate an imminent hardware failure or registry error. Try downloading and scanning your PC with RegCure.
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