Frequently Asked .DLL Questions
.DLL files often come with a lot of questions, so we've answered the most common questions in this FAQ section. For help resolving .DLL errors, please visit 'How to Fix .DLL Errors'.
What are .dll files?
.DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files are components of the Windows operating system. These DLL files enhance the efficiency of software applications and the operating system by providing shared access to a common set of functions. Instead of every application having its own copy of every function, common functions are kept in these DLL files so they can be shared among many applications. If a DLL file becomes corrupted or goes missing, it can cause errors or issues with any program that relies on it.
Can 32-bit DLL files be installed on a 64-bit system?
Yes, you can install 32-bit DLL files on a 64-bit system. In a 64-bit Windows, 32-bit DLLs go in the 'SysWOW64' folder, while 64-bit DLLs go in the 'System32' folder. Always make sure to put the DLLs in the right folder.
Why am I getting a 'missing .dll' error?
This usually happens when a program tries to access a .dll file that's been deleted, corrupted, or isn't installed on the computer. While many .dll errors pertain to missing files, others can arise from version conflicts, file corruption, or incompatible software.
Is it safe to download .dll files from the internet?
When downloading from the internet, it's important to use trusted websites like DLLme.com. After downloading, always scan the file for potential threats. Taking these steps helps safeguard your system against malware and viruses.
Can I delete .dll files to save space?
It's not recommended. Deleting essential .dll files can cause software or the entire operating system to malfunction.
Why are there multiple versions of the same .dll file on my system?
Different programs might rely on different versions of the same .dll. This is why it's common to have multiple versions stored in different locations.
What's the difference between .dll and .exe files?
While both are executable, .exe files run as standalone applications, whereas .dll files provide functions and procedures for other programs to use.
What should I do if I have replaced a .dll file and now the program doesn't work?
It's best to restore the original .dll file, as the replacement might not be compatible with the program or could be corrupted.
How can I register a .dll file?
I found filename.DL_ on my PC. What is this?
This is a compressed backup of the .dll file. Use software such as
7zip to extract the file and continue with installation.
What is the "entry point not found" error?
This error occurs when a program calls upon a specific function in a .dll file, but can't find it. This could be due to the wrong version of the .dll being present.
Why do I get a .dll error on startup?
If a program set to run on startup requires a specific .dll and can't locate it, you'll receive an error. It can also be related to remnants of software that's been incompletely uninstalled.
Is there a way to fix multiple .dll errors at once?
Using system-wide solutions like the
System File Checker tool (sfc /scannow command) can help resolve multiple system-related .dll issues.
How do .dll errors relate to the Windows Registry?
The Windows Registry contains paths and references to .dll files. If these become corrupt or inaccurate, it might result in .dll errors.
Why did a .dll error pop up after a software update?
Sometimes, software updates might replace existing .dll files with newer versions, which can lead to compatibility issues with other programs that depend on the old versions.
Is there a difference between .dll and .ocx files?
Both are types of Dynamic Link Libraries, but .ocx files typically contain controls used by software applications.
Can I delete duplicate .dll files?
While it might seem redundant to have multiple copies of the same .dll, different applications may rely on them being in specific locations. It's advisable to not delete them unless you're sure it won't impact any software.
Why do 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows have different .dll files?
The two
architectures handle data differently and need distinct .dll files to function correctly. For compatibility reasons, 64-bit versions of Windows support both 32-bit and 64-bit .dll files.
Why do games often have .dll errors?
Games rely on many .dll files, especially for graphics and sound. If the game's .dll doesn't match the version the system expects, or if a required .dll is missing, errors can occur.
Why are .dll files in the installation folder and not in /System32/?
To avoid potential version conflicts, some software developers include necessary .dll files within the application's installation directory, ensuring the program always accesses the correct version.
