DLL stands for dynamic link library. Everytime a program is opened on your computer, the program will loads certain processes into your system's RAM (random access memory). Some programs, in an effort to save RAM, group together like processes into one .dll file. Then, when the program needs to execute a particular process, it can dynamically link the process from this library or .dll into the system RAM.
Why do .dll files cause errors?
Many times, two or more programs can share the same .dll file. Each of these programs uses the file to execute similar processes. An example of this would be a printer driver - any program that uses that printer will need to call it's .dll driver in order to communicate. Sometimes when users install and uninstall programs in Windows, a .dll file can be accidentally erased. Other times, a file can be damaged by faulty program updates or re-installs. There are a number of ways that a dll file can lead to a Windows error.
How do I install the .dll file after I have downloaded it?
Once you have downloaded the .dll file you are looking for you still need to make sure Windows or the program causing the error can find it. Follow these steps:
* Please make sure to take all precautions before installing a .dll file. This includes scanning the file for viruses/malware and backing up you system and files. We are not responsible for errors. Please read our disclaimer before downloading or installing any file.
1. If you are encountering an error with Windows...
The .dll file you downloaded needs to be placed into the Windows System directory. On most machines this is one of the following locations:
C:\Windows\System (Windows 95/98/Me),
C:\WINNT\System32 (Windows NT/2000), or
C:\Windows\System32 (Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7).
If you are encountering an error with a particular program...
In most cases the .dll file needs to be added to the program's directory. This directory is where the program is installed (i.e. c:\program files\programxyz).
If the above step solves the problem, you do not need to complete step 2.
2. You may to register this file with Windows. Click on the Start Menu and then on 'Run'.
The Run Dialog Box will popup.
If you are replacing a Windows system file, type the following command in the box, changing the word file.dll with the name of the .dll file you are trying to install:
regsvr32 \windows\system\file.dll (Windows 95/98/ME),
regsvr32 \WINNT\system32\file.dll (Windows NT/2000), or
regsvr32 \windows\system32\file.dll (Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7).
Then Click "Ok"
If the file is registered correctly, you will receive a positive confirmation message.
If you are replacing a file for another program, change the directory where the program is located.
- example, 'regsvr32 \program files\programxyz\xyz.dll'