ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INSECURE: Tested Ways to Fix It
Fixing dynamic link library corruption issues
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If you’re trying to open an app or install one but get an ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INSECURE message, it’s most likely because the app has a DLL file that is corrupt or missing.
This corruption might happen over time, as you make changes on your PC, or if you accidentally delete the DLL.
Nevertheless, there are a few quick ways in which you can fix this error:
How to fix ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INSECURE
1. Re-register the DLL file
- Press the Windows key, type cmd and Run Command Prompt as administrator.
- In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter:
regsvr32 /u [path_to_dll_file] (Replace [path_to_dll_file] with the actual path to the DLL file. For example: regsvr32 C:\Windows\System32\example.dll) - Then type the following command and press Enter to register the DLL again: regsvr32 [path_to_dll_file]
- Wait for the process to complete and try running the application that triggered the error again.
Re-registering the DLL ensures the PC recognizes and is able to run the dynamic link library.
2. Replace the DLL
- If you’re still getting the error, go to the location of the DLL file. (It should be in the installation folder of the app/exe file that triggers the error).
- Check the DLL’s name, look it up online and download a new version from a reputable source.
- Back in the installation folder, right-click on the old DLL, and delete it.
- Copy the new DLL you just downloaded and paste it in the folder.
- Now, if the error was triggered by DLL file corruption, you should no longer get a DLL might be insecure message.
3. Use the System File Checker
- Press the Windows key, type CMD and select Run as administrator.
- Type sfc/scannow and press Enter.
- Wait for the process to complete. This will identify and fix system file corruption that can cause ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INSECURE.
- Restart your PC.
4. Scan for malware
- Locate the app that’s causing the error and right-click on it.
- If you use the built-in antivirus, select Scan with Microsoft Defender/Windows Security. If you have a third-party antivirus, select it.
- Wait for the process to complete. If the scan identified any issues, make sure to remove them. Consider uninstalling the app and getting an alternative from a reputable source.
5. Reinstall the app associated with the DLL
- Open Windows Settings.
- Select Apps> Installed apps.
- Locate the app that leads to the error, click on the 3 dots next to it, and select Uninstall.
- Once it’s removed, go back to its official website and reinstall it.
- This will ensure that the app, along with all DLL files it needs to run, so that all files have secure and up-to-date versions.
You can also use a third-party DLL repair tool to scan and address issues associated with these files.
Just like ERROR_ILLEGAL_FLOAT_CONTEXT, CANT_TERMINATE_SELF, and NO_GUID_TRANSLATION, ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INSECURE is a common Windows error that can easily be fixed.
Many apps and processes require a dynamic link library file (DLL) to run properly. Over time, for various reasons, they can get corrupt. Following the steps above should however get rid of the error. We also have a new guide on ERROR_DLL_MIGHT_BE_INCOMPATIBLE, so don’t miss it for more information.
Let us know if you need more help by leaving a comment below.
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