FIX: Wdsutil.dll is missing in Windows 10, 7

Madalina Dinita
by Madalina Dinita
Former Managing Editor
Affiliate Disclosure
Share this article:
fix missing wdsutil.dll
To fix various PC problems, we recommend Restoro PC Repair Tool: This software will repair common computer errors, protect you from file loss, malware, hardware failure and optimize your PC for maximum performance. Fix PC issues and remove viruses now in 3 easy steps:
  1. Download Restoro PC Repair Tool that comes with Patented Technologies (patent available here).
  2. Click Start Scan to find Windows issues that could be causing PC problems.
  3. Click Repair All to fix issues affecting your computer's security and performance
  • Restoro has been downloaded by 0 readers this month.

Solution 6 – Perform a system restore

If wdsutil.dll is missing error started appearing recently, you might be able to fix it by performing a System Restore. This is an extremely useful feature since it allows you to easily fix many problems. To perform a System Restore, do the following:

  1. Press Windows Key + S and enter system restore. Now choose Create a restore point option from the menu.
    Wdsutil dll missing error code 0xc1
  2. When System Properties window opens, select System Restore.
    Wdsutil.dll failed to load
  3. System Restore window will now appear. Click Next.
    The program can’t start because wdsutil dll is missing from your computer
  4. If available, check Show more restore points option. Now select the desired restore point and click Next.
    The program can’t start because wdsutil dll is missing from your computer
  5. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the restoration process.

Solution 7 – Perform an in-place upgrade

If other solutions didn’t fix the wdsutil.dll is missing message, you might be able to fix the problem by performing an in-place upgrade. If you’re not familiar, an in-place upgrade will reinstall Windows and upgrade it to the latest version while keeping all your files intact.

The in-place upgrade process is fairly simple, and you can perform it by doing the following:

  1. Download and run Media Creation Tool.
  2. When Media Creation Tool starts, select Upgrade this PC now.
  3. Wait while the setup prepares the necessary files.
  4. Select Download and install updates (recommended) and click Next.
  5. Wait while the updates are downloaded.
  6. Follow the instructions on the screen until you reach Ready to install screen. Click Change what to keep.
  7. Select Keep personal files and apps option and click Next.

Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the setup. Once your system is reinstalled, the issue should be completely resolved.

Solution 8 – Redownload the ISO image

Sometimes this problem can occur while trying to install Windows 10. If this happens, it’s possible that your ISO image is damaged. To fix this problem, you’ll need to download the ISO image again and try to install Windows 10 once again.

Solution 9 – Run the setup from the ISO file

Several users reported wdsutil.dll is missing error while trying to create a bootable flash drive. However, you can circumvent this problem by downloading and mounting the ISO image. After doing that, just run the setup.exe file from the mounted image and follow the instructions on the screen.

Missing wdsutil.dll file can cause many issues on your PC and prevent applications from running. Although this can be a big problem, we hope that you managed to fix it using one of our solutions.

FAQ: Learn  more about DLL errors

  • What does the wdsutil.dll do?

The wdsutil.dll is a dynamic link library file that allows multiple programs to use the same functionality. Missing DLLs can prevent users from running the programs installed on their machines.

  • What causes DLL errors?

DLL errors are often caused by accidentally deleted DLL files, corrupted Registry issues, faulty hardware or malware.

  • How do I fix a DLL error?

Here are 5 of the best solutions you can use to fix DLL errors quickly and safely: restart your computer, install the latest OS updates, run SFC, clean your Registry and run System Restore. Alternatively, you can use a dedicated tool to restore deleted or missing DLL files.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in July 2018 and has been since completely revamped and updated for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in August 2016 and was revamped and updated in November 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for letting us know! You can also help us by leaving a review on MyWOT or Trustpillot.
Get the most from your tech with our daily tips
Tell us why!