How to fix any DLL errors in Windows 10

Andrew Wafer
by Andrew Wafer
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  • DLLs, also known as Dynamic-link libraries are an integral part of Windows' functionality.
  • To fix any DLL-related error, simply follow the solutions in this in-depth guide.
  • We've covered many great topics on our website, and you can even learn more about DLLs.
  • For more great troubleshooting guides, visit our website's Fix section.
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The .dll system errors are quite frustrating as you can get the same in unfortunate moments and for unknown reasons.

But most importantly, some DLL problems might even cause Windows 10crash issues and other malfunctions that can mess up your Windows system.

If you are currently experiencing Windows 10 DLL errors and want to learn how to safely and easily troubleshoot your problems, don’t hesitate and check the guidelines from below, where I have detailed the most common solutions that can be applied when dealing with a .dll error alert.

The tips from below are mainly compatible with Windows 10 systems, though you can also apply the same for Windows 7 or Windows Vista platforms.

Mostly, the DLL issues are appearing when installing new programs, software, or apps or when trying to run a new game.

Usually, you are only dealing with incompatibility problems which can be addressed with a simple update, but in some situations, you might even dealing with hardware errors or with registry issues.

Anyway, try the steps from below in order to troubleshoot your Windows 10 system and also check our previous tutorial on how to fix the x.live.dll protocol.

How do I fix DLL errors in Windows 10?

1. Use dedicated DLL repair and recovery tools

The fastest way to solve any PC-related issue is to use dedicated software that will get the job done for you, and one excellent choice would be to use Restore.

Not only is it faster that way, but you always know that you’ll be retrieving or repairing the right DLL since it is powered by a library of all of Windows 10’s DLLs that are also constantly updated.

This, in turn, translates into fewer headaches and more time that can be spent doing other things.

Restore is easy to use, both because of the lightweight feel of it and also thanks to the intuitive UI, meaning anyone that can read the instructions will be perfectly capable of using it to its full extent.

2. Manually download the DLLs from dedicated websites

There are plenty of websites out there that act as DLL libraries, and they are usually updated quite frequently. Users only need to visit these websites, download the DLL, and then manually install them.

While this solution may seem simple enough, the main problem with this solution is that you can never be truly sure if you downloaded the right DLLs.

Additionally, you can never be truly trusted with just any website, since you might end up installing malicious software on your PC instead of a DLL.

Lastly, the installation of a DLL isn’t all that simple, so if you aren’t very familiar with the Registry Editor, you might as well call it quits.

3. Uninstall any troublesome software

  1. Press Start
  2. Type in control panel to enter the Control Panel
  3. Select Uninstall a program
  4. Browse the list of all installed programs and look for the latest ones installed
  5. Right-click the program and select Uninstall
  6. After the uninstall is complete, restart your PC

If the DLL errors started after a major software install, then most likely that is what caused the problems in the first place.

That being said, uninstalling the program and performing a system restart might fix the issue.

4. Perform a system roll-back

  1. Press Start
  2. Type in reset and select Reset this PC
  3. When prompted, choose a restore point to go back to

If the previous solution didn’t work, then performing a system rollback should also do it.

This basically brings your Windows 10 OS to a  previous point in time since before you had your DLL errors. However, the catch here is that you need to have at least one restore point saved.

5. Reset your PC

  1. Press Start
  2. Type in reset and select Reset this PC
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to completely reset your PC to a brand-new state.

While this solution mays seem extreme, it is still the solution with the highest rate of success without involving any third-party tools.

By following these solutions, you should no longer be experiencing any more DLL-related issues.

Let us know if there are any other solutions that you usually employ when dealing with DLL problems. You can do this by leaving us a message in the comments section below.

FAQ: Learn more about  DLLs

  • What does DLL stand for?

DLL stands for Dynamic-Link Library, and they are an integral part of Windows’ functionality.

  • How can I fix DLL errors?

The fastest way to fist DLL errors is to use dedicated DLL repair tools.

  • Why are DLLs missing from my PC?

Missing DLLs can be caused by improper program installation or the side-effects of malware. Here’s how you can fix missing DLLs from your PC.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in May 2014 and was revamped and updated in November 2020 for freshness, accuracy, and comprehensiveness.