Nowadays, anyone can fix a DLL error by downloading the required file from the internet. Not only it resolves their issue, but it also allows the application to work efficiently. Some people only want to fix the error without knowing what caused it. Thanks to the online services, they don’t have to worry about missing DLL files or any other errors. However, it is always interesting to learn more about the necessary software for our everyday use applications.
What is a DLL file?
DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file contains data shared by multiple applications for smooth functioning. It is a shared library concept implemented by Microsoft in the Windows operating system. DLL is similar to EXE, but due to the linking process, it has a different name. However, you cannot execute a DLL file directly. Tools such as rundll32.exe and rundll.exe will help you in its execution.
Moreover, DLL files allow a developer to use the shared data and upgrade the software without re-linking or re-compiling the programs. Several applications can operate through one DLL file. It eliminates the need for downloading DLL files individually.
How does DLL File work?
DLL files help a program to divide its various components into modules. A user can remove or add these modules while upgrading the software’s functionalities. It means that the program will use less memory as it loads everything one by one. DLL allows the individual parts of an application to upgrade, restore, or reinstall without affecting the whole program. It provides an extra benefit when more programs use a single DLL file so that every application can update using it.
Dynamic Link Library files use extensions, such as OCX, DRV, and CPL. Here, OCX is for the ActiveX Control files, DRV for Device drivers, and CPL for Control Panel files.
One DLL may get dependent on another by using its instructions. In these cases, the DLL functionalities can easily break as the first DLL depends on the second. It means that whenever the second one faces issues, it will affect the first one as well.
Moreover, if you download an application that uses a DLL file linked to other programs, it will overwrite the previous version. So, if you had the updated version, the older one will replace it. After this, the programs linked to the DLL will stop working on your system until you upgrade the file.
How to download a DLL file?
Installing a DLL file on your system is a simple process. Follow these steps:
- Search for websites that offer all kinds of DLL files. You can easily find these sites as there are hundreds available on the internet.
- Select the one you think can fulfill all your DLL needs.
- Look for the required file on their website and download it on your PC.
- Copy that file and paste it into your Windows system folder. If the file is for a game, you can paste it into the game’s folder. For the system folder, select the path: C:\Windows\System32.
- In some cases, you may have to restart the computer for proper functioning. After that, you can enjoy the benefits of your DLL file.
Endnotes
That is how DLL works on your computer. However, you may face DLL errors that will not allow you to run the programs associated with that DLL file. The most common one is the missing DLL file error, which might occur due to different reasons.
In such cases, downloading DLL files is an ideal option. You can follow the steps mentioned above to install any type of DLL file from the internet.
