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What are DLL files and How to Fix DLL related Problems

DLL, or Dynamic Link Library Files are part of the Windows operating system and are indicated by the extension “.dll”. Put simply, these files collectively comprise a collection of small programs that are initiated individually by the executable program (.exe) that is running and requires them. Rather than running a large or general program, .dll files provide access to smaller, more specific programs as they are required by specific .exe programs. Said differently, .dll files are the same as .exe or executable programs, only they can not run independently, they have to be initiated and powered by the engine of the .exe program as an add-on to its primary function.

Download this free scanner to scan your Windows Registry for problems that may lead to system errors and DLL file problems.

The benefit of .dll files, according to Microsoft, is that they facilitate smaller .exe programs by out-sourcing information, or access to information that is not fundamental or exclusive to the .exe program. For example, an .exe program might need access to your computer’s printer but, rather than build this avenue into the .exe file, Microsoft has instead complied a “library” of links that allows multiple .exe programs access to the same information through the external .dll file. In this way the avenue is generally available to all .exe programs and thus vastly reduces the size of such programs that would all require the same capabilities. The .dll is essentially a shared file, used by any .exe program that needs it.

Another benefit of .dll files is that they keep .exe programs smaller and thus reduce the amount of RAM memory that the .exe program requires in order to run. The .dll file is only opened and loaded into RAM when it is needed, keeping the computer running faster and more easily. When your computer is running a program that might need access to particular information, the .dll file stores that information separately so the .exe program can call upon it when it wants to, without having to run it and have it take up space and power when it isn’t required.

The possible disadvantages of .dll files is that, since they are external to .exe programs, you might not always have or be able to access the .dll file that you need. .dll files might be missing, appear invalid, or not be properly cross referenced by your computer or .exe programs. If you encounter these problems, or have trouble running .exe files because they can’t find or open the .dll files, Microsoft offers a “Dependency Walker” tool that can be run to troubleshoot the dependency of .dll files.

Download this free registry scanner and find out just how clogged your Windows registry really is.