What is DLL errors - How to fix this errors?

One of the commonest PC problems users encounter are DLL errors which often indicate some irresolvable issue with an associated program. An acronym for Dynamic Link Library, a DLL file essentially holds instructions that multiple programs may access for depending on the functionality that the file defines. For instance, a program may use a specific code from a DLL file to access the requisite memory, locate the default printer or even search a file from a specific directory.

Identifying DLL Errors
Every PC user has likely faced at least one baffling DLL error that seems obscure and unsolvable. The typical error message reads 'Missing or corrupt filename.dll', where 'filename' refers to the actual DLL file that is corrupt or otherwise inaccessible. To begin with, it is important to first identify if the file that throws the error has been accidentally deleted. In most cases restoring the missing file to the original location will solve the issue.

Resolving the Problem
One or more of the following options may help in troubleshooting the error. If Windows does not load properly or the error displays during start-up, boot the PC in Safe Mode before attempting to resolve the problem.

Approach 1 - When the DLL File is Missing

- File Recovery: In the event that the DLL file that triggers the error has been accidentally deleted and cannot be restored from the Recycle Bin, reinstating the file is probably the only way to clear the issue. If the deleted file is completely removed, a file recovery program is the only way out. To this end, there are several free file recovery software online, but this approach will be effective only if the fully-functional file is indeed missing, and not merely moved to a different location.

- File Reinstall: This is possibly the easiest way to resolve the problem. If you can identify the program that triggers the error, uninstall and then reinstall the program from the original software CD and then check if the error persists. This approach is likely to work only is a specific program can be identified as the source of the error.
- Use the System File Checker to identify and replace the missing DLL file.

Approach 2 - System Cleanup

- System Restore: This is a predefined process that restores the system to a 'previous good' configuration as stored in the Registry. System Restore is a good option particularly if the error is triggered owing to a recent change to the Registry.

- Reinstall Windows: In some cases a complete reinstallation of the operating system can be unavoidable since this creates a fresh hard drive minus any persistent problems. A repair reinstallation restores functional Windows DLL files within a recognizable directory structure.

Approach 3 - Hardware Checks

- In some cases a hardware issue may be triggering the error, and if the problem persists even after reinstalling Windows, testing the various components is the logical alternative.

- Update drivers corresponding to the specific hardware that is related to the error displayed. If, for instance, the error is triggered when attempting to print a document, try updating the printer driver and check if the error persists.

Troubleshooting a DLL error can be pretty complicated, and downloading files from unknown DLL download sites which purport to resolve the issue is not recommended. Regardless of the actual approach chosen to resolve a DLL error, a thorough Antivirus check must be performed prior to or after the troubleshoot. This helps quarantine any hostile programs or Trojans that could trigger further errors in the future.