How to Resolve Missing DLL Files in Windows 10/8/7 [2024 Comprehensive Guide]

DLL, short for Dynamic Link Library, is a crucial type of file that comprises a collection of instructions utilized for executing virtually every program in Windows 10, Windows 8, and Windows 7. If the DLL files are absent from the Windows operating system, you might encounter difficulties running the required programs or applications.

One of the most common missing DLL file errors on Windows 10 is the MSCVP110.dll issue, accompanied by an error message stating, "The program can't start because MSVCP110.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem."

In this article, we'll guide you through how to fix missing DLL files in Windows 10 using several effective methods. First, let's understand the reasons behind missing DLL files on Windows 10/8/7.

Causes of Missing DLL Files in Windows 10

Before diving straight into the solution, it's crucial to have a proper understanding of the reason behind the missing .dll file error.

• Virus or malware attack
• Careless deletion of DLL files
• Corrupted Windows operating system
• DLL files are overwritten
• DLL files are damaged
• Different functions between Windows 10 and Windows 8/7

There are multiple methods to address missing DLL files on your Windows computer. When faced with a缺失的.dll文件 issue, initially try restarting your computer to check if the problem resolves itself. If it doesn't, proceed with the following methods in sequence.

1. Reinstall the Program

As the error message indicates, attempt to reinstall the program to resolve the missing .dll issue. If this method is unsuccessful, proceed to the next solution.

2. Run the System File Checker Scanner

Since a corrupted Windows operating system can lead to the missing .dll error, you can repair the damaged system file to address the issue.

Run the built-in Windows System File Checker to assist in detecting and replacing any lost or corrupted files within your operating system. This utility can also be utilized to identify crucial missing DLL files on Windows 10.

Related reading: SFC is not working on Windows 10

Step 1. Right-click the "Start" button and choose "Command Prompt (Admin)".

Step 2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter to run a full system scan.

Wait for the process to finish. If the SFC scanner finds the missing DLL file, the issue is resolved. If you see the message "Windows Resource Protection did not find any integrity violations," it indicates that there are no issues with the Windows system files. You'll need to proceed to the next solution.

3. Run the DISM Tool

If the SFC scanner is not helpful, resolve the missing DLL file issue using the DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management) tool.

Step 1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog, then type: cmd to open the "Command Prompt."

Step 2. Enter the following command and press "Enter".

Dism /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

Step 3. Wait for the process to finish, and then restart your computer.

4. Recover Deleted DLL Files with a File Recovery Tool

Occasionally, you might have accidentally deleted DLL files, which leads to the missing .dll file error. Check your Recycle Bin and restore the deleted files. If the DLL file is not found in the Recycle Bin or you have already emptied it, you can utilize tools like Data Recovery Wizard to recover deleted files.

Data Recovery Wizard Pro enables you to recover any lost files from HDD, SSD, USB flash drive, SD card, external hard drive, and more.

Moreover, it can repair corrupted files after recovery. Download this file recovery software for free to retrieve your missing DLL files.

Step 1. Select the exact file location and then click the "Scan" button to proceed.

Step 2. Once the process is completed, select the "Deleted Files" and "Other Lost Files" folders from the left panel. You can then utilize the "Filter" feature or click on the "Search files or folders" button to locate the deleted files.

Step 3. Click the "Recover" button and save the retrieved files to a different location than the original one理想情况下.

5. Download the DLL File Manually

If the above methods fail to resolve the missing DLL issue, you can download the missing DLL files from the internet.

However, numerous websites provide free DLL files online, but only a few are reliable. Beware of malicious pages that might harbor malware capable of compromising your entire system. Therefore, it's essential to download DLL files via the official Microsoft links provided.

If you're uncomfortable downloading missing DLL files online, you can try copying them from another functioning computer.

6. Upgrade Windows

某些 Windows 更新可能会更改或替换 .dll 文件，导致其他程序需要使用它们时无法提供。您可以将 Windows 10 更新到最新版本，并检查是否仍然存在缺失 DLL 文件的错误。

Step 1. Press Windows key + I to open Windows Settings.

Step 2. Click on "Update & Security" and then choose "Check for updates" under Windows Update.

Step 3. If there is a new Windows update available, click "Install Now" and follow the on-screen instructions to install the latest update.

More Information About Missing DLL Files in Windows 10

Here's some additional information about DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files in Windows 10: A DLL file is a type of shared library used by Windows and various applications to store functions and resources that can be utilized by multiple programs simultaneously. This helps in efficient memory management and reduces the overall size of the applications since they don't need to include the code for these common functions. In Windows 10, DLLs are located in different system directories, such as C:\Windows\System32, and are loaded into memory when needed by executing programs. The operating system manages the loading and unloading of DLLs, ensuring that their contents are available to the requesting software. Some key aspects of DLL files in Windows 10 include: 1. Dependency Walker: A tool called Dependency Walker (depends.exe) can be used to analyze and troubleshoot issues related to DLL dependencies. It shows which DLLs a specific program needs to run. 2.注册表 (Registry): The Windows Registry keeps track of which DLLs are associated with which applications, making sure they're loaded correctly at runtime. 3. Dynamic linking: At runtime, an application can dynamically link to a DLL, allowing for more flexibility in updating and maintaining the shared code. 4. Side-by-side Assemblies: Windows 10 supports side-by-side assemblies, which means different versions of the same DLL can coexist, ensuring compatibility between older and newer applications. 5. System File Checker (SFC): The System File Checker tool can be used to scan and repair damaged or missing DLL files, ensuring the integrity of the operating system. 6. Security: Ensuring the security of DLL files is crucial, as malicious software can exploit vulnerabilities in them to gain control over the system. Keeping your system updated and using antivirus software can help mitigate such risks. Understanding and managing DLL files is essential for troubleshooting software issues and optimizing performance in Windows 10.

Where are the DLL files located in Windows 10?

DLLs are scattered throughout your PC, and they're not confined to a single location. You can find them in C:\Windows\System32, within your program files folder, or in various other directories.

You can search for a .dll file on your computer.

• Click the search button on your computer.
• Enter the filename without the .dll extension into the search bar.
• Check if the DLL file can be located.

How do I install missing DLL files?

Here's how you can locate and install missing .dll files on Windows 10: 1. **Search for the .dll file:** - Start by identifying the specific .dll file that is missing. You can usually find this information in the error message you received. - Use search engines like Google to search for the exact name of the .dll file. 2. **Download from official sources:** - Visit the official website of the software or game that requires the .dll file. Sometimes, they provide the necessary files for download. - Alternatively, go to trusted library websites such as DLL-Files.com, where you can search for the missing .dll and download it. 3. **Verify file authenticity:** - Before downloading, ensure the source is reputable to avoid downloading malware. - Check user reviews and ratings, and only proceed with trusted sites. 4. **Extract the downloaded file (if necessary):** - If the downloaded file is in a ZIP or RAR format, extract it using software like WinRAR or 7-Zip. 5. **Place the .dll file in the correct folder:** - Typically, you should put the .dll file in the program's installation directory. For system-level .dll files, place them in the System32 folder (C:\Windows\System32). - If unsure, try copying it to the directory mentioned in the error message. 6. **Register the .dll file (optional):** - For some .dll files, you need to register them with Windows. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type: ``` regsvr32 filename.dll ``` - Replace "filename.dll" with the actual name of the .dll file. 7. **Re-run the program:** - After completing the steps above, restart the software or game to see if the issue has been resolved. 8. **System File Checker (SFC) scan:** - If the problem persists, run a System File Checker scan to fix any corrupted system files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type: ``` sfc /scannow ``` - This process may take some time, and it will repair any damaged system files if found. 9. **Update or reinstall the software:** - If the .dll issue still isn't resolved, consider updating the software to its latest version or, as a last resort, reinstalling it. Remember that tampering with system files can be risky, so always exercise caution and make sure you're downloading from reliable sources.

• Locate and download the missing .dll file from a reputable website.
• Save the .dll file to: "C:\Windows\System32">
• Press Windows key + R to open the Run utility. Type regsvr32 name_of_dll.dll and press Enter. This will install the .dll file onto your Windows system.

What happens if DLL files are missing?

If a program requires a DLL file that is missing from your computer, you won't be able to run the program and will encounter an error message.

Closing Remarks

In this post, we've explained what DLL stands for, the reasons behind missing DLL files, and the top 6 effective solutions to fix DLL file errors. Now, it's your turn to attempt these methods to resolve the issue.

If the .dll files are missing due to accidental deletion, you can utilize data recovery software to effortlessly restore them. Should you encounter any issues in resolving the problem, feel free to reach out to our technical support team for assistance. You can email us at support@tools.com.