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How to Fix DLL File Missing Error

✅ Quick Answer

DLL file missing error occurs when Windows or an app cannot find a required .dll file. The fastest fix is to reinstall the affected program, run the System File Checker (SFC), and update Windows. If the issue persists, download the correct DLL from a trusted source or restore it using System Restore.

❓ Why DLL Files Go Missing?

DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files are essential parts of Windows and applications. They contain code and resources that multiple programs use. If a DLL file is missing, Windows will show errors like:

The most common reasons for missing DLL files are corrupted installations, accidental deletion, malware infection, outdated drivers, or corrupted system files. In most cases, the problem is fixable without reinstalling Windows.

🔧 Fix 1: Reinstall the Program

The DLL file may belong to a specific app. Reinstalling the app usually restores the missing DLL.

  1. Open Settings → Apps → Apps & features.
  2. Find the program that shows the error.
  3. Click Uninstall.
  4. Restart your PC.
  5. Download and install the latest version from the official website.

Screenshot: Uninstalling a program from Settings.

🔧 Fix 2: Run System File Checker (SFC)

SFC scans Windows system files and repairs corrupted or missing DLLs automatically.

  1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type the command below and press Enter:
sfc /scannow

Wait for the scan to complete. If SFC finds issues, it will fix them automatically.

🔧 Fix 3: Run DISM (If SFC Fails)

DISM repairs the Windows image and helps SFC work correctly if system files are damaged.

  1. Open Windows Terminal (Admin).
  2. Type these commands one by one:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After DISM completes, run sfc /scannow again.

🔧 Fix 4: Update Windows & Drivers

Sometimes DLL errors happen due to outdated Windows updates or old drivers. Updating Windows fixes many DLL issues automatically.

  1. Go to Settings → Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. Install updates and restart your PC.
  4. Update drivers from Device Manager if needed.

🔧 Fix 5: Restore Missing DLL Using System Restore

If the DLL error started recently, restoring Windows to a previous working point can solve it.

  1. Search Create a restore point in Windows Search.
  2. Click System Restore.
  3. Choose a restore point before the error appeared.
  4. Follow on-screen instructions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I download DLL files from random websites?

No. Downloading DLLs from random sites is risky and may contain malware. Always reinstall the program or use official sources. Use System File Checker to restore DLL safely.

Why does DLL keep going missing after fixing it?

This happens if the app is corrupted, or Windows system files are damaged. Use SFC/DISM and reinstall the app.

Do I need to reinstall Windows for DLL errors?

Usually no. Most DLL errors are fixable with SFC, DISM, or reinstalling the affected program.

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Last updated: January 2026 • Techfix&Guides