Among various computer errors that frustrate computer users, DLL errors are some of the most common. This is not surprising because of the sheer number of DLL files on a computer. However, unlike other computer errors, DLL errors are easy to resolve. All that is required is some knowledge of these files and a bit of patience.

Patience, we can’t impart, but knowledge we can and that is exactly what the objective of this article is. We will share simple steps that will help you troubleshoot common DLL errors on your own.

To begin with, let’s look at common causes of DLL errors:

• Missing DLL
• Corrupt DLL file
• Registry Issues
• Incorrect installation of a program
• Outdated device drivers

Perform the following steps in the sequence they appear, to resolve common DLL errors such as ntdll.dll error, mfc80.dll error or connapi.dll errors.

Download the DLL file from an online DLL Directory

In case the DLL file is missing, you may procure a new copy of the DLL file by downloading the DLL from a free reliable online DLL Directory. Always check the authenticity of the source from where you are downloading the DLL file or for that matter, any other file or software. Various sites are infamous for pushing harmful programs like spyware by attaching them to the files and software they list as free downloads.

Run a malware scan

Malware infection is often found to be the root cause of common DLL errors, such as ntdll.dll or mfc80.dll errors. To repair DLL errors that are the result of malware infection, weed out the malware from your computer and sanitize the infected DLL file. To achieve this, perform a malware scan on your entire computer using advanced security gear, such as Antivirus Plus and XoftSpySE.

Also, keep your protective tools up-to-date with the latest malware definitions and security updates. Make sure that you run regular malware scans to prevent any future malware infection.

Clean your registry

The Windows registry stores information related to your DLLs, which is accessed whenever a program or process needs to load any DLL. In case these entries become corrupt or invalid, you may receive recurring DLL errors, such as “connapi.dll not found” or “file ntdll.dll is missing” errors.

To fix such errors, clean your registry of invalid and corrupt information. You may seek the help of a reliable registry cleaning utility to clean your registry.

Reinstall the program that is generating the DLL error

Oftentimes, you may notice that you receive a DLL error only when you run a particular program and not with other programs or applications. If this is the case, to fix the DLL error, uninstall the program that is generating the DLL error and reinstall it. When you uninstall a program, ensure all its associated files and registry entries are also removed. This is important, as leftover processes may interfere with other running processes and cause errors. To completely uninstall programs you may use an efficient third-party uninstaller tool.

Update your device drivers

Outdated driver files may also cause DLL errors on your computer. To fix DLL errors that are occurring due to the use of outdated drivers, install the latest device drivers. You may automate the driver update process by opting for a reliable third-party driver scanner tool.