File extension .DLL
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Link Library Format | Microsoft | System Files |
A DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file extension is used to store a library of functions or data that can be used by multiple applications at the same time commonly found on Microsoft Windows, macOS, and other operating systems. DLL files are basically shared libraries which can be used by more than one program at a time. They are different from static libraries like lib, a, and o files, as they can be filled with code that can be changed, updated, or replaced without having to recompile any programs that make use of the library.
Usage
DLL files greatly increase the efficiency and amount of code that can be shared by multiple programs. The majority of software packages created for Microsoft Windows, or any version of the Windows Operating System, will generally rely on one or more dynamic link library ( DLL) files for their operations. Drivers also may have an associated DLL file that handles interactions between them and the operating system. Common types of associated DLL files include:
Replication Process
Windows has a feature called ‘DLL Hell’ where an application is installed that replaces an existing DLL, either intentionally or unintentionally, with an older version in order to make itself run. This usually has disastrous effects on the other programs that depend on the newer version. The problem is solved with the introduction of side-by-side technology which allows multiple versions of a DLL to exist together in the same place so different applications get their own version of the library they need.
It is also possible for an application to fail to find the DLL it needs because its path isn’t set correctly in the registry. In this case, an error message will be displayed such as ‘Cannot find dllname.dll’. To fix this problem, the application must first be registered using the ‘regsvr32’ command.
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .DLL) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .DLL extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .DLL file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .DLL extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .DLL extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .DLL file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .DLL file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .DLL file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .DLL file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .DLL file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines
Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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