Is It Safe to Delete DLL Files? [Missing DLL]
Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs) are files that contain code and data that can be used by multiple programs at the same time. They are loaded into memory when needed by an executable program, and they allow programs to share resources and perform common functions without having to duplicate code.
Windows includes many important DLL files located within the operating system in the System32 folder and some other locations.
Why shouldn’t you usually delete DLL files?
There is usually no reason to delete DLLs, especially from folders reserved for the operating system. Because they are used by multiple programs, there’s no telling when a program might require access now or in the future.
Furthermore, many of the core libraries that come with Windows are required for the operating system to run properly. They are used in basic functions such as clickable buttons and how messages are displayed.
Deleting DLL files can cause the software to crash or even the entire system to restart.
If that happens you will need to repair Windows before it will boot as normal.
What happens if you delete a DLL file?
There are several possible consequences for deleting a DLL file.
In some cases, you may not have permission to delete DLLs from the System32 folder and will be dealt with an error message. This is to protect Windows.
If a DLL is currently being used by a program, trying to delete it will also result in a message saying: This action can’t be completed because the file is open.
However, if you a DLL does go missing, it can cause:
- Features within programs to stop working.
- Programs to crash unexpectedly.
- Programs to crash with an error message stating the DLL is missing.
- Windows to freeze or hang.
- Windows to restart or get stuck in a restart loop.
None of these problems will be solved until you return the DLL file to the correct folder.
When is it safe to delete DLLs?
The only time it is truly safe to delete DLLs is when they come bundled with third-party software and are not used by another program. This might be the case if you see DLL files in the program’s installation folder.
When you uninstall the software, this folder may be left behind with a few settings files and DLLs. This is in case you decide to reinstall the software later and wish to keep your settings.
If the software was written correctly, any shared DLL files will have been copied to other Windows folders. Therefore, you can safely delete the installation folder along with any DLLs once you have uninstalled the program.
If any errors do occur, you can reinstall the software and the DLL should return to the fresh installation folder.
When DLLs are corrupted by malware or other system problems, you may need to delete them before replacing them with fresh copies.
How do I replace deleted DLL files?
When a DLL is deleted, reinstalling the software that gives an error message might replace it. However, it’s not uncommon to have to download the DLL file yourself online. You must then put the DLL back in the correct folder.
Sometimes it’s difficult to find the right DLL and version on the web, so using a DLL fixer can help.
Fortect detects missing and corrupt DLLs as part of its comprehensive Windows repair process. It then pulls the files from its repository of clean files and automatically replaces them.
- Download and Install Fortect on your PC.
- Run the system scan upon launch.
- Find the DLL errors or click Start Repair (after product activation) to fix all Windows problems.
- Wait for the process to complete and restart your computer.
Why are DLL files deleted?
Here are some common reasons why DLL files may go missing on Windows:
- Flawed Uninstallation – Sometimes, uninstalling a poorly coded program can also remove some of its shared DLL files, which may cause problems for other programs that rely on them.
- Corrupted System Files – Corrupted system files can also result in missing DLL files. This can happen due to hardware failure, software bugs, or unexpected shutdowns.
- Malware Infections – Malware can target DLL files and delete or replace them with malicious files. This can cause serious issues, such as system crashes or data theft.
Fortect helps repair malware damage and remove potentially dangerous programs, which can protect your DLLs.
In conclusion, deleting DLL files from Windows can cause serious problems with the functionality and stability of your computer. These files are crucial components of many programs and removing them can lead to errors and crashes.
It is important to only remove DLL files using proper uninstallation methods. You should also be cautious when dealing with all system files to avoid damaging your operating system.
If you run into missing DLL errors, tools like Fortect can replace them automatically, instead of finding them online yourself.
