What is the Difference Between an Exe and DLL File?

There are many different types of files that you’ll run into on Windows. An executable or an exe file is one of the most common. You may also come across DLL files, especially if one goes missing and you get an error message.

But what’s the difference and how do you get a DLL to run?

What is an executable file (.exe)?

When a .exe file is clicked, the operating system loads the file into memory, and the instructions contained within the file are executed. This can result in the launch of a program or the execution of a specific task, such as installing software or updating system settings.

Typically, an executable has to be launched by the user and it will then automatically run or perform the desired task. It is a standalone file that contains all the necessary code to function.

What is a DLL (.dll) file?

A DLL file is a dynamic link library, which Windows uses behind the scenes to distribute code to multiple programs.

DLLs contain basic graphical elements, functions, and features, which many system programs and third-party software rely on. Rather than each program recreating the code itself, it can call on the DLL, which is loaded into memory automatically.

Most users will not usually come across DLL files directly as they are hidden away in the System32 folder or within software installation directories.

However, occasionally a DLL will go missing causing errors within programs. The user will then attempt to source the DLL and put it back in the correct folder.

This can cause confusion because a DLL cannot be launched or installed by clicking on it. In fact, Windows does not have a default program for opening or running DLLs.

Instead, it must be placed in the required directory, and then programs will find it themselves when needed.

How to I install exe and DLL files?

The majority of software installers are executables. All you have to do is double-click the file and it will automatically install and provide any necessary settings via an interface.

When the program is installed, another executable is used to open it.

On the other hand, DLLs cannot run by themselves. To install them, you must put them in the following path: C:\Windows\System32

Other possible folders include:

• C:\Windows\SysWow64
• C:\Program Files\Software Name

In some rare cases, a DLL must be registered before programs will recognize it. This usually only happens if the file is brand new and went missing during a new software installation. However, some malware or other issue can unregister a DLL.

Follow these steps to register a DLL:

1. Click on the Start menu type cmd in the Search box, and then press Enter to open Command Prompt.
2. Use the cd command to navigate to the directory where the DLL file is located. For example, if the DLL file is located in the C:\Windows\System32 folder, enter the command: cd C:\Windows\System32 and press Enter.
3. Enter the command: regsvr32 <filename>.dll and press Enter. Replace <filename> with the name of the DLL file you want to register. E.g., mydll.dll, should be: regsvr32 mydll.dll.

After registering the DLL file, you should see a message indicating that the registration was successful. Programs should now stop displaying the missing DLL error.

How do I replace and install DLLs automatically?

If a DLL file goes missing you can use Fortect to replace it, instead of trying to find the file online and installing it manually.

1. Download and Install Fortect on your computer.
2. Open the program and run a scan, which will detect missing shared DLLs and other Windows problems.
3. Click Start Repair to repair all Windows problems or click through to view DLL errors.
4. Wait for the process to complete and restart your PC if prompted.

The main difference between an Exe and a DLL is that an executable can be launched by clicking it, whereas a DLL is used in the background by Windows programs.

If you’re facing missing DLL errors, you can use a tool like Fortect instead of trying to manually register the file.