One way to identify a computer error is to look carefully at the error message that pops-up on your screen. In most application-related errors, such as DLL errors, the error message will have a file name with its extension to give you a clue about what may have gone wrong.

Here are a few examples that will help you identify a DLL error:

• “faultrep.dll not found”
• “The file msvcr80.dll is missing”
• “Not able to start the application. Msvbvm60.dll is missing. Reinstall the application”

Each of the above error messages contain a file name and also give you a fair bit of idea on what is wrong; the DLL file in the above error messages are either missing or the application is not able to access them. Zeroing in on the cause of the DLL error help you take immediate corrective measures.

Shared below are useful tips that help you identify the cause of DLL errors, such as the ones above and repair them.

Run the Search utility

When you receive a DLL file is missing or not found error, first use the built-in Search utility to determine if the file is present on your computer or not. If search results are negative, try to identify the cause of the missing DLL file. Ask yourself the following questions to determine the cause of the missing DLL file and then restore the DLL to repair the error.

Was the DLL file deleted by mistake?

If the answer is yes, check the contents of your Recycle Bin. If you find the DLL file there, restore it. If you have already emptied the Recycle Bin, use a reliable third-party recover tool to get the missing DLL file back.

Did a recent unisntallation cause the DLL file to go missing?

Often, when correct unisntallation procedures are not followed, shared DLLs also get removed. Recall if you recently uninstalled any program or application. Are you getting the DLL error soon after you uninstalled a program? If the answer is yes, reinstall the removed program to restore the DLL and fix the error. Next time, when you uninstall any program, remember to either use the built-in Add or Remove Programs utility, or a reliable third-party uninstaller tool.

If the above reasons do not seem to be the cause of missing DLL, download the DLL file from a trustworthy free online DLL Directory.

The DLL is present but still getting DLL missing or not found errors

If this is the case, chances are the copy of the DLL file on your system is corrupt. Malware infection is the most common cause behind corrupt DLLs. Run a malware scan on your system using advanced antivirus and antispyware tools. If the malware scan does not report any infections, reinstall the application that is generating the DLL error.