Recovering .DLL Files After Malware Strikes: A Guide

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .DLL file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

Recovering .DLL Files After Malware Strikes: A Guide
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .DLL file?

A DLL file is a compiled library that contains a set of procedures and/or drivers that are referenced and executed by a Windows program. It allows multiple programs to access shared functions through common libraries. DLL files are "dynamically linked" into a program at runtime, meaning they are only loaded when needed.

What Are Common Causes of ".DLL" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".DLL" files lost or failure, including:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".DLL" files while trying to clean up their system or remove unwanted files.
  2. Malware or virus infection: Malicious software can infect and corrupt ".DLL" files, leading to their loss or failure.
  3. Software installation or uninstallation: Incorrect installation or removal of software can result in the deletion or corruption of ".DLL" files.
  4. Hardware failure: Issues with hardware components, such as a failing hard drive or faulty RAM, can lead to the loss or corruption of ".DLL" files.
  5. System crashes or power outages: Sudden system crashes or power outages during the operation of programs can cause ".DLL" files to become lost or damaged.
  6. Software conflicts: Conflicts between different software programs or incompatible versions can result in the loss or failure of ".DLL" files.
  7. Registry errors: Problems within the Windows registry, such as invalid or missing entries, can lead to the loss or corruption of ".DLL" files.
  8. Software updates or patches: Sometimes, updates or patches to software can inadvertently cause ".DLL" files to be deleted or become incompatible.
  9. User error: Users may accidentally move or rename ".DLL" files, causing them to be lost or fail.

It is important to note that ".DLL" files are essential for the proper functioning of software, and their loss or failure can result in errors, crashes, or malfunctioning programs.

How to recover lost ".DLL" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".DLL" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".DLL" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".DLL" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".DLL" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".DLL" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".DLL" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo dynamic Link Library image file file?

Programs that open ".DLL" files

Windows
DLL-Files.com Client DLL-Files.com Client
Microsoft Windows Microsoft Windows
Microsoft Visual Studio 2019 Microsoft Visual Studio 2019
Microsoft Visual FoxPro Microsoft Visual FoxPro
Resource Hacker Resource Hacker

Additional Information

  • File type: Dynamic Link Library

  • File extension: .DLL

  • Developer: Microsoft

  • Category: System Files

  • Format: Binary

  • Mime-type: application/octet-stream

  • HEX: 4D 5A

  • ASCII: MZ

  • File types that use the extension .DLL:

    • Dynamic Link Library

    • DLL Dynamic Web Page

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  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 13:10 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .DLL files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What are common signs that indicate a DLL file needs repair?

    There are several common signs that indicate a DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file needs repair. These signs include:

    1. Error messages: The most obvious sign is the appearance of error messages related to DLL files. These messages may mention a specific DLL file by name or indicate a general problem with DLL files.
    2. Application crashes: If an application crashes frequently or unexpectedly, it may be due to a corrupted or missing DLL file that the application relies on.
    3. Slow performance: A DLL file issue can cause slow performance in certain applications or even the entire system. This can occur when the DLL file is not functioning properly or is missing.
    4. Blue screen of death (BSOD): In some cases, a DLL file problem can result in a BSOD, which is a critical system error that causes the computer to crash and display a blue screen. This can happen if a critical DLL file is missing or corrupted.
    5. Application or system freezes: When a DLL file is damaged or missing, it can lead to freezing or unresponsiveness of applications or the entire system.
    6. Unexpected behavior: DLL file issues can cause applications or the operating system to exhibit unexpected behavior, such as error pop-ups, missing features, or abnormal program behavior.
    7. Inability to launch applications: If an application fails to launch or gives an error message related to DLL files, it could indicate a problem with the DLL files it depends on.
    8. Missing DLL files: Sometimes, you may come across error messages indicating that a specific DLL file is missing. This suggests that the file has been deleted or moved, and it needs to be repaired or replaced.

    If you encounter any of these signs, it is advisable to troubleshoot and repair the DLL file issue to ensure the smooth functioning of your applications and system.

  • What are some effective methods or tools available for repairing DLL files?

    There are several effective methods and tools available for repairing DLL files. Some of them are:

    1. System File Checker (SFC): This built-in Windows tool scans and repairs corrupted system files, including DLL files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and run the command "sfc /scannow" to initiate the scan and repair process.
    2. DLL repair software: Various third-party tools like DLL-Files Fixer, DLL Suite, and DLL-files.com Client offer automated solutions for repairing DLL files. These tools scan for missing or corrupted DLL files and replace them with the correct versions.
    3. Windows Update: Keeping your Windows operating system up to date can help in resolving DLL errors. Microsoft regularly releases updates that include bug fixes, security patches, and DLL file updates.
    4. Reinstalling the software: If a specific program is showing DLL errors, try uninstalling and reinstalling it. This can replace any missing or corrupted DLL files associated with that program.
    5. System Restore: If the DLL errors started occurring recently, you can use System Restore to revert your computer to a previous state when the DLL files were working correctly.
    6. Manual replacement: If you know which DLL file is causing the issue, you can manually replace it with a fresh copy. Ensure you download the correct version of the DLL file from a trusted source and place it in the appropriate system folder.

    Remember to create a backup of important files and create a system restore point before attempting any repairs to DLL files.

  • Are there any potential risks or precautions to consider when attempting to repair DLL files?

    Yes, there are potential risks and precautions to consider when attempting to repair DLL files. Some of them include:

    1. Downloading from trusted sources: Ensure that you download DLL files from reputable sources. Downloading from untrusted websites can lead to the installation of malicious files that can harm your computer.
    2. Compatibility issues: DLL files are specific to certain software or operating systems. Installing an incompatible DLL file can cause system instability or crashes. Always ensure that you have the correct version and architecture (32-bit or 64-bit) of the DLL file.
    3. Back up files: Before making any changes to DLL files, it is recommended to create a backup of the original file. This allows you to revert back to the original state in case something goes wrong during the repair process.
    4. System restore points: Creating a system restore point before attempting any repairs can be beneficial. This allows you to roll back your system to a previous state if the repair process causes any issues.
    5. Dependency issues: DLL files often have dependencies on other files or libraries. If you repair or replace a DLL file without considering its dependencies, it can cause errors in the software that relies on it. Therefore, it is important to understand the dependencies and ensure they are properly addressed.
    6. Expertise and caution: Repairing DLL files requires technical knowledge. If you are not familiar with the process, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional or use specialized software designed for DLL repairs.

    Overall, be cautious when attempting to repair DLL files and take necessary precautions to minimize the risks involved.
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