What are DLL Files?

Posted: March 19th, 2011

DLL stands for Dynamic Link Library Files. They’re called “library” files because they contain functions that many other files can “borrow” whenever they’re needed. Programmers long ago realized this was a more efficient way to design systems, instead of putting these functions into every program that might need them.

For an example, a DLL file might contain functions that help with fonts or graphics. Since a lot of different programs deal with typing and graphics, many different programs might need these functions. DLL files can be used by more than one program at the same time.

Computers usually have thousands of these files, and there can be problems with compatibility.
This sometimes happens because manufacturers have adjusted and tweaked them over the years, leaving these files as a possible source of incompatibility and confusion.

DLL errors sometimes occur after uninstalling an old program or installing a new one. This can corrupt or fragment an old DLL, or bring in an incompatible new version.  This is a source of much confusion and frustration, but it doesn’t have to be. Thankfully, there are applications available which can scan for these errors. They can also identify and fix most errors if they’re present, allowing your computer to run faster and more efficiently.

Uninstalling and installing programs is just one possible source of DLL confusion. In my next post, I’ll talk about the five most common DLL errors people encounter, and how to fix them when they occur.

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