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How to Delete DLL Files – Step by Step Guide
DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files are essential components of a Windows operating system that are used to provide functionality to various programs. However, sometimes these files can become corrupted or outdated, causing errors and system crashes. In such cases, it becomes necessary to delete or remove these DLL files from your computer. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to delete DLL files safely and effectively.
Steps to Delete DLL Files
Here are the steps to follow to delete DLL files from your computer:
Step 1: Identify the DLL files you want to delete. You can find them in the System32 or SysWOW64 folders located in the Windows directory.
Step 2: Open the Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by right-clicking on the Start menu and selecting “Command Prompt (Admin).”
Step 3: Type “regsvr32 /u [DLL file name]” and press Enter. This command will unregister the DLL file from your system.
Step 4: Go to the folder where the DLL file is located and delete it.
Step 5: Empty the Recycle Bin to permanently delete the DLL file from your computer.
Features of DLL Files
DLL files are essential components of a Windows operating system that provide functionality to various programs. Some of the features of DLL files include:
- They allow multiple programs to share the same code.
- They can be updated without affecting other programs that use them.
- They can be loaded into memory only when needed, saving system resources.
- They can be used by different versions of the same program.
Pros and Cons of Deleting DLL Files
Here are some pros and cons of deleting DLL files from your computer:
Pros:
- It can free up disk space on your computer.
- It can help to fix errors and system crashes caused by corrupted or outdated DLL files.
Cons:
- Deleting the wrong DLL file can cause system instability or even render your computer unusable.
- Some programs may not function properly if the DLL file they depend on is deleted.
Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table of some popular DLL file remover tools:
| Tool | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| CCleaner | Free and paid versions | Registry cleaner, file cleaner, startup manager, and more. |
| Glary Utilities | Free and paid versions | Registry cleaner, file cleaner, startup manager, and more. |
| Revo Uninstaller | Free and paid versions | Uninstall manager, file cleaner, startup manager, and more. |
FAQs
Q. Can I delete all DLL files from my computer?
No, you should only delete DLL files that are causing errors or system crashes. Deleting essential DLL files can cause system instability or even render your computer unusable.
Q. Can I recover deleted DLL files?
No, once you have deleted a DLL file and emptied the Recycle Bin, it cannot be recovered.
Q. Do I need to restart my computer after deleting DLL files?
No, you do not need to restart your computer after deleting DLL files. However, if you have uninstalled a program that was using the DLL file, you may need to restart your computer to complete the uninstallation process.
Conclusion
Deleting DLL files can be a useful way to fix errors and system crashes caused by corrupted or outdated DLL files. However, it is important to be careful when deleting DLL files, as deleting the wrong file can cause system instability or even render your computer unusable. If you are not comfortable deleting DLL files manually, you can use a DLL file remover tool to do it for you.
