In order to delete corrupt or no longer necessary DLLs, a simple but precise procedure must be followed: configure the computer to show hidden and system files, unregister the DLL within the system via the command prompt and proceed with the deletion file manual. DLLs or dynamic-link libraries (from English Dynamic-Link Library) are files that store code that can be shared and used by multiple programs - for example, pop-up windows. Unfortunately, some modern viruses are spread under the guise of DLL files, which makes them difficult to detect and eliminate. Remember that it is possible to delete a DLL file from older operating systems, such as Windows XP and Windows Vista, but that on more modern ones, such as Windows 8 and Windows 10, there is no reliable way to do so.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Locate the DLL Files
Step 1. Access the "Start" menu
Step 2. Select the "Control Panel" item
By default, there should be a direct link to the Windows Control Panel within the "Start" menu.
Alternatively, you can choose the "Run" item, type the string "control panel" in the "Open" field and press the "OK" button
Step 3. Select the "Folder Options" icon
This way you will be able to change some characteristics of the appearance and functionality of the folders.
Step 4. Go to the "View" tab at the top of the "Folder Options" window
Step 5. Select the item "Show hidden files and folders"
This will reveal a wide range of hidden system files and folders, including DLLs.
Step 6. Make sure that both "Hide extensions for known file types" and "Hide protected system files" are unchecked
At this point, you should be able to view the DLL files and their extensions.
Step 7. Press the "Apply" and "OK" buttons successively
This way you can be sure that the new changes are saved and applied.
Step 8. Open the internet browser of your choice
Step 9. Perform a search using the string "DLL scanner" and your usual search engine
Unless you know exactly what the corrupt DLL files are, which then need to be deleted, you will need to use special software that can detect them for you.
There are two excellent alternatives to "DLL scanner", both of which can be used without problems: "DLL Files Fixer" and "DLL Archive"
Step 10. Download the program you want to use to locate the DLL files to delete
Take note of the folder where you save the installation file because at the end you will have to proceed with the installation of the program on your computer.
Step 11. Install the program of your choice by double clicking on the file you just downloaded
The installation procedure varies according to the product and the version chosen, simply follow the instructions that appear on the screen.
Step 12. After the installation is complete, run the program
Step 13. When the scan is complete, review the results
The program should show the list of corrupt or fake DLL files and their paths. At this point, you can use this information to deregister these items and delete them from the system.
Part 2 of 2: De-register and Delete DLL Files
Step 1. Navigate to the folder where the DLL file to be deleted is stored
This way you can be sure that the current directory you are in matches the one where the DLL file is saved.
If you need to delete multiple DLL files, chances are they aren't all in the same folder
Step 2. Access the "Start" menu
Step 3. Select the "Run" item
Step 4. In the "Open" field of the "Run" window, type the command "cmd" (without quotes), then press the "OK" button
This will bring up a command prompt window that will allow you to interact with the operating system via the command line.
If you are using Windows Vista or later, you need to start Command Prompt as a system administrator. To do this, choose the "Programs" item in the "Start" menu, select the "Accessories" option, then choose the "Command Prompt" icon with the right mouse button and then select the "Run as administrator" item
Step 5. Type the command "cd" (without quotes) into the Command Prompt window, then press the Enter key
This will automatically redirect the command line of the Command Prompt window to the current directory where the DLL file to be deleted is stored.
Step 6. Type the command "regsvr32 -u [filename].dll" (without quotation marks) into the Command Prompt window
In this way the registration of the DLL file in question within the system will be canceled. Replace the [filename].dll parameter with the name of the item you want to delete. Remember to include the file extension as well.
Step 7. To proceed with de-registering the DLL in question, press the Enter key
At this point, the indicated DLL file is ready to be removed.
Step 8. Locate the DLL file inside the folder where it is stored
Step 9. Select the DLL library with the right mouse button, then choose the "Delete" option
In this way the chosen item will be moved to the system recycle bin from where you can permanently delete it.
Advice
- Before proceeding with the deletion of such delicate files, it is always best to create a new system restore point.
- On modern operating systems, robust anti-virus should always be installed as a protection against viruses and malware hidden inside DLL files.
Warnings
- In a normal Windows system, many DLL files are an integral part of the operating system. Deleting the wrong DLL could cause your entire computer to deadlock, so don't delete any of these files unless you know their exact function.
- Never delete or modify system files on a computer that is not your property.
