.dll files

Common questions

How do I open a .dll file?

On Windows use Loaded automatically by programs (not opened directly); on macOS use Not applicable — Windows libraries; on Linux use Wine (when running Windows software). Shared Windows code that programs load — not something you open or run.

What is a .dll file?

Dynamic Link Library. A DLL holds functions and resources that several Windows programs can share, loaded on demand rather than launched. Double-clicking does nothing useful, and a "missing DLL" error means a program cannot find one it expects — the fix is reinstalling that program or the relevant Microsoft Visual C++ redistributable, never downloading a loose DLL from a website, which is a well-worn malware trick..

Related pages

• .exe — Windows Executable A Windows program. It runs code, which is why it is also the classic way to get
• .apk — Android Application Package An Android app installer — a zip of code and resources.
• .msi — Windows Installer Package A structured Windows installer that the OS installs and can cleanly uninstall.
• .sh — Shell Script A text file of Unix shell commands, run by bash, zsh or sh.
• .deb — Debian Software Package The installer format for Debian, Ubuntu and their derivatives.
• .jar — Java Archive A zip of compiled Java classes — a library, or a runnable program.
• .bat — Windows Batch File A plain-text list of Command Prompt commands that runs when you double-click it.
• .pkg — macOS Installer Package A macOS installer that runs a guided setup, rather than a drag-and-drop app.
• .ps1 — PowerShell Script A script for Windows PowerShell — Microsoft's modern automation shell.
• .ipa — iOS Application Archive An iPhone or iPad app package — installable only through Apple-sanctioned channe
• .rpm — RPM Package The installer format for Fedora, Red Hat, openSUSE and their relatives.
• .appimage — AppImage Portable Application A whole Linux application in one file that runs without being installed.