A DLL (Dynamic Link Library) consists of instructions to operate hardware units, system, utility, and application software.
A DLL is a type of executable file that cannot be executed manually. Only other executable files such as .exe or .dll can execute it.
Typically, Microsoft Operating Systems do not allow users to view .dll files (or various other system files for that matter) until they opt to “Show hidden files and folders.” To do this:
- Press <Win>+E to open a Windows Explorer window.
- Press <Alt>+T to drop the “Tools” menu down.
- Press <Alt>+O to open “Folder Options.”
- Click the “View” tab.
- Ensure that “Show hidden files and folders” is selected.
- Click “OK.”
Alternately, use a third party application such as RegDllView to generate a list of all of the registered .dll files on the computer. Further functionality allows users to unregister .dll files no longer needed on their system. Be very careful when doing this.
Related Articles