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FIX: Skype DXVA2.DLL is missing on Windows PCs

This Skype error is usually caused by a recent app update

3 min. read

Updated onMarch 18, 2024

updated onMarch 18, 2024

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If your main operating system is stillWindows XP, and you’re using Skype on it, you might receive anerror messagethat saysSkypefailedto load library dxva2.dll, after the most recent update.

Alternatively, the error might readdxva2.dll is missing from computer file location.

As you can probably imagine, when thiserror messageoccurs,Skype doesn’t startand you’re unable to sign in.

It’s important to know that this issue was not reported on newer versions of Windows. But if it would be, the solutions would probably be the same.

In this article, we’re going to show you the steps to troubleshoot this error, while also explaining why it occurs.

How can I restore the Skype dxva2.dll missing file?

1. Run a third-party DLL fixer

With each update that Microsoft brings to Skype, it’s likely that it becomes incompatible with your OS version.

But with the rightspecialized software, you can make sure that such system errors are quickly fixed by performing this action automatically.

2. Install .NET Framework 4

With the newer Skype version, the app uses DirectX Video Acceleration 2.0, which requires.NET Framework 4.0installed in order to function normally.

Since a lot of users (especiallyWindows XPusers), don’t have .NET 4.0 installed, they get thiserror message.

The dxva2.dll file was introduced onWindows Vista, so it’s not installed onolder systems by default, and you have to download .NET Framework 4.0 to have this DLLfile.

You can download it from theofficial Microsoft location. Afterward, you should be able to sign in to Skype normally again.

3. Disable your antivirus

Your antivirus and firewall software may block yourSkype.exefile, preventing the tool from launching. Disable your security software and test if you can useSkypein this way.

Since we don’t recommend running Windows without adequate protection, especially if the system is no longer supported by Microsoft, you should considerswitching to a different antivirus solution.

Many professional tools can automatically repair this type of error and provide your computer with stronger and more secure protection.

4. ResetSkypesettings

5. ReinstallSkype

If nothing worked, you should try to reinstallSkype. This solution is usually the last resort and fixes many technical issues.

So these were the steps to restore your Skype app functionality on older Windows operating systems.

We also strongly recommend that youupgrade to Windows 10as soon as possible to avoid similar events in the future.

If you’re concerned that your device can’t support Windows 10 because of resources, you might also want to consideran affordable new laptop, with just the apps & programs you need.

FIX: Skype DXVA2.DLL is missing on Windows PCs#

How can I restore the Skype dxva2.dll missing file?#

1. Run a third-party DLL fixer#

2. Install .NET Framework 4#

3. Disable your antivirus#

4. ResetSkypesettings#

5. ReinstallSkype#