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Shell32.dll: What Is It & How to Fix this Error

You should use a dedicated DLL fixing tool to resolve such issues

5 min. read

Updated onApril 2, 2024

updated onApril 2, 2024

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Key notes

The Shell32.dll is a system-related DLL responsible for many essential functions within the Windows operating system. Notably, the Shell32.dll file is connected to several other DLL files, so it is pretty important, and the Shell32.dll error requires your attention.

Luckily, we have compiled a list of solutions that have helped several users resolve the Shell32.dll error issue at their end. This is one of the most common DLL missing errors on Windows 10 PCs. Follow the guide to fix the problem.

How can I fix the Shell32.dll missing error?

1. Use a specialized tool

Since the Shell32.dll file is an important Windows system-related DLL, you need to replace it inside the Windows system folder.

However, that isn’t a viable choice for users who aren’t that professional because any wrong move could corrupt the OS or brick their PCs. In such a case, we suggest you use one of thebest DLL fixing tools.

2. Register the DLL

Chances are, because of a third-party application or program, the Shell32.dll file was unregistered or replaced. You can apply the above command, re-register the Shell32.dll file, and fix the error associated with the DLL file.

3. Fix corrupt system files

Corrupt system files are often the reason behind several DLL file errors on your Windows 11 PC. You can easily resolve it by using the SFC and DISM commands.

This solution wassuggested by one useron the Microsoft forums and has helped several users resolve the Shell32.dll was not found or Shell32.dll is missing error.

4. Repair the damaged registry key

Damaged registry keys can also cause the Shell32.dll was not found error. Because residual files can often conflict with the important files and cause multiple issues on your PC.

So, we suggest you look at our guide, which lists some of thebest registry cleanersfor Windows 10. Our experts have tested all the listed registry cleaners to provide you with the correct information about the tools.

For Windows 11 users, we also have a similar guide that lists some of thebest registry cleaning toolsthat you can opt for to fix Shell32.dll errors.

5. Scan your PC for virus

If your PC is infected with a virus or malware, then not only will you come across Shell32.dll not found or associated with errors, but your PC performance will also go down.

You should run a scan frequently to check if your PC is protected. We have a list of some of the best antivirus tools to use to safeguard your PC.

Keep in mind that the Shell32.dll file is a critical Windows OS DLL file that ensures that other related DLLs work smoothly without any issues.

The primary function of this DLL file is to open and handle web pages and other files on the PC. It manages the Windows Shell API (Application Programming Interface) functions.

You will come across several error messages related to the Shell32.dll file. Some of these are listed below:

The Shell32.dll file is missing, or the Shell32.dll not found error could be caused by a corrupt registry, corrupt system files, malware or virus infection, incorrect installation, etc.

That is it from us in this guide. For users facing theDLL missing error on Windows 11, you can refer to the solutions in our guide to quickly resolve the problem.

We also have a guide on how tohandle errors related to inetcpl.cpl, so don’t miss it.

Feel free to let us know in the comments below which one of the above solutions fixed the Shell32.dll not found and other errors.

Shell32.dll: What Is It & How to Fix this Error#

How can I fix the Shell32.dll missing error?#

1. Use a specialized tool#

2. Register the DLL#

3. Fix corrupt system files#

4. Repair the damaged registry key#

5. Scan your PC for virus#