How to Remove Old DLL Files That Are Still Running

DLL files are executable files that are used by programs to perform a function or provide data. Some DLL files are used by several applications concurrently, while others are specific to a certain program. Most of the time, DLL files are removed when a program is uninstalled from the computer. However, if it was a shared DLL or the program was malicious, such as spyware or a virus, DLL files might remain and could still be running on the system, taking up space and interfering with other applications.

Instructions

1. Determine that the DLL files are malicious or unnecessary before going forward. Removing a DLL file that pertains to the operating system or another program could cause the application or system itself to stop functioning.

2. 

   Press the "Start" button and click "Run." In the "Open" box, type "cmd" and click the "OK" button. The command prompt window will open.

3. 

   Type "cd" and then press the space bar. Type in the complete file path of the DLL file. Press the "Enter" key.

4. 

   Type "regsvr32 /u" followed by a space and then the DLL name. Press the "Enter" key. This will unregister the DLL file.

5. Run the antivirus and spyware removal programs on the computer to rid it of any remaining malicious files.

Resources

• DLL Repair Tool Reviews and Downloads