Firefox Failed to Start Because Xul.dll Was Not Found
The xul.dll file plays a vital role in controlling how Firefox works. Without it, Firefox crashes and displays error messages when you try to start the browser. Issues with the xul.dll are caused by conflicts with third-party programs and damage from malware. Solving the xul.dll problem quickly and safely maximizes Firefox Web browsing.
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Symptoms
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When you double-click the Firefox icon, the "xul.dll not found" error message pop ups on the screen if Firefox has crashed and is incapable of launching. This problem usually occurs if the the xul.dll file responsible for controlling and improving Web browsing speed is missing, damaged or corrupt.
Causes
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The xul.dll is a file necessary for Firefox to run. It's automatically installed when you install the browser. Damages to the file may be caused by malware, such as Trojans and viruses. Applications such as firewalls and antivirus programs may also prevent the file from executing if Firefox isn't on the application's list of programs allowed to connect to the Internet.
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Reinstallation
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If the xul.dll error message continues to pop up, uninstalling Firefox and reinstalling a fresh copy re-installs the missing file. If you open "Programs and Features" from your computer's Control Panel, Windows displays a list of installed programs. Click "Firefox" and click the "Uninstall" button to remove the browser from your computer. After uninstalling the browser, remove its setup folder from the Program Files folder in Windows Explorer to delete user settings. When the uninstall process completes, download the latest version of Firefox (firefox.com).
Recommendations
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Adding Firefox to a firewall or antivirus program's list of applications that are allowed to connect to the Internet decreases the risk of running into xul.dll error messages. This process varies with different security tools, so refer to your program's documentation for setup information.
Tips
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Damages to the xul.dll file are often caused by malware, so running antivirus and spyware tools is necessary to combat dangerous threats. If Firefox is already on your security program's list of applications allowed to access the Internet, run system scans to delete malware. In addition, updating security programs installs the latest virus definition lists and security updates to combat new and existing threats. Run frequent scans to ensure that your computer is malware-free.
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