When you run a word processor, it might have to execute a specific task that it doesn't have the code for. DLL files contain numerous functions, classes, and variables that other programs can use as and when the need arises.

Libraries are independent programs that can be used over and over again by a programmer or another program.ĭLL files are a special implementation of these kinds of libraries. The initialism stands for 'Dynamic Link Libraries,' and to better understand what a DLL file is, we need to establish a good grip on what a 'library' is in computer terms.Ī library on your computer is a collection of reusable code. While you can easily search online to fix a DLL-related issue, it does prompt the question: what is a DLL file, and why does your computer care when one is missing? So, let's start with a brief introduction about DLL files and how they fit into the whole Windows environment.įirst up, let's explore what 'DLL' stands for. And maybe that's what happened to you, too. The first time most people encounter the term 'DLL' is when a program fails to open due to a missing DLL file.

What is a dll file?