This DLL file contains Windows Shell API functions and is therefore necessary for your computer to work properly, like to open files.
Shell32.dll Errors
There are several ways shell32.dll errors can show up on your computer. Here are some of the more common error messages:
Shell32.dll Not FoundThis application failed to start because shell32.dll was not found. Re-installing the application may fix this problem.Cannot find [PATH]\shell32.dllThe file shell32.dll is missing.Cannot start [APPLICATION]. A required component is missing: shell32.dll. Please install [APPLICATION] again.
These errors might appear while using or installing certain programs, when Windows starts or shuts down, or maybe even during a Windows installation. The context of the error is an important piece of information that will be helpful while solving the problem.
How to Fix Shell32.dll Errors
Need More Help?
If you’re not interested in fixing this problem yourself, see How Do I Get My Computer Fixed? for a full list of your support options, plus help with everything along the way like figuring out repair costs, getting your files off, choosing a repair service, and a lot more. If you suspect this, but you’ve already emptied the Recycle Bin, you may be able to recover the file with a free file recovery program. If the hardware fails any of your tests, replace the memory or replace the hard drive as soon as possible.
