How to fix RunDLL32.exe?

A RunDLL32.exe is a process that actually supports the many DLL files on your computer. In virtually all applications on your computer, you’ll find .dll files, or files from the Dynamic Link Library. These files hold various pieces of logic and information that is shared between multiple applications. The RunDLL32.exe program makes all of the .dll files work. If the process goes a bit haywire, however, you’ll need to restore it correctly.

A Corrupted RunDLL32.exe

You wouldn’t intentionally corrupt the RunDLL32.exe program, but it can be corrupted by a virus or malware of some sort. Usually, you don’t realize the program isn’t working correctly until you get an error message about the program missing when you’re doing a mundane task such as changing your clock settings. The message might read, “rundll32.exe not found”. Frustrating to receive, but fortunately restoring this program is simple if you have your Windows CD at hand.

Before you begin restoring the RunDLL32 file, you’ll want to be sure that you’ve cleaned your computer thoroughly. Any malware or viruses still on your computer can cause additional problems once you restore the damaged file. Be sure to clean and then protect your computer completely before moving forward with the restoration.

Restoring RunDLL32.exe

Your first step to restore the program is to locate your Windows CD-ROM disk that came with your computer when you purchased it. Once you’ve found the CD, place it in the CD-ROM drive of your computer.

Click on Start and then click on Run.

In the Run box, type in CMD to open the Command window.

In the Command window that opens, type or copy and paste in the following command:

expand x:\i386\rundll32.ex_ c:\windows\system32\rundll32.exe

Be sure to insert the letter of your CD ROM drive where there is an X in the line above. For example, most individuals have their CD-ROM drive labeled as D, so the command line to cut and paste or type into the CMD box is as follows:

expand d:\i386\rundll32.ex_ c:\windows\system32\rundll32.exe

Be sure that you leave a space between the underscore and the c:\windows portion of the line. This is essential if the command is to work properly.

Once you’ve typed in the command line fully and double-checked it for errors, hit Enter and the program will run.

When the program has finished running you’ll see confirmation in the form of additional lines of code.

Now that the program is properly installed and corrected, you’ll need to remove the Windows XP disk from the CD-ROM drive and restart the computer. Once restarted, the computer and specifically the programs utilizing the RunDLL32.exe processes will be working smoothly again.